About

I’m Emily Nascimben, a learning specialist and academic coach with 15+ years of experience supporting neurodivergent learners.

I help students build practical systems, strengthen executive functioning, and feel more confident navigating school.

Emily Nascimben,
BASc.

Guelph, ON

(she / her)

I hold a Bachelor of Applied Science in Child, Youth and Family Studies from the University of Guelph, along with a Children’s Mental Health Certificate from Conestoga College and specialized training in developmental disabilities and evidence-informed educational practice.

My professional background includes roles as a post‑secondary learning specialist, assistive technology and literacy coach, academic skills instructor, and autism and behavioural consultant. Across these settings, my focus has remained consistent: supporting students in developing practical learning strategies, strengthening executive functioning, and building sustainable academic habits.

My work is grounded in learning science, executive function research, and a neurodiversity‑affirming approach. As someone with lived experience of ADHD and learning differences, I understand how overwhelming school can feel when supports don’t align with how your brain works. That perspective shapes my practice—compassionate, strengths‑based, and focused on helping students feel capable, understood, and equipped.

I primarily work with high school and post-secondary students, while also supporting younger learners who benefit from structured guidance in executive functioning, organization, and academic skills.

Many of the students I support are neurodivergent, have learning or developmental disabilities, or simply need additional scaffolding to stay on track. I also specialize in coaching women and girls with ADHD, particularly those diagnosed later in life or navigating major life transitions such as post-secondary education, parenthood, or peri/menopause. This work draws on both professional expertise and lived experience, including parenting two neurodivergent children.

My goal is to meet students where they are, build the skills they need, and help them move forward with clarity and momentum. Whether a student is preparing for post‑secondary education, navigating academic challenges, or returning to school after time away, I aim to create a supportive, collaborative space where they feel empowered to succeed.

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What it’s like to work together…

  • "Emily brings exceptional expertise to her work with neurodivergent students. Her kind, grounded approach helps students feel understood and supported, and her commitment to their success is evident. Working with Emily was a genuine pleasure, and her services offer meaningful, high-quality support to students and families."

    —Katie Galashan, M.Ed.
    Intake Coordinator, Accessible Learning, Conestoga College

  • "Emily was an integral part of my post-secondary experience, she made me feel comfortable asking for help starting with the very first appointment. She supported me for many semesters, including throughout projects to ensure I could be organized and meet all the requirements. Overall, I'm grateful that she eased so much of my stress!"

    —Janelle S., former college student

  • "As a parent, it's hard seeing your child struggle with managing symptoms (of ADHD), especially at school, and in social settings. Emily is very warm, and personable, which makes it easier for younger children to feel comfortable around her. She has already given me valuable information to help my daughter with daily tasks, at home and school. We look forward to working with her further."

    —Shannon, Guelph parent

  • "Emily is an exceptional Learning Support Coach whose expertise in assistive technology has made a meaningful difference for both students and staff. She has a remarkable ability to identify barriers to learning and implement practical, effective solutions that empower everyone to succeed. Emily is not only highly knowledgeable, but also incredibly supportive, patient, and collaborative in her approach. Her passion for inclusive education and commitment to helping others truly sets her apart."

    —Mike Anderson
    School Principal, UGDSB

  • "The supportive and encouraging meetings helped a lot with growing a productive mindset and keep focused on my goals. I especially appreciate how Emily connected to me on a personal level which in return she helped me come up with strategies specifically tailored for my needs. I'm proud of how I've come and I couldn't reach my full potential without her help."

    —Emi L., former college student

  • "Emily is such a caring and thoughtful support for students with differing abilities. She really gets students, especially those with ADHD, and knows how to support them in ways that feel encouraging and manageable. She’s incredibly knowledgeable, and she always finds creative, inventive ways to help students stay engaged and feel confident. I’ve seen firsthand how understanding and patient she is, and how much her approach helps students feel seen and supported. Anyone who works with her can tell how much she truly cares."

    —Janet Dunlea, M.A.P.
    Accessibility Advisor, Conestoga College

  • "Having worked with Emily as a student, I’ve seen firsthand her exceptional ability to build trust quickly and create a grounded, supportive environment where students feel heard, understood, and empowered to succeed. Her deep knowledge of student support practices, paired with her calm and empathetic communication style, makes complex processes feel accessible and manageable. Emily always approaches every interaction with care, clarity, and a genuine belief in each learner’s potential. Any student and institution would be fortunate to work with someone who brings such intention, integrity, and compassion to her role."

    —Monica Tong, former student
    Conestoga College

  • "I’ve had the pleasure of working with Emily over the past few years to support students. In her role as Learning Skills Advisor, she quickly built strong connections with students with ADHD and created a peer group where they could share strategies, exchange ideas, and strengthen their study skills and work habits. Emily is skilled at helping students develop personalized strategies, systems, and tools that improve their efficiency, productivity, and confidence with independent learning. Her approach is thoughtful, practical, and grounded in an understanding of each student’s unique needs. I highly recommend Emily and Focused Path Learning Services as an ADHD and academic coach. She brings creativity, insight, and innovative thinking to her work—empowering students to build skills that truly fit their daily lives."

    —Tricia Hendry, B.Sc., B.Ed.
    Accessibility Advisor, Conestoga College

  • "I really enjoyed my time working with Emily. She understands what it feels like to live with ADHD, because she does live with it. I think that is what makes her uniquely good at her job. She is compassionate and patient, and does not judge. She genuinely cares about her students and it is clear that she is invested in their success."

    —Steph, former college student

  • “I’ve known Emily for years, and one thing that has always stood out to me is how naturally she understands kids who learn and think differently. She has this calm, steady way of supporting people that makes challenges feel less overwhelming. She’s incredibly good at breaking things down into steps that actually make sense and help build confidence. Watching her create Focused Path Learning has felt like such a natural extension of who she is. Thoughtful, patient, and genuinely committed to helping students feel capable. Anyone who works with her will feel the difference she brings.”

    —Nicole, Guelph parent of 2

  • "The personal and professional experience that Emily brings to her work, supporting individuals in their navigation of the academic world through the lens of neurodivergent learning is truly one of a kind. Her compassion, hard work and dedication was continuously recognized by students. She provides masterclass level engagement and is an asset to anybody who has the pleasure of working alongside her."

    —Rachelle Schertzer
    Accessibility Advisor, Conestoga College

  • “I was genuinely impressed by the positivity and encouragement you consistently brought to the group, and I truly appreciated how you were able to connect with us on a deeper level to understand us. It was a real pleasure getting to know you, and I will sincerely miss your presence and guidance.”

    —Former college student
    ADHD Skills Group participant, Conestoga College

  • “I really appreciated the relaxed vibe and candidness. What you’re doing is important. Finding a small community of neurodivergent folks makes a world of difference.”

    —Former college student
    ADHD Skills Group participant, Conestoga College

My Approach:

My work is grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-informed approach that emphasizes practical strategies, empathy, and building independence.

I focus on helping students understand how they learn, develop systems that work for them, and build confidence over time.

The goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress, consistency, and feeling capable moving forward.

Get started on your Focused Path, today.

Book a Free 15-minute Consultation
Book a Free 15-minute Consultation