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  • Author:

    Megan Gierka, Ed.D.

  • Level: 

    Foundational

  • CREDIT(S)

    1

  • Video

    1 hour

Improving Literacy 

In this episode, Dr. Megan Gierka, senior content developer at the AIM Institute, joins Dr. Ray Christner and Paul Wagner for a compelling discussion on the intersection of literacy development and mental health. Dr. Gierka highlights how early reading struggles can lead to long-term emotional, academic, and socioeconomic challenges, underscoring the critical need for early identification and structured literacy instruction. Through evidence-based insights and real-world applications, she offers practical strategies for clinicians, educators, and families to support struggling readers. This episode bridges clinical and educational practice, equipping mental health professionals with the tools to recognize literacy difficulties, advocate for effective interventions, and collaborate with schools to promote positive outcomes. It is an essential resource for professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of literacy-related issues.

Course Objectives:

1. Analyze the relationship between early literacy development and long-term mental health outcomes.
2. Evaluate the research supporting structured literacy interventions and their implementation in educational settings.
3. Formulate collaborative strategies for mental health professionals and educators to support children with reading difficulties.
4. Differentiate between evidence-based universal screening tools and ineffective literacy assessments.

Megan Gierka, Ed.D.,

Megan Gierka, Ed.D., is a senior content developer at the AIM Institute for Learning and Research, specializing in evidence-based literacy practices and educational advocacy. A former reading specialist and literacy coach, she works with schools across the country and has provided testimony on literacy policy at the state level. Dr. Gierka’s work explores the intersection of structured literacy, equity, and student mental health, offering practical, research-informed guidance for clinicians and educators committed to improving outcomes for all learners.
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Psyched to Practice, LLC, is approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) to offer continuing professional development (CPDs) for school psychologists.  Psyched to Practice, LLC, maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 

Other mental health and education professionals are welcome to attend our webinars, workshops, and courses. Participants will receive a continuing education certificate upon completion. We encourage individuals to consult their respective licensing or accrediting boards to determine eligibility for continuing education credit within their professional field. 

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Psyched to Practice, LLC, is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Psyched to Practice, LLC, maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 
Psyched to Practice, LLC, is approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) to offer continuing professional development (CPDs) for school psychologists. Psyched to Practice, LLC, maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 
Other mental health and education professionals are welcome to attend our webinars, workshops, and courses. Participants will receive a continuing education certificate upon completion. We encourage individuals to consult their respective licensing or accrediting boards to determine eligibility for continuing education credit within their professional field.

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