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Hello, I'm Ryan Hogan! I'm a school psychologist in Texas and a proud parent of an autistic teenager. Balancing the professional and personal sides of supporting children with special needs has been quite the adventure, and I’m excited to share my journey with you!
I completed my undergraduate degree in psychology from Harding University in 2003. My plans to attend graduate school for school psychology were almost derailed when I met a director at a hospital serving children’s psychological needs. I worked there briefly but ultimately decided to pursue school psychology. My background also sparked my interest in the field. During high school and college, I was a camp counselor for the YMCA, and growing up with my stepsister, who has Down Syndrome, deeply influenced my passion for serving others.
A fun fact about me: I made it past the first two rounds of American Idol and auditioned in front of Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul, and Simon Cowell while completing my graduate degree in school psychology at Abilene Christian University. This was during the height of American Idol mania, so let's just say it was quite an experience!
I recently completed my 5th year at Keller ISD, but I'm originally from Houston, Texas. I completed my internship at Katy ISD, where I lived the bachelor life, sleeping on a mattress in my brother’s one-bedroom apartment. After considering my options, I accepted a position at Grand Prairie ISD, where I spent 13 years, and I've lived in the Dallas/Fort Worth area ever since.
At Keller ISD, I work with a fantastic team of 13 LSSPs. Together, we conduct Autism and Emotional Disability evaluations, Functional Behavior Assessments, counseling, and consultation.
Now, I want to share the journey of pride and challenges I’ve experienced with my 13-year-old son, Reed, who has autism. When Reed was very young, I initially denied concerns about his development. I noticed his self-stimulating behaviors but tried to find other explanations. My stepmother, with her educational background in special needs and recognition as a Texas Teacher of the Year, gently approached my wife and me, suggesting an evaluation for Reed and services.
When Reed was very young, I initially denied concerns about his development. I noticed his self-stimulating behaviors but tried to find other explanations.
Reed was officially diagnosed at almost three years old, and that initial conversation brought profound grief and sadness. My wife, who is not in our field, was especially shocked and distressed. While I was in denial, she initially refused to accept the possibility of autism, experiencing a whirlwind of emotions: anger, guilt, shame, hopelessness, and confusion. I understood she needed time to process and accept this reality. We eventually agreed to speech services for Reed, and it was through his speech pathologist’s recommendation that we pursued further testing. It’s amusing to recall that she followed the recommendation of the speech pathologist but not her school psychologist husband!
Once Reed was diagnosed, my wife transformed into an incredible advocate for his services. She immersed herself in research, seeking out the best therapies for Reed. With my background in school psychology, I supported Reed’s needs within the school setting, while she tirelessly secured comprehensive services beyond it. Thanks to her dedication, Reed benefited from ABA therapy from the age of 2 1⁄2 to 10—a time when such resources were scarce. Her relentless pursuit ensured he received the best possible support.
Once Reed was diagnosed, my wife transformed into an incredible advocate for his services.
We faced additional grief and sadness when we decided not to have another child due to Reed’s needs, a decision that went against our original plans for a larger family. We had envisioned two to three typical, healthy children, and this new reality was far from what we expected. However, I wouldn’t change a thing. Reed is bright, clever, joyful, and sweet. He’s an incredible and gifted artist, with highly detailed drawings reflecting his current interests. From Fort Worth skylines to YouTube Kids characters, his art brings immense joy and pride to our lives.
We had envisioned two to three typical, healthy children, and this new reality was far from what we expected. However, I wouldn't change a thing. Reed is bright, clever, joyful, and sweet.
My experience as a parent of a special needs child is shared by many, regardless of educational or career backgrounds. Raising an autistic child while working with children on the spectrum has allowed me to empathize deeply with other parents facing similar challenges. I can offer firsthand recommendations for children with autism, but I often describe myself as a “human being first,” acknowledging that applying professional knowledge to my own son can be difficult. Implementing strategies at home can be time-consuming and overwhelming, and it's important to recognize that.
I can offer firsthand recommendations for children with autism, but I often describe myself as a “human being first,” acknowledging that applying professional knowledge to my own son can be difficult.
Working in the same district where my son attends school, I am thrilled with Reed’s progress and his amazing teacher this year. Reed participated in a school production of The Lion King, and his teacher stayed after school with him for several weeks to help him practice. He is attending Art, PE, and lunch with his peers, integrating into the general education setting, and gaining more independence than ever. Reed also delivers coffee to the staff throughout the school on Fridays, and they pay for it—he doesn't work for free! My experience within Keller ISD has been overwhelmingly positive, both professionally and personally.
Reed participated in a school production of The Lion King, and his teacher stayed after school with him for several weeks to help him practice.
Regarding his artwork, this past school year, Reed created a mural in his classroom entirely on his own initiative. He started placing his drawings on the wall one by one, and eventually, it became a mural. His teacher is committed to preserving and continuing the mural next school year. We are so proud of him!
For me, anything student-centered is my favorite part of being a school psychologist. In my spare time, I continue creating school psychology content that we can all relate to. Early in my career, I often felt alone and thought everyone else had it all together. In reality, we’re all experiencing similar struggles and achievements. I want other professionals to know they aren't alone in their struggles and feelings in this field. The benefit of an online community is immense, helping build connections with other LSSPs across the state.
I want other professionals to know they aren't alone in their struggles and feelings in this field. The benefit of an online community is immense.
This article was written by Ryan Hogan, a school psychologist in Texas. Follow him on Instagram @worldsokayestschoolpsych and @schoolpsychdad!
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