About Us
We believe in supporting and guiding families as they raise strong, independent, confident kids who succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Our Philosophy
At The Chicago Family Tutor, we provide structure, routine, and support while encouraging students to move beyond their comfort zone so that they can see just how smart, powerful, and capable they truly are.
Research has shown that authoritative parenting, characterized by high demands and high responsiveness, is the most beneficial for kids. This is the approach that we take with our students. We have high expectations, but we provide the support, guidance, and praise necessary to sustain these expectations and to help students achieve them.
Meet Our Owner
Lindsay Zoeller
Owner & Founder
Over the last 25 years, Lindsay has worked with hundreds of children and their families through her work as a babysitter, nanny, family law practitioner, teacher, and tutor.
She graduated from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign with a bachelor's degree in Psychology, and a J.D. from the University of Illinois College of Law.
While in law school, her desire to help families began to emerge, and she focused this interest by specializing in Family Law. Shortly after law school graduation, Lindsay embarked upon a period of soul searching and self-reflection. She realized that this desire was served better through education rather than litigation. Lindsay became an Illinois-certified educator in 2012, and she has been true to her calling ever since.
Our Team of Executive Functioning Coaches & Tutors
Meet the team of expert Executive Function Coaches, Tutors, Academic Coaches, Test Prep Specialists, and Education Advocates who will be working with you.
Betsy Gleinser
Betsy Gleinser
Betsy is an Executive Function coach with a Masters in Education specializing in Adult Education.
Over the last 15 years, she has worked with children and adult learners as a music educator, English as a Second Language instructor, literacy instructor, and now with students and professionals as an Executive Function coach and Test Prep tutor.
In coaching, Betsy is passionate about giving clients a safe space to self-reflect and examine their practices and routines, finding the inspiration and knowledge they need to tackle the hard things and create new pathways to their goals and aspirations. It is her goal as a coach to support and guide individuals and families to go from a place of stress to a posture of resilience that brings joy and productivity to their life.
Betsy specializes in working with adults who want to optimize their time and energy in order to be more productive at work or at home. She takes a strengths-based approach and focuses on core practices that lower stress and engage the purpose, vision and motivation of each individual. She believes that Executive Function coaching is a unique, insightful lens for professionals and businesses as they consider improvements in their best practices and training to promote a more productive, balanced environment.
When working with students, Betsy enjoys helping students understand their unique brain type, the skills and habits that promote better, faster learning, and the practice of setting goals and incorporating strategies to achieve those goals. She believes that Executive Function work in students raises self-awareness and skills that support life-long success.
Outside of work, Betsy enjoys hiking and biking with her husband, going to the library and botanical gardens with her son, playing the piano and violin, writing music, reading, traveling and following the Kansas City Chiefs.
Stats and Facts
- B.A. in Applied Linguistics from Moody Bible Institute
- M.Ed in Instructional Leadership from University of Illinois at Chicago
- Graduate Certificate in Community-Based Literacy Development
- Traveled in India, Nepal, Japan, China, Brazil, Canada and counting
Megan Utne
Megan Utne
Megan has been working in and around classrooms for over 18 years. She is an Illinois-Certified educator with a bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University.
After graduation, she spent five years teaching 3rd - 5th grade in suburban Chicago school districts. When her son was born, Megan wanted to continue working with children and schools, but not full time. The role she found working for her local library afforded her that opportunity. Over the last 13 years, Megan has led many outreach programs with local school districts and has stayed up to date on the latest teaching philosophies and practices through various education conferences and seminars.
Megan's philosophy revolves around the understanding that every student learns differently, and having the flexibility to employ different tools & strategies helps every student fulfill their potential.
First and foremost, her goal is to listen intently to the families she works with. Understanding the unique needs of each student will drive success and build their confidence.
When she is not working with families, you’ll likely find Megan going to and from her children’s various sports and activities. In their free time, bike rides and exploring new parks/nature preserves are family favorites!
Stats and Facts
- Bachelor’s in Education from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign
- Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University
Eileen Nordmeyer
Eileen Nordmeyer
For 26 years, Eileen has enjoyed working with children, families, and adults as a Speech Language Pathologist. She is licensed and credentialed and has a bachelor's degree in Speech and Hearing Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master's degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Iowa.
Over the course of her career, Eileen has worked in a variety of settings and gained experience with individuals of all ages with executive function deficits. Eileen has the unique experience of understanding what it is like to provide services to others as a professional, while also implementing strategies in her own home. She knows how important it is for individuals and families to find workable solutions that fit their lifestyle, and uses her expertise and collaborative approach to promote success and create desired change.
Knowing the challenges that individuals may face has given Eileen valuable insight and allowed her to work as a strong advocate for children and families. She has created, led, and participated in numerous private and school-affiliated educational and support programs.
In her spare time, you can find her volunteering, cheering on the White Sox, reading a good book, or spending time with her family.
Stats and Facts
- Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Iowa
- IL State Licensure
- American Speech Hearing Language Association Certification
Antoinette Greenberg
Antoinette Greenberg
Antoinette Greenberg is an accomplished academic coach and tutor, renowned for her extensive background in Education and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing. With expertise in Specialized Literacy Instruction, Curriculum Planning, and Academic Coaching, she offers tailored support for students grappling with school-related anxiety, ADHD, Executive Functioning challenges, and other special needs.
Her journey in education began with a 15-year tenure as an elementary school teacher. Following this, Antoinette delved deeper into specialized tutoring, acquiring certification in the Introductory Wilson Reading Program and advancing her skills with the Orton Gillingham approach, designed specifically to remediate dyslexia.
A personal experience with her niece, who faced academic challenges due to ADHD and anxiety, steered Antoinette towards academic coaching. This newfound passion led her to earn a certification in the "Seeing My Time" program, one of the most renowned methods for assisting students with ADHD and Executive Functioning challenges.
Over the last half-decade, Antoinette has catered to a diverse clientele, ranging from kindergarteners to adults. Her portfolio includes students from both private and public educational institutions, as well as adults from various backgrounds.
Currently, Antoinette serves as the Resource Specialist at an esteemed private school. Here, she offers individualized instruction and consults on academic challenges faced by students. In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, she is actively involved in curriculum development, presently assisting in the creation of a new Reading and Language Arts curriculum for grades K-2.
In Antoinette, students and educators find a dedicated professional, deeply invested in facilitating academic success and personal growth.
- BA in Liberal Arts and Education
- BS in Nursing
- Masters in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from Rush University Chicago
- Certified in Introductory Wilson and Orton-Gillingham Reading Systems
- Seeing My Time Certification
Kailey Byrne
Kailey Byrne
Kailey Byrne is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) with a track record of over 3 years in working with families and children within an educational environment. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Child Development and Psychology from Kent State University in 2015 and completed her Master’s of Education in School Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago in 2020.
Through her experience, Kailey has engaged with numerous students and families, aiding them in the accomplishment of academic and personal objectives. She has also played a role in enhancing executive functioning skills and promoting overall social-emotional well-being. Her dedication lies in assisting children in realizing their highest potential by nurturing their distinct and diverse needs. Kailey finds satisfaction in establishing meaningful connections with families and students, contributing to interventions, overseeing data analysis, and offering support to school teams in the implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and 504 plans.
In her leisure hours, she derives enjoyment from exploring Chicago, embarking on travels, honing her cooking skills, and relishing moments spent with friends.
Stats and Facts
- Bachelor’s in Child Development and Psychology from Kent State University in 2015
- Master’s of Education in School Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago in 2020
Ronald Trosin
Ronald Trosin
Ronald has engaged in peer-to-peer and volunteer tutoring for over 10 years. He began in middle school in Math and Science workshops and continued in High School and College in various Science and Spanish groups. He has spent the last year as a volunteer tutor in local Chicago community organizations. Ronald completed his bachelor's degree in Biology from Kalamazoo College and is currently enrolled in an MBA program through the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.
Ronald focuses his educational experiences on the individual, taking time to assess areas of strengths and improvement. He comes from a family of educators and values learning at all levels.
Through developments of routine, organization, and interpersonal skills, he has helped students build their confidence in STEM studies.
In his downtime, Ronald enjoys reading, writing his own stories, and learning about world history. He lives full-time in Chicago with his dog, Pisces.
- BA in Biology, Kalamazoo College
- MBA candidate, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Mary Kate Kreiner
Mary Kate Kreiner
Mary Kate has taught students with diverse learning needs for six years, including students with autism, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and learning disabilities. She has collaborated with a variety of special education stakeholders to support students, such as social workers, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, as well as managed a team of paraprofessionals within my own classroom. Professional interests include assistive technology, Gestalt language processing disorder, and diverse learning supports.
Mary Kate has experienced the differences between learning at school versus learning at home as in-home support for a young adult with learning, behavioral, and medical needs, as well as being a mom of two young children (ages 1 and 3). Mary Kate is excited to work with your family to make your goals a reality!
Stats and Facts
- Bachelor of Education - BEd, Special Education and Teaching - Loyola University Chicago
Tom Keating
Tom Keating
Tom is a math and science coach with a PhD in Electrical Engineering.
He has worked with children and adults learning math from pre-algebra through college-level math, as well as science including biology, chemistry, physics and more. Tom has tutored for over 25 years, and has helped numerous students with preparedness for entrance exams and standardized tests. He served as an adjunct professor at the University of Texas Austin, and has taught high school math and science in Texas and Illinois.
Tom’s approach to math is to help students identify patterns and develop mathematical thinking that can guide them in problem solving with confidence. A key aspect of this approach is to develop high-level thinking about problems, not just the nuts and bolts of solution mechanics. Tom stresses the practicality and usefulness of math in terms of real-world applications. In science, the approach is similar, with an emphasis on how science applies to all the things around us in our daily life.
He brings executive functiont to math and science by ensuring that students practice the top-down view of these subjects, not just learning the mechanics and nitty-gritty. Students are often coached to ask ‘does this make sense’ as they work through problems, and are also coached to ‘step back’ to view what they have done, so that the whole of their connected efforts can be seen to fit together.
For younger learners and especially those struggling with math, Tom puts math and science into plain English to ensure understanding. He has worked with students having various learning challenges and brings an approachable, humorous view to put students at ease, and believes in bringing a sense of wonder to science and technology.
Tom has traveled extensively, visiting over 30 countries, and speaks fluent German and basic Mandarin. His hobbies include cooking, working out and occasionally, advising hi tech startups on strategy.
Stats and Facts
PhD, Electrical Engineering, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
MBA, the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
Emma Laurash
Emma Laurash
Emma is a certified speech-language pathologist with over six years of experience working with both children and adults across educational and medical settings. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Science and Disorders from the University of Pittsburgh, followed by a Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Learning from Northwestern University. While she has enjoyed working across a broad range of communication needs, she has found a particular passion in supporting individuals with voice disorders.
Throughout her career, Emma has focused on helping people bridge the gap between skill-building and implementing practical, sustainable strategies for everyday success. While her work has centered around communication, she quickly recognized how these same strategies could be applied more broadly to support executive functioning and personal productivity. This realization sparked her interest in executive functioning coaching, where she now blends her clinical background with her drive to help others reach their fullest potential. Emma approaches each individual with empathy and curiosity, understanding that meaningful growth is deeply personal and rarely one-size-fits-all.
Outside of her professional life, Emma enjoys long walks with her dog, discovering hidden gems around the city, and spending time by the lake. A trained vocalist, she also performs with an a cappella group based in Chicago.
Stats and Facts
- B.A. in Communication Science and Disorders from the University of Pittsburgh
- M.S. in Speech, Language, and Learning
- IL State SLP Licensure and Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association
Pushpa Winbush
Pushpa Winbush
Pushpa is a school psychologist with a track record of working with students, teachers, and administrators at elementary, middle, and high schools for over 25 years. She has obtained her bachelor’s in Psychology from Illinois State University in 1995 and went on to complete her Specialist in School Psychology (SSP) degree from Illinois State University in 1999.
Pushpa's experiences have involved administering educational assessments and interpreting results for students with disabilities, facilitating Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings, 504 meetings, and problem-solving meetings for students referred for academic, behavioral, and social-emotional concerns. She has worked with students to help them identify their executive functioning strengths and challenges and create systems that are individualized to meet their needs. Pushpa enjoys talking to students, to get them to take ownership of their learning, and become more self-aware of their strengths and challenges, and advocate for themselves.
In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and traveling. Pushpa is excited to work with your family and help support your child with their executive functioning needs!
Stats and Facts
Bachelor of Science - B.S. in Psychology - Illinois State University
Specialist in School Psychology - SSP - Illinois State University
Kennedy Cribbs
Kennedy Cribbs
Kennedy is an academic and test prep coach. She completed her bachelor's degree in Biology cum laude from Brigham Young University while competing as an All-American athlete on the Division I diving team. Kennedy is currently enrolled at Northwestern University School of Law, where she serves as an editor for Northwestern University Law Review.
Over the last 6 years, Kennedy has worked with kids aged 4-22 as a gymnastics and diving coach, including as an assistant coach to Northwestern's Division I diving team. As a coach, Kennedy is passionate about helping others build confidence, overcome fear, and develop a growth mindset. She believes that short-term failures and weaknesses are not a setback, but rather a powerful tool for learning. Kennedy strives to create a supportive environment where students feel safe to make mistakes and grow from their experiences, turning their weaknesses into strengths.
Through targeted identification of areas of potential improvement and systematic skill progressions, Kennedy has helped students develop confidence in their own ability to perform under pressure and work through fear and anxiety in a variety of settings.
In her downtime, Kennedy enjoys training for half marathons, reading, and spending time with her husband, Chris. She serves as a volunteer teacher to 3- and 4-year-olds for her local church.
Stats and Facts
- B.S. in Biology from the Brigham Young University
- J.D. Candidate, Class of 2026 from
Northwestern Pritzker School of Law
Thomas MacLehose
Thomas MacLehose
Thomas MacLehose is a recent graduate of the University of Virginia with over five years of tutoring experience. Born into a family of teachers, he began tutoring at his high school’s writing center and has since assisted elementary, middle, and high school students with English, history, math, and standardized test prep in one of Connecticut’s top school districts.
His pedagogical approach relies on asking students questions that prompt critical thinking, hone problem solving skills, and improve pattern recognition. Thomas looks to identify each individual student's strengths and weaknesses in order to improve performance, lessen test anxiety, and grow academic confidence.
As a young professional, Thomas is well aware of the pressures that teens face. By employing his keen sense of humor and his knowledge of sports and pop culture, he makes his lessons relevant, fresh, and accessible to all kinds of learners.
Outside of work, he enjoys playing tennis, watching Jeopardy!, and rooting for the New York Giants.
Stats and Facts
- B.A. with distinction in Economics and History, University of Virginia
Rithvik Papani
Rithvik Papani
Rithvik has helped students of all backgrounds – future doctors, carpenters-in-training, and everyone in between – discover that learning can be both effective and enjoyable. With experience as a professional MCAT tutor, AmeriCorps educator in Chicago, undergraduate biochemistry TA, and tutor for middle and high school students, he knows how to adapt his teaching to meet each learner wherever they are.
Rithvik believes that learning happens best when students ask questions freely and are not afraid to make mistakes. He delivers clear explanations that help students truly understand what they are learning and always wants his students to feel safe, valued, and heard. Years of challenging STEM coursework and a 99th-percentile MCAT score have taught him what works, what doesn’t, and how to make even tough subjects feel manageable. Most importantly, Rithvik encourages students to thrive academically while still leaving time and energy for interests and hobbies that make life fulfilling.
Rithvik earned his B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Chicago. When he’s not teaching, you can find him playing guitar, reading, or biking along Lake Shore Drive.
Stats and Facts
- B.S. in Chemistry, University of Chicago
Anneliese Hopkins
Anneliese Hopkins
Anneliese is an Executive Function coach with a Masters in Psychology (Professional), and a focus on supporting children and families within the school system.
Anneliese has experience practicing as a school psychologist and a provisional psychologist in both public and private schools across Australia, working with children aged 6-18 years old. She has supported students with a range of diagnoses, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and anxiety.
After recently relocating to Chicago from Melbourne, Australia, Anneliese is eager to utilize her skills and experience to continue to support children and families, building lasting practical strategies for success both in and outside of the classroom.
Anneliese holds a strength-based approach, tailoring strategies to fit the child’s specific learning styles and skills. She brings a deep understanding of neurodivergence, strong communication skills, and compassion to her work.
Outside of her professional work, Anneliese enjoys spending time in nature, travelling, and exploring new places around Chicago!
Stats and Facts
Bachelor of Science (Psychology Double Major) from The University of Western Australia
Graduate Diploma in Psychology from Murdoch University, Australia
Master of Psychology (Professional) from Curtin University, Australia
Nicole Perkowitz
Nicole Perkowitz
Nicole Perkowitz has been coaching both children and adults across the country on executive functioning for nearly a decade. She has coached all ages, from kindergartners to entrepreneurs and executives. Nicole is a former practicing attorney who holds her JD/MBA from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, and she began her executive functioning studies at the ADD Coach Academy.
As a coach and a contributor to ADDitude magazine, she is passionate about putting the functioning back in executive functioning. Nicole is a compassionate (and fun!) coach who has a strong history of working with both neurodiverse and neurotypical clients. She believes strongly in getting to know her clients individual strengths and challenges in order to bring a bespoke, tailored approach to supporting the former while boosting the latter.
In her free time, Nicole can be found in nature, often hiking or the dog beach, as well as pursuing a variety of creative activities- everything from cooking to watercolors to storytelling and improvisational and sketch comedy. She loves to use her comedy background to bring some fun and levity into the coaching process.
Stats and Facts
- B.A. from University of California Santa Barbara
- MBA from Loyola Marymount University
- J.D. from Loyola Law School Los Angeles
- Studied Executive Functioning at ADDCA - the ADD Coach Academy
- Former Litigator
- Has coached both privately and in school settings
- Contributor to ADDitude magazine
Grace Francour
Grace Francour
Grace is an executive function coach and licensed clinical professional counselor working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She obtained her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a focus on Family Relationships from Miami University (OH).
Prior to starting her graduate program, Grace worked closely with children, teens, and families through athletic coaching, nannying, and behavioral therapy. During and after her graduate program, Grace focused on working one-on-one with individuals across the lifespan in community-based and private practice mental health settings. She primarily works with people facing challenges due to anxiety, ADHD, ASD, and life changes/transitions.
Grace approaches each of her clients from a strengths-based perspective and utilizes brain-based interventions in her work, drawing from her academic and professional experience to find strategies that fit the unique needs of each client. She uses her understanding of the interconnectedness between social-emotional wellbeing and academic or work success to help her clients from a holistic perspective. Grace believes strongly in the importance of forming a trusting and collaborative relationship with each of her clients (and their families). It is always her priority that each client feels capable of greater independence in their executive function journey and encourages client autonomy and responsibility throughout the process.
In her free time, Grace enjoys reading, crocheting, and trying new restaurants in Chicago with friends and family. She is excited to help each client feel a greater sense of confidence in themselves and their capabilities!
Stats and Facts
- Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University
- Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology, Family Studies from Miami University
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (IL)
Kristen Becker
Kristen Becker
Kristen is a certified health and wellness coach and a board-certified holistic nurse with a Master’s degree in Nursing Education from Gonzaga University. She is passionate about helping teens and adults discover their highest level of authentic wellness.
Kristen began her nursing career in critical care and later expanded into a variety of educational settings, teaching individuals of all ages. Her experience with critically ill patients deepened her understanding of the importance of not just helping people survive, but to truly thrive.
Through advanced training in holistic wellness and coaching, Kristen supports clients of all ages through evidence-based practices and behavior change science. Her individualized approach honors each person’s unique values, vision, and strengths. By fostering meaningful connection and guided exploration, she empowers clients to tap into their own intrinsic motivations, build lasting life skills, and confidently sustain healthy habits over time.
Outside of work, Kristen enjoys spending time with her family, cheering on her teenage boys at sporting and school events, and seeking outdoor adventures together.
Stats and Facts
- Bachelor of Science, Chemistry, Washington State University
- Bachelor of Science, Nursing, Seattle Pacific University
- Master of Science, Nursing Education, Gonzaga University
- Holistic Nurse Baccalaureate Board Certified
- Health and Well-being Coach, Duke Health & Well-Being
Prepared for Today's World
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Quick Hits
of our students improved grades or performance within three months
students that The Chicago Family Tutor has worked with
of our coaches have 7+ years of professional experience
years of TCFT helping people become their best selves
Invest in Your Child
Hiring a professional to support your family in any capacity is an investment, so let’s have a conversation to see if we are a good fit. In this free consultation we will determine how our collaboration can best serve your family.