My Learning Strategist
Where strategy meets success.
Personalized learning strategy support for students navigating ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, other neurodiverse learning profiles, and those navigating mental health challenges.
Students who want to strengthen their learning strategies and improve academic performance can also benefit from this support.
- Debi ManiloffM.A., Speech Communication
- LSAC memberLearning Strategists of Canada
- Ottawa & onlineIn-person or remote
Funding may be available
Learning strategist services for students in Ontario may be eligible for Bursary for Students with Disabilities (BSWD) funding. Funding is based on individual student approval. Please check with the Accessibility Advisor at your post-secondary institution.
Rate: $100 per hour. This rate is consistent with full BSWD coverage, where approved.
About me
“Every session is personalized. There is no one-size-fits-all approach — because there is no one way to learn.”— Debi Maniloff
With over 15 years of experience supporting post-secondary students, I work with individuals who are capable and motivated but may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward.
My approach
This work is not about tutoring or "fixing" students. It's about understanding how you learn — and building strategies that support you in a practical, sustainable way.
Together, we focus on:
- breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps
- developing realistic and effective study approaches
- strengthening time management and organization
- building confidence and independence over time
Every session is personalized. There is no one-size-fits-all approach — because there is no one way to learn.
Who I work with
I support:
- post-secondary students (college and university)
- students transitioning into post-secondary education
- students registered with accessibility or disability services
- students who feel capable but struggle to meet expectations
- students who want to study and learn more efficiently
Many of the students I work with are bright, thoughtful, and determined — they simply haven't yet been shown strategies that work for them.
A supportive and practical space
Reaching out for support can feel like a big step. My goal is to create a space that is:
- respectful and non-judgmental
- collaborative and practical
- focused on progress, not perfection
We work together to find strategies that are realistic, flexible, and actually usable in day-to-day academic life.
You might benefit from My Learning Strategist support if you:
- feel overwhelmed by coursework or expectations
- struggle with time management or organization
- have difficulty getting started or staying on track
- experience test-taking anxiety
- want to feel more confident and in control of your learning
How I help
Working together looks different for every student. Common starting points:
Time and task management
Planners, weekly maps, and routines that hold up during exams.
Study and learning strategies
Note-taking, reading, memory and recall techniques tailored to your courses.
Overcoming procrastination
Building motivation, managing avoidance, and developing strategies to start tasks and stay on track.
Self-advocacy and communication
Talking to professors, asking for help, and staying connected to support.
Confidence and momentum
Small wins, regular check-ins, honest reflection.
Sessions are one-on-one, online or in person in Ottawa.
What people say
I had the privilege of having Debi as my learning strategist during my last year of undergrad at Algonquin College. She helped me develop time-management skills by building a weekly template, and taught me how to break down assignments so they became manageable and less overwhelming. I am so beyond thankful for all that Debi taught me.
— ShelinaAlgonquin College graduateDebi taught me how to overcome challenges in my courses that were often caused by anxiousness and perfectionism. She showed me how to start assignments even when I was nervous, and how to keep coming back to work on something — until eventually I was processing the learning instead of being afraid of not being able to do it. The skills Debi taught me — communication, persistence, self-efficacy, and self-compassion — continue to help me move forward in academia.
— MeganAlgonquin College valedictorian (2022) · Athabasca UniversityThe support you provided has truly been the difference between day and night for me. With your help, I have not only made it through my third semester, but I have also been a straight-A student and made the Dean's Honour List for both previous semesters. You have been a guardian angel throughout my studies, and I am incredibly grateful for your support.
— KhaledStudentDebi has been an integral person in my success returning to Algonquin College these last two semesters. Her support in time management, college operations, and navigating all the learning accommodations regarding my disabilities has meant the world to me.
— MitchStudent, Algonquin CollegeDebi has a remarkable ability to meet students exactly where they are in their learning journey. Her kind, warm approach—combined with her extensive experience—allows her to build strong, supportive relationships that foster confidence and meaningful progress.
— AndreaColleague
Contact
The best first step is a short email. Tell me a little about your school, your goals, and what you’re finding hard right now. I’ll reply within a few business days.