Choosing the right advocate isn't about finding the "best" one, it's about finding someone whose working style fits your needs, personality, and goals. That's why we introduced the Working Style section on every advocate profile. It helps you see how an advocate typically collaborates, communicates, and approaches school teams before you ever book a consultation.
Below, you'll learn what each style means, and which one might be best for your situation.
The Five Working Style Dimensions
1. Collaboration Style
How much do you want to lead versus having your advocate take the reins?
Independent Advisor
This advocate takes charge of communication, drafts correspondence, and manages meetings with minimal input.
Best For
Parents who feel overwhelmed, short on time, or need a confident voice to manage school discussions.
Pros
- Saves you time and energy.
- Keeps processes moving quickly.
Things to Keep in Mind
- You may not be involved in every small decision.
- Some parents prefer more back-and-forth.
Team Collaborator
This advocate works closely with you on every decision, brainstorming options, explaining laws, and empowering you along the way.
Best For
Parents who want to stay hands-on and learn the process.
Pros
- Builds your advocacy skills and confidence.
- Promotes transparency and shared decision-making.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Progress can take longer when every step is collaborative.
- Works best when you can stay regularly engaged.
2. Advocacy Approach
What's more important to you, fast solutions or long-term procedural protection?
Resolution-Focused
Prioritizes practical, immediate fixes (like adding minutes or supports) without unnecessary conflict.
Best For
Families seeking quick improvements in their child's current experience.
Pros
- Moves efficiently toward solutions.
- Helps preserve positive relationships with schools.
Things to Keep in Mind
- May not fully address deeper or systemic issues.
Rights-Focused
Centers legal protections and ensures schools follow IDEA or Section 504 procedures to the letter.
Best For
Parents facing recurring barriers, denials, or procedural concerns.
Pros
- Strengthens long-term safeguards.
- Creates a strong, well-documented record.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Can take more time to reach resolution.
- May feel more formal or process-heavy at times.
3. Meeting Role
Do you want your advocate to lead the meeting or guide you from the sidelines?
Coach from the Sidelines
Prepares you beforehand, helps organize data, and supports you during meetings without taking over.
Best For
Parents who want to develop their own advocacy voice.
Pros
- Builds confidence and self-advocacy skills.
- Keeps focus on teamwork with the school.
Things to Keep in Mind
- You'll take a more active speaking role.
- May require extra preparation or coaching time.
Leads Discussion
Runs the meeting and speaks on your behalf when needed, ensuring all points are clearly addressed.
Best For
Parents who prefer to have an experienced professional guide the discussion.
Pros
- Reduces stress during meetings.
- Keeps conversations organized and on track.
Things to Keep in Mind
- You may speak less during meetings.
- Some districts prefer hearing more directly from parents.
4. Communication Frequency
How often do you want updates from your advocate?
As-Needed Updates
The advocate reaches out when new developments occur or action is needed.
Best For
Families who prefer concise, milestone-based communication.
Pros
- Keeps communication efficient.
- Reduces unnecessary back-and-forth.
Things to Keep in Mind
- You might receive fewer in-between updates.
- Works best when you're comfortable trusting your advocate's lead.
Proactive & Frequent
Provides regular progress updates, reminders, and check-ins, even when things are calm.
Best For
Parents who like consistent updates and structured communication.
Pros
- Builds transparency and trust.
- Keeps everyone aligned and informed.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Involves more messages and calls.
- Can feel busy if you prefer less frequent communication.
5. Conflict Style
When disagreements arise, does your advocate focus on calm collaboration or firm accountability?
Calm & Diplomatic
Focuses on de-escalation and building mutual understanding to move forward productively.
Best For
Families with generally cooperative teams or those seeking steady, relationship-based progress.
Pros
- Maintains positive working relationships.
- Encourages teamwork and creative problem-solving.
Things to Keep in Mind
- May take longer to resolve deeply rooted issues.
- Works best when both sides are open to dialogue.
Assertive & Direct
Addresses issues head-on, names violations, and pushes for accountability when necessary.
Best For
Parents who've experienced repeated pushback or delays.
Pros
- Clarifies expectations and drives action.
- Shows schools that follow-through is non-negotiable.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Can temporarily increase tension before progress occurs.
- Works best when combined with clear communication and boundaries.
Putting It All Together
When choosing an advocate, consider your goals, comfort level, and current situation.
| Situation | Likely Best Fit |
|---|---|
| Upcoming IEP with major disagreements | Independent Advisor • Rights-Focused • Leads Discussion • Proactive & Frequent • Assertive & Direct |
| Routine IEP updates, good district rapport | Team Collaborator • Resolution-Focused • Coach from Sidelines • As-Needed • Calm & Diplomatic |
| New to advocacy and want to learn | Team Collaborator • Balanced Approach • Coach from Sidelines • Proactive • Calm & Diplomatic |
How to Use the "Working Style" Section
Check profiles first.
See how advocates describe their working style before booking.
Match your needs.
Identify which approach best fits your current stage.
Confirm during your intro call.
Ask for examples that show how they work with families.
Set expectations early.
Agree on communication rhythm, meeting roles, and next steps.
Final Takeaway
Every advocate has their own rhythm, some are strategists, others are coaches, and some are negotiators. The right one depends on how you want to collaborate and what kind of support your family needs most right now.
Browse advocate profiles, explore their Working Style, and find your best match today.
Start with a free consultation