Dr. Rienzi's Bio
MISSION Promote the lives of children and families with disabilities
EDUCATION
American Board of School Neuropsychology
Board Certification June 2006 - Diplomate Status
Texas Women’s University Office of Life Long Learning - Graduation May 2006
Post Doctoral Certificate - School Neuropsychology
Alliant International University, San Diego - Graduation May 2005
Doctorate of Psychology - School/Educational Psychology
National University, San Diego - Graduation June 2001
Master of Science, School Psychology, Pupil Personnel Service Credential
California State University, Chico – Graduation June 1999
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Child Development
PROFESSIONAL LICENSES
California Pupil Personnel Credential
California 30 Day Substitute Teaching Credential-CCTC
California Licensed Educational Psychologist (CA-LEP 2732)
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
School Neuropsychological Graduate Training Program, KIDS. INC (2021-2022) Clinical Supervisor/Mentor. Providing clinical supervision and mentoring post graduate student through their yearlong neuropsychology certificate program.
Colorado Special Education Advocacy (2021- Present) Provide special education advocacy to parents and families all throughout the state of Colorado. Working in person and virtually to expand services to families. Empowering families so that they may be an equal team member at the IEP meetings.
Brain Learning Psych Services: In fall 2020-Present, Brain Learning began providing psychoeducational assessments to school districts in San Diego County for Initial and Triennial special educational evaluations with the following school districts: La Mesa Spring Valley, Cajon Valley, Chula Vista Elementary, High Tech High, Escondido Elementary. Our work is efficient and collaborative.
Brain Learning-CALWORKS- Owner & Licensed Educational Psychologist (2019-present) Conduct Learning Disability Assessments to participants in the state Welfare to Work Refugee program through CalWorks. Provide neurocognitive, academic, and vocational strengths and weaknesses to participate for diagnosis and/or recommendations for case management guidance. Sonoma County, Lake County, and San Diego County.
Brain Learning Psychological Corporation - Owner & Licensed Educational Psychologist-LEP-2732 (2004-present)Neuropsychological & Psychoeducational assessments. Independent Educational Evaluations, Mental Health Assessments. Consultant to parents & school districts. Treatment of children with ADHD. Counseling and Coaching adults and students. Expert witness for Fair Hearing and Federal Court Cases.
Teacher Training Inclusion for students with differences and disabilities (2011-present) Provide free workshops to public and private schools in San Diego County to help teachers serve all learners. San Diego Catholic Schools, The Rock Academy, and La Mesa Christ Lutheran School,
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing- Board of Institutional Review- Program Reviewer (2014-2016)
Confirm that institutions are implementing programs aligned with Commission adopted standards. Participate in the initial institutional approval, initial program approval, program assessment, and accreditation site visits
San Diego State University - Adjunct Professor, School of Education, School Psychology PPS (2008-current) Lecturer for Behavior/Neuropsychological Course. Spring 2021: Developmental Neuropsychology
National University - Adjunct Professor, PPS School Psychology Graduate Program (2009-2012). Course: Human Neuropsychology.
Alliant International University - Adjunct Professor, Graduate School of Education (2009) Consultation Course for School Psychologists.
Chapman University/Brandman University, San Diego – Assistant Professor - School Psychology/School Counseling PPS Program (2002-2016) Advise & guide School Psychology students. Department Chair. Field supervisor and site supervisor for school psychology graduate interns. Teach curriculum design, mentor, ensure the oral and written competency of students and participation in faculty meetings. Oversee and support adjunct faculty, contribute to course scheduling, accreditation review (NCAT & CCT), update courses and class material as needed
Sweetwater Union High School District - District School Neuropsychologist/Psychologist Nonpublic Schools (2006-2013) Site administrator for special education department at Eastlake High School. Development of programs for students with special needs, individual and group counseling, responsible for implementation of IEPs, responsible for assessment and evaluation of students with suspected learning disabilities, coordinate section 504 plan meetings. Discipline responsibilities for students and staff. Development and implementation of supports and services for students with autism spectrum disorders; responsible for assessment and implementation of appropriate strategies for students with suspected neurological/neuropsychological conditions that impact learning. Responsible for hiring and evaluation of special education staff. Local Educational Agency (LEA) representative for all children placed in Non Public Schools (NPS). District Neuropsychologist, district trainer for special education teachers, parents and school nurses.
Chula Vista Elementary School District - Psychologist; Autism Psychologist (2004-2006)
Elementary Psychologist, GATE Coordinator, 504 Coordinator, District Autism Psychologist-consultant, direct and indirect support for students with autism. District Neuropsychologist. Developed TEACH, DTT, ABA and other structured teacher models and programs for children with autism. Evaluation of children with pre/post diagnosis of autism for educational program implementation.
San Dieguito Union High School District (2001-2004) School Psychologist
Torrey Pines High School, Diegueno Middle School, Carmel Valley Middle School - Providing consultation,
assessment, intervention, prevention, education, research and planning. Coordinator - Asperger’s Syndrome Social Intervention Program - Coastal Learning Academy - testified numerous times before court hearing officer on behavior and student’s educational needs.
Grossmont Union High School District - Substitute Teacher (2000-2001)
High school special education teacher - instructed severely handicapped students, mildly handicapped students and learning handicapped students. Worked with resource teacher to improve educational modalities.
Jamul-Dulzura Union School District - Substitute Teacher (2000-2001)
Teaching students from K-8 in regular and special education classes. Instructing students in reading groups, implementing behavior contracts and helping develop creative ideas to enhance learning in the classroom.
Vista Hill Foundation - Therapeutic Behavioral Specialist/Case Manager (1999-2000)
Implemented behavioral interventions, created positive behavior plans for home and school, conducted observations of antecedents and consequences of targeted behaviors, developed case management plan, provided family support and linkages to community resources, attended SST/IEP meetings, coordinated with multiple service providers, worked as a member of an interdisciplinary team. Conducted behavior/social skills group to at risk youth in school setting.
Youth Regional Treatment Center-SIHC - Resident Assistant III (1999-2000)
Conducted individual/group counseling for adolescent substance abuse program, provided support by attending AA meetings with residents, developed treatment plans for residents, created behavior management service plans, participated and learned Native American Indian cultural activities and ceremonies.
Chance House Boys Home - Direct Care Counselor (1997-1999)
Conducted individual counseling, coordinated and planned structured activities, administered and managed children's medication, provided behavior modification which included; redirection techniques, communication skills, personal boundaries and interpersonal social skills. Learned and used skills to detect physical and/or emotional problems with adolescent boys.
Tehama County Mental Health - Psychiatric Assistant (1991-1993)
Observed and recorded patient behavior, conducted relaxation exercises, observed patients to detect indications of abnormal physical/cognitive behavior, assisted patients with understanding and overcoming social and emotional problems, individual counseling, documentation of progress and entry/exit interviews.
LECTURES & PRESENTATIONS
2018-2021 Lectures & Presentations:
- The Lives of Children Online: Parent training on the effects of Social Media on Children: St. Martin Academy, Holy Trinity School, Our Lady of Grace School, St. Charles Borromeo Academy, Santee School District, St. John of the Cross Catholic School
- Educating Students with ADHD, ASD, and Anxiety and Depression: Teacher Training: St. Martin Academy, Holy Trinity School, Our Lady of Grace School, St. Charles Borromeo Academy, Santee School District, St. John of the Cross Catholic School, The Rock Academy, Christ Lutheran School, San Diego Christian School.
Haytasingh, R. ADHD and Educational considerations for Parents. National Alliance on Mental Illness: San Diego Ca. (June 2017)
Haytasingh, R. Neuropsychological Evaluations: what parents need to know. Exceptional Family Day (IEP). Handlrey Hotel San Diego, Ca. (April 2017)
Haytasingh, R. Raising Resilient Children: Exceptional Family Day (IEP). Handlrey Hotel San Diego, Ca. (March 2016)
Haytasingh, R & Cannon, L. Facilitating Independence for young adults with autism: Community Interface Services Vista, Ca (June 2015)
Haytasingh, R. Raising Resilient Children: Exceptional Family Day (IEP). Handlrey Hotel San Diego, Ca. (March 2015)
Haytasingh, R. Executive Function Disorders: Teacher Workshop. Excelsior Academy Non Public School San Diego, Ca. (November 2014)
Haytasingh, R. Executive Function Disorders: Teacher Workshop. San Diego County Teachers: Brandman University, San Diego, Ca. (February 2014)
Haytasingh, R. Specific Learning Disabilities: identification and support. St. Martin’s Academy (private school) La Mesa, Ca. (September 2014)
Haytasingh, R. Advanced Assessment of Specific Learning Disabilities. San Diego County School Psychologists: Brandman University, San Diego, Ca. (November 2013)
Haytasingh, R. Autism Spectrum Disorders: What School Nurses Need to Know. San Diego Unified School District Nurses: San Diego Unified School District, San Diego, Ca. (March 2013)
Haytasingh, R. Children with Seizure Disorders in the Schools. California Nurses Association Annual Conference. Town & Country Resort, San Diego, Ca. (February 2013)
Haytasingh, R. School Psychology: A Rewarding Profession. Psy Chi Undergraduate Organization. University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, Ca. (January 2013)
Haytasingh, R. School Neuropsychological Considerations for Students with Bipolar Disorder - Lecture presented at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, Ca. (January 2013)
Haytasingh, R. School Neuropsychological Considerations of Assessment - Lecture presented at San Diego Epilepsy Foundation Winter Meeting, San Diego, Ca. (December 2012)
Haytasingh, R. School Neuropsychological Considerations for Students with Seizure Disorders - Lecture presented at San Diego Epilepsy Foundation Yearly Meeting, San Diego, Ca. (October 2012)
Haytasingh, R. Continuous Performance Testing in Secondary Age Students with Disorders of Attention - Lecture presented at Psychologist Meeting, Chula Vista, Ca. (September 2012)
Haytasingh, R. Essentials of School Neuropsychological Assessment: Presentation to Special Education Directors - Chapman University, San Diego, Ca. (January 2012)
Haytasingh, R. Essentials of School Neuropsychological Assessment: Presentation to Educational Attorneys Chapman University, San Diego, Ca. (December 2011)
Haytasingh, R. Neuropsychology of the Adolescent Brain: Parenting in the 21st Century: Sweetwater School District Parent Education Series, Chula Vista, Ca. (November 2011)
Haytasingh, R. Secondary School Age Testing with Woodcock John Achievement Testing for Intervention: Sweetwater School District Special Education Teachers-Mild Moderate, Chula Vista, Ca. (October 2011)
Haytasingh, R. Current Research on Neuropsychology of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Educational Implications. Presentation to educators and parents at Sweetwater School District, Chula Vista, Ca. (September 2011)
Haytasingh, R. Reducing Anxiety in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Presentation to District Nurses - Sweetwater Union High School District, Chula Vista, Ca. (October 2010)
Haytasingh, R. “Raising Resilient Children.” Parent SELPA lecturer, Chula Vista, Ca. (September 2010)
Haytasingh, R. Adolescent Psychopathology: Cultural Considerations, Chapman University, San Diego, Ca. (2008)
Haytasingh, R. Clinical Case Presentation: Neuropsychology of Genetic Disorders: Encephalocele. Texas Women’s University (January 2005)
Haytasingh, R. Clinical Case Presentation: Neuropsychology of Malignancy in Brain Tumors. Texas Women’s University (May 2005)
Haytasingh, R. Autism: Educational Strategies & Supports. Chula Vista Elementary School District, Chula Vista, Ca. (October 2004)
Haytasingh, R. Asperger’s Syndrome-Understanding Cognitive Strengths & Limitations. Casillas Elementary School, Chula Vista, Ca. (September 2004)
Haytasingh, R. Teaching Adult Learners - From Brain to Practice, Chapman University, San Diego, Ca. (May 2004)
Haytasingh, R. Cognitive Assessment System: PASS Theory and Applications, San Dieguito Union High School District, Del Mar, Ca. (April 2003)
EXPERT WITNESS: DUE PROCESS HEARINGS
OAH Case no. 20218030787 : Student v. San Diego Unified School District.
OAH Case No. 2018030787: In the Matter of Parents on behalf of Student v. San Diego Unified School District.
OAH Case No. 2017010586: In the Matter of Parents on behalf of students v. Del Mar Unified School District.
OAH Case No. 201609042: In the Matter of Parents on behalf of the student vs. Huntington Beach City School District.
OAH Case No. 2015110012: In the Matter of Huntington Beach City School District v. Parents on behalf of STUDENT.
OAH Case NO. 2014030842 & 2014030046: in the matter of Parent(s) on behalf of STUDENT v. Spencer Valley Elementary School District-2014
OAH Case NO. 2013020661 & 2012120261: in the Matter of Parent(s) on behalf of STUDENT v. Poway Unified School District - 2013
OAH Case No. 2011040869: in the Matter of Parent(s) on behalf of STUDENT v. CAPISTRANO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT - 2011
OAH CASE NO. 2008100721: in the Matter of Parent(s) on behalf of STUDENT v. SWEETWATER UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT- 2008
OAH Case: in the Matter of Parent(s) on behalf of STUDENT v. SAN DIEGUITO HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT – 2003
RESEARCH INTERESTS:
Haytasingh, R. School Neuropsychological Assessment of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: San Diego County Association of School Psychologist Winter Newsletter. (2012)
A needs assessment for students with autism in the Chula Vista Elementary School District / (2005)
Thesis (Psy.D.) -- Alliant International University, Graduate School of Education, San Diego, Ca. 2005.
· Structured teaching in public schools
· Neuropsychological aspects of Asperger’s Syndrome
· Development of social clubs for students with autism spectrum disorders
· Shifting attention in children with autism spectrum disorders: Indicators for social deficits
· Psychopharmacology in pediatric populations: Implications for educators
ASSOCIATIONS
· Diplomate, American Board of School Neuropsychology, American Psychological Association
· National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
· National Academy of Neuropsychology, Professional Member
· California Association of School Psychologists
· American Psychological Association (APA)
BOARD MEMBERSHIP
· San Diego Association of School Psychologists (SANDCASP) - Board Member 2011-2014
· San Diego County Autism Society - Executive Director, Board of Directors 2013-2015
· San Diego Epilepsy Foundation’s Professional Advisory Board - 2013-current
· Brandman University Community Advisory Board - 2012-2017