Sarah Richie Ph.D

04/03/2026

So grateful to Liz Humphreys and the Mind What Matters team for having me as a guest on their podcast.

A truly meaningful discussion, sharing insights and resources for caregivers of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Personal experiences, diagnostics, treatments...and all things in between.

I hope our conversation offers support and encouragement to all listening, whatever the season of life and particular challenge to be navigated.

https://youtu.be/PDKHinTf6-A?si=k0S5uaMHM01HV0w9

https://www.wearemindwhatmatters.org

What does caregiving look like when your child has autism, ADHD, or a learning difference?In this episode of Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys sits down...

03/31/2026

Grateful to have been asked by the amazing folks at the Tennessee Association of Independent Schools to speak at the TAIS Neurodivergence-Informed Schools Conference at Vanderbilt University.

I had the privilege of leading two sessions — the first was aimed at helping parents (with educators & school administrators also joining) understand the brain-based complexities of executive functioning, the impact on daily life, and tools to support; the second was to help educators & learning specialists learn more about Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) and Deficient Emotional Self-Regulation (DESR) in association with ADHD, Autism, and students' general social-emotional functioning.

Both conversations reinforced something I see every day: when parents and educators better understand how a child’s brain works, everything changes. Support becomes more effective, communication improves and students are given the tools they need to succeed — both in and out of the classroom.

I’m always so encouraged by rooms filled with educators and families who are committed to learning, asking thoughtful questions and showing up for their students in meaningful ways.

Thank you to TAIS for hosting such an impactful conference to ensure neurodiverse learners are better understood across our school communities.
Looking forward to continuing these important conversations.

02/20/2026

Grateful to have been part of the recent VIP Dinner & Conversation hosted by Brightmont Academy at the Buckhead Club in Atlanta, GA.

It truly was a meaningful evening connecting with fellow professionals who are deeply committed to supporting students not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. Spaces like this — where clinicians, educators, special education attorneys, advocates, and parents sit at the same table — are where real collaboration begins.
Brightmont Academy’s model of focused, individualized instruction designed to meet students where they are, continues to make a tangible difference for learners who need a more personalized path.

Thank you to my dear friend, Aisha Walker , MBA, and the entire Brightmont team for the invitation and for creating an evening centered on connection, shared purpose and student success. I’m always encouraged when strong community partners come together to support the whole child.

Looking forward to continued collaboration ahead.

02/18/2026

I’m proud to serve as the Platinum sponsor of the 2026 RISE Webinar Series hosted by International Dyslexia Association (Tennessee Branch).

Supporting local organizations like IDA Tennessee matters deeply to me. When we invest in community-based, research-driven education initiatives, we strengthen the support systems around our students. Real change happens locally when educators, clinicians and families learn together and apply what works.

LANGUAGE LINKS: The Overlap of Dyslexia, DLD, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia & ADHD highlights something I see every day in practice - our students rarely fit neatly into one category. Understanding how these learning differences intersect is essential to providing the right support at the right time.

📅 Session 2: February 21, 2026 — Seats still available!

This session will explore:
• Evidence-based strategies for supporting students with co-occurring dyslexia and dyscalculia
• Practical guidance for math and reading intervention in K–5
• Research-backed recommendations for students with reading and attention (ADHD) challenges

If you’re an educator, interventionist, administrator, therapist, researcher or parent, this series offers meaningful insights you can apply immediately.

Thank you to those who joined on February 7, and if you haven’t registered yet, I hope you’ll join us on February 21.

Together, we can better understand the overlap and better support the whole child.











Tennessee Branch of the International Dyslexia Association

02/17/2026

I’m looking forward to speaking at the Tennessee Association of Independent Schools (TAIS) Neurodivergence-Informed Schools Mini-Conference at Vanderbilt University on February 25, 2026.

My session, “When It Lands Differently Than You’d Hoped: The Complexities of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and Deficient Emotional Self-Regulation,” dives into the neurological and emotional experiences that shape so many students’ lives and offers insight into how educators can respond with clarity, compassion and skill.

This well-loved TAIS program brings together emerging research from Vanderbilt’s Roberts Academy & Dyslexia Center with real-world practices from schools across Tennessee. Attendees will explore student-centered design, effective math and language interventions, behavior supports and evidence-based approaches to anxiety and processing needs.

If you’re a teacher, learning specialist, counselor, school psychologist, dean, or academic leader, this is a powerful opportunity to deepen your understanding of neurodivergence and strengthen whole-school culture.

📍 Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 📅 February 25, 2026
🎟️ Pricing varies by date and membership; Vanderbilt students receive discounted rates.

Learn more about the conference and the full TAIS Mini-Conference Series through Spring 2025. https://tais.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_jevents&task=icalrepeat.detail&evid=364&Itemid=175&year=2026&month=02&day=25&title=neurodivergence-informed-schools-mini-conference&uid=7d96acc17ace9f76589902ab325a386c

01/20/2026

I'm excited to announce that I’ll be speaking at the Tennessee Association of Independent Schools (TAIS) Family Partners Seminar on Executive Functioning!

We’ll dive into how brain regions work together, the effects of development and environment, and practical strategies for parents to support executive functioning.

Investing our time and shared experiences to gain insights and learn tools for supporting your child's growth!

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, February 25
🕒 Time: 8:30-9:30 a.m. CST
📍Location: Vanderbilt University

Attendance is free specifically for TAIS member school families.

👉 Register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/qp4kp7z/lp/98732426-d6d9-42c6-858d-6090f7cea25c

Tennessee Association of Independent Schools

01/14/2026

🌟 Happy 2026! This year, I am committed to connecting with leaders in our community for important dialogue about improving access to certified structured literacy specialists (evidence-based intervention grounded in the science of reading) and assistive technology supports for TN children and young adults with dyslexia and other commonly associated neurodevelopmental disorders I see every day.

On January 9th, I had the honor of attending a dinner at Southall Farm & Inn for U.S. Senator Sen. Marsha Blackburn Marsha Blackburn with TN State Senate Majority Leader Senator Jack Johnson , TN State Representative Jake McCalmon (and wife Rachelle McCalmon, a preschool teacher), and Williamson County Judge Deanna Johnson. We engaged in meaningful conversations about the challenges facing TN children who have extraordinary talents but learn differently. I wholeheartedly believe our leaders want to understand the brain-based complexities and necessary supports to ensure students thrive.

Let’s continue our dedication to working together to benefit the children and families of TN! 💪✨

01/13/2026

Excited to sponsor this great upcoming virtual series of speakers assembled by our amazing IDA-TN! Please join us!! International Dyslexia Association

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/izLPpwb/RISE2026

LANGUAGE LINKS: the Overlap of Dyslexia, DLD, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, and ADHD

12/18/2025

Closing Out the Year With Gratitude for Service & Community

As we look forward to 2026, I’m reflecting with gratitude on the organizations I’ve been honored to partner with and support — especially here in our Volunteer State, where service and compassion run deep.

These nonprofits provide essential care and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and neurodevelopmental differences, along with service to the dedicated families who work tirelessly to get the guidance and support they need to help their loved ones thrive.

As a neuropsychologist, my mission aligns closely with theirs. For 15+ years, my goal has been to provide the highest level of understanding of an individual’s strengths and needs through comprehensive neuropsych evaluations and brain-based interpretation — and these amazing organizations help ensure the individuals and families I work with have the support to grow, connect, and thrive in daily life.

Different roles, one shared purpose: building a community where every person feels understood and valued.

I’m grateful for the families I serve and the nonprofits that strengthen our community every day.

Wishing everyone a joyful and hopeful holiday season. ✨

Best Buddies Tennessee Barbara Bush Foundation BrightStone Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee The Mustard Seed

11/17/2025

Back from another wonderful annual Reading, Literacy & Learning Conference hosted by the International Dyslexia Association! Being part of such an inspiring event, alongside other passionate IDA-TN board members, reinforces our mission to support literacy and learning for all.

I’m grateful to have connected with so many different specialties, parent-led groups, and fellow advocates. It's so important to collaborate and share our insights on how we can truly make a difference in the lives of those with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and ADHD/executive dysfunction. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for literacy! 📚✨

11/11/2025

🌟 A March Toward Inclusion: Celebrating Sam Davis on Veterans Day 🇺🇸

Today, we honor not only our brave veterans but also the inspiring stories of courage and community that emerge from our own backyard.

On this special day, Franklin High School student Sam Davis, a remarkable teen with autism and proud member of the JROTC program, took part in the Franklin Veterans Day Parade. His journey reflects perseverance, inclusion, and the power of community support.

Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Sam has worked tirelessly to overcome challenges, thanks to the unwavering support of his family, teachers, and peers. With thoughtful accommodations, including sensory-friendly headphones and dedicated assistance from Cadet Manuel Rizo and CSM(R) Daniel R. Moore, Sam has fully embraced his role in the JROTC, participating in drills, events, and ceremonies with pride.

As his neuropsychologist for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how early intervention and support can transform lives. Sam having the courage and confidence to march today is incredibly moving. It’s a testament to how the right support at the right time can help every child reach their potential.

Sam’s family shared, “He is so proud to be a part of the JROTC battalion at FHS, and he knows how much Sergeant Major Moore believes in him. This group has embraced Sam as one of their own, helping him shine. Carrying the American and POW flags at home games fills him with pride, especially knowing the military legacy in his family. True inclusion doesn’t just help Sam; it uplifts everyone around him.”

Let’s continue to celebrate and support our community’s journey toward inclusion. Happy Veterans Day!

11/11/2025

Today, we honor not only our brave veterans but also the inspiring stories of courage and community that emerge from our own backyard.

On this special day, Franklin High School student Sam Davis, a remarkable teen with autism and proud member of the JROTC program, took part in the Franklin Veterans Day Parade. His journey reflects perseverance, inclusion, and the power of community support.

Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Sam has worked tirelessly to overcome challenges, thanks to the unwavering support of his family, teachers, and peers. With thoughtful accommodations, including sensory-friendly headphones and dedicated assistance from Cadet Manuel Rizo and CSM(R) Daniel R. Moore, Sam has fully embraced his role in the JROTC, participating in drills, events, and ceremonies with pride.

As his neuropsychologist for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how early intervention and support can transform lives. Sam having the courage and confidence to march today is incredibly moving. It’s a testament to how the right support at the right time can help every child reach their potential.

Sam’s family shared, “He is so proud to be a part of the JROTC battalion at FHS, and he knows how much Sergeant Major Moore believes in him. This group has embraced Sam as one of their own, helping him shine. Carrying the American and POW flags at home games fills him with pride, especially knowing the military legacy in his family. True inclusion doesn’t just help Sam; it uplifts everyone around him.”

Let’s continue to celebrate and support our community’s journey toward inclusion. Happy Veterans Day!