Meet Natalie Hobock | Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) and Reading Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Hobock and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie, what principle do you value most?
That’s a great question. Regarding Houston Dyslexia LLC, commitment and passion are the values that stand out to me. Due to my high level of commitment and passion for what I do, I provide quality services for my students and their families. All of my other values align with the commitment and passion I provide. This includes integrity, advocacy, work ethic, continuous learning, accountability, continuous improvement, and quality.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am most proud of the difference I have made and continue to make in students’ and families’ lives. I believe this is due to who I am as an individual and the passion and commitment I have for individuals with dyslexia and related language-based learning differences.

I started out in public school and then found my calling when I started working at mainly private schools for students with language-based learning differences. There is a time and place for everyone and everything in life, and it was time for me to make a change. I didn’t want to stop working with students. My parents are both small business owners, so I decided to try to do what I love in a private practice setting.

I was scared to take the risk, but I am so glad that I did it. There have been challenges here and there, and I feel fortunate for them because they have helped me grow as a person and in my business. COVID posed a bit of a challenge because I had to move everything virtual quickly. That meant scanning a lot of materials, adapting, and growing in a short amount of time. It’s actually been very effective, though, and most of the families I work with opt for virtual or hybrid now, even though I love in-person services.

I’ve learned that even though I am doing great work and providing wonderful services, I also run a business. I recognize that may sound odd, but there are so many details that go into running a business smoothly. This means sometimes saying “no” to some things I would love to do, charging for extra services, etc.; I must run my business smoothly to be there for my students and their families.

I think it’s important for people to know that dyslexia and related language-based learning differences are independent of intelligence. Some of the most innovative and successful people in the world have dyslexia. Many people with dyslexia can learn to read and write very well with dyslexia academic therapy. There are caring, supportive, dedicated professionals committed to providing quality intervention for people with language-based learning differences.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, gosh. Visitors definitely need to get some quality Tex-Mex food. That means going to Lupe Tortillas for beef fajitas! We have The Museum District, which offers so many different museums. The Montrose area would be fun since it has some eclectic shops. Vistors might enjoy The Space Center and Galveston. The options are endless in Houston!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Several people and organizations have helped me become who I am. Professor David Olson went above and beyond in college when I needed assistance with test-taking environments. He modeled the importance a teacher can make in someone’s life along with the professional educator and student relationship by taking a vested interest in his students. My family and friends have been integral with their support, love, and encouragement. Neuhaus Education Center provided an exceptional foundation to become a CALT and Reading Therapist. The Neuhaus Family Support Office continues to provide support for me and families in the Houston area who have language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia. The International Dyslexia Association, Houston Branch of the International Dyslexia Association, ALTA, and Dr. Sally Shaywitz have provided and continue to provide excellent training and/or research. Lucie Kramer of Katy Dyslexia LLC and Dr. Novella Washington of L & W Educational Resources have been wonderful mentors. Thank you to everyone who has made a difference in my life!

Website: https://www.houstondyslexia.com