For more than two decades, Brea has helped San Francisco Bay Area children with special needs and their families find success in a variety of academic settings. She has worked privately and in the public schools as a Learning Specialist since 2006. Brea specializes in helping students who benefit from support in the areas of reading fluency and comprehension, writing, self-advocacy, independent learning, and executive functions.

 In her private practice as Founder of Links Through Learning, she provides executive function coaching, academic remediation, and support for students with learning differences and/or weaknesses in focus, attention and organization. Additionally, she includes advocacy, academic content strategies, test preparation, and study skills.

 As a parent of children with special needs and a seasoned professional, Brea understands the intricacies and demands involved in navigating the school system and preparing families by creating successful long-term strategies. She believes that education and support go hand in hand, and that her professional role requires a high level of engagement and leadership. Families benefit from dependable professionals that are dedicated to their jobs and an approach that creates a balance between expectations and fit. With this approach in mind, Brea offers parent consultation and workshops that focus on creating a better understanding of available resources and finding a balance between the demands of our educational systems and the needs of individual learners.

 Knowledge, awareness, and experience with the community of available professionals and supports is a central part of Brea’s expertise. She has observed, instructed, and supported students in a variety of academic settings and takes the time to understand how the needs of the individual interact with the demands of learning. Brea is a member of several local professional groups and often attends or hosts networking engagements. She is a member of the International Dyslexia Association and regularly finds time to contribute to professional discussions for students with special needs.

 Brea has an MA in American History from San Jose State University and an MA in Special Education with an Emphasis on Mild to Moderate Disabilities and Autism Certification with Level I and II completion from Santa Clara University. Brea is an active member of her community and has served as a volunteer and board member for several youth-based non-profits. She is a long-time San Francisco Bay Area resident and lives with her husband, youngest daughter, and family dog, Hiro.