Dr. Yvette Nieves, PhD

My career in education has given me the opportunity to support learners at nearly every stage of the academic journey—from middle and high school students preparing for their futures to college students and adult learners navigating higher education.

Across more than 20 years, my work has included academic success programming, college-level instruction, educational leadership, professional learning, and individualized academic and executive-function coaching.

I hold a PhD in Educational Psychology with a specialization in Child and Adolescent Development, a Master's degree in Education Administration and Leadership, and a Bachelor's degree in Sociology. My educational and professional background allows me to approach academic coaching from both a developmental and educational perspective.

I understand that academic success involves much more than earning good grades. Students also need the skills to manage their time, organize competing responsibilities, advocate for themselves, make effective decisions, stay motivated, and follow through when things become difficult.

As an academic coach, I work individually with college students and adult learners to develop practical strategies for executive functioning and academic success. My work has included support with time management, organization, academic planning, goal setting, motivation, study strategies, educational transitions, self-advocacy, and overcoming barriers that interfere with progress.

As a college professor, I also understand firsthand the expectations students encounter in higher education. I can help students better understand those expectations while developing the habits, communication skills, and strategies necessary to navigate college successfully.

My experience in educational leadership and student success has also included developing academic support initiatives, facilitating workshops and professional development, monitoring student progress, and collaborating with students, families, faculty, and other stakeholders to improve outcomes.

My coaching approach is supportive, practical, and individualized. I believe students benefit most when they feel heard and understood while also receiving clear guidance, accountability, and actionable next steps. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I help each student identify what's getting in the way, recognize their strengths, and develop realistic strategies that fit their circumstances and goals.

I especially enjoy working with students and adult learners who know they are capable but may be struggling with organization, time management, motivation, follow-through, academic transitions, or simply figuring out what to do next.

Whether you're preparing for college, adjusting to higher education, working toward a graduate degree, returning to school as an adult learner, or trying to get back on track academically, my goal is for you to leave our work together with greater clarity, confidence, and a plan you can actually use.

Let's turn "I know I need to do this" into "I know how I'm going to do it."