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Dad who took on schools and won, shares strategies

OCD New York program, March 5

GREAT NECK, NY | A three-year fight against a Rhode Island school system turned Scott Sokolow, of Locust Valley, Long Island, into an advocate who teaches parents how to get the best possible public education for their child.

When Sokolow’s son’s symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder began to affect his school work, Sokolow sought access to resources that his son was entitled to receive under federal law. His three-year battle ended in victory.

On Saturday, March 5, presented by OCD New York, Sokolow headlines a program, entitled “Know Your Child’s Educational Rights.” He aims to educate parents on what to ask for and how to receive services for children battling mental illness.

“Kids who suffer from OCD fall into a grey area. They don’t usually have a learning disability; in fact, many children with OCD are quite smart,” Sokolow said. “They just need different resources to allow them to be successful.”

Sokolow and psychologist Natascha Santos will discuss the public’s legal and educational rights and share strategies that will empower parents to advocate for their children.

Sokolow said his son was unfairly punished because teachers thought he was acting out when, instead, he was exhibiting the compulsions and rituals of OCD. Obsessive Compulsive disorder affects 4 million Americans, including 1 million children and teenagers. It has no cure, but OCD symptoms can be managed through effective therapy and/or medication.

OCD New York presents the lecture at 11 a.m. on March 5 at the Bio Behavioral Institute, 935 Northern Blvd, Great Neck, NY.

“These services are available to help parents – and many people don’t know how to ask for them,” said Dr. Fugen Neziroglu, president of OCD New York and one of the country’s leading experts on OCD and related disorders. “A student with OCD, ADHD, anxiety or other challenges can succeed and do well in school, with the right assistance and resources.”

OCD New York is an affiliate of the International OCD Foundation, which helps individuals afflicted with OCD gain access to appropriate support and affordable treatment, raises awareness and provides education about OCD, and trains mental health professional to treat OCD.

For more information visit www.ocdny.org. Please register in advance by calling 516-442-9621 or emailed ocdny@ocfoundation.org. Suggested donation is $35 and includes lunch at the event.