Annalise Puentes,

Licensed Educational Psychologist

Ed.S., LEP #4244, NCSP, ABSNP
Co‑Owner of EmpowerED Educational Psychology Services

Helping You Get Clear Answers

If your child is struggling with learning, focus, or behavior, and you are not getting clear answers, you are not alone.

I work with children and teens when school has become confusing, stressful, or discouraging to uncover what’s really going on. At EmpowerED, my focus is on thorough school neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations that help make sense of how your child’s brain works and what they need to thrive.

I specialize in helping with:
Concerns about learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia
Attention and executive functioning needs, including ADHD
Autism and related social, communication, and behavior differences
General behavior challenges at school or home
Psychoeducational Evaluations
School Neuropsychological Evaluations
Independent Educational
Evaluations (IEEs)
IEP Consulting & School Meeting Support

Putting The Puzzle Pieces Together

I am especially drawn to the “solving the puzzle” part of this work. I love taking all the pieces of information we gather and using them to figure out exactly what is going on for your child and what changes will make the biggest difference for them at school and at home.

From there, I work with you and your child’s team to create plans that are realistic and genuinely supportive, not cookie‑cutter.

I have experience with students from ages 3 through 22 in public and private schools, homeschool settings, and residential facilities.

Curious, Nonjudgmental, & On Your Team

Being inquisitive is my nature. I lead with curiosity and questions rather than assumptions. This keeps our work centered on your child and your family's unique experience. My first step is always to listen.
Families can expect that I will:

Listen carefully to your
story and your concerns

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Believe you and validate
your experiences

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Build trust and a relationship
with your child

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Look closely at both areas of
concern and areas of strength

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Put the pieces together into a
clear, understandable picture

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My hope is that you leave our work together feeling more grounded,
more informed, and more confident about what to do next at school and at home.

Why I Love This Work

I love my job! Kids are so genuine and engaging, and I truly enjoy sitting with them one-on-
one and getting to know how they think, feel, and learn.

My favorite moments are when parents, teachers, and I can finally say, “Now this makes
sense,” and start moving toward a plan that fits the student. I also believe that when we
empower students through education, we build a better world for everyone. That’s why I find
my work with learners so fulfilling.

My Own Bumpy Path Through School

As an adult, I love learning and deeply value education. As a kid and adolescent, it was not
always smooth. I struggled with anxiety and panic, needed tutoring in math, got suspended in
high school, and failed classes in college.

Because of that history, I have a lot of empathy for students and families who are trying to
navigate school, learning, and behavior while facing real hurdles. I never assume things are
simple, and I know there are many different paths through school and into adulthood.

Honoring Your Values with Expert Guidance

There is no single 'right' way to grow and learn. Every child and family brings their own unique
strengths and perspectives, and I don't expect you or your child to fit a mold. I am here to:
  • Listen and learn from you before I give recommendations
  • Respect your family’s values, culture, and goals
  • Offer ideas that feel collaborative rather than prescriptive
I hope you experience me as someone who is by your side as you move through this process,
not someone who is judging from the outside.

Training That Grounds My Work

Behind the scenes, I am continually deepening my understanding of how the brain, learning, and behavior fit together.
Education
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (B.A.), Concentration in Therapeutic and Community Psychology, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, CA

  • Master of Arts in Educational Psychology (M.A.), Chapman
University, Orange, CA

  • Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology (Ed.S.), Chapman University, Orange, CA

Licenses and credentials
  • Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology (ABSNP)

  • Licensed Educational
Psychologist (LEP) #4244

  • Nationally Certified School
Psychologist (NCSP) #39835

  • Pupil Personnel Services
Credential (P.P.S.)

Additional training and
recognition
  • ProACT (Professional Assault Crisis Training) district trainer, focusing on understanding behavior, de‑escalating crises, and intervening safely

  • CASP Outstanding School
Psychologist Award, Region 1, 2016