Meet the Collective

Emily Franks is the founder of EmilyDiana Collective, a boutique educational therapy and academic support practice serving students and families throughout the South Bay and greater Los Angeles area. She specializes in literacy development, structured literacy intervention, elementary math, executive functioning, and individualized academic support for students with diverse learning profiles. Her work is grounded in the Science of Reading and evidence-based instructional practices that build foundational skills, confidence, and independence.

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Emily began her career as a classroom teacher before advancing into educational leadership roles, including serving as a Lower School Division Head and Curriculum Division Head. She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from Elon University, an M.S. in Reading and Literacy from California State University, Fullerton, and a Reading & Literacy Leadership Specialist Credential. She has also served as an Associate Educational Therapist through the Association of Educational Therapists.

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With experience in both school-based and private practice settings, Emily supports students with literacy challenges, language-based learning differences, executive functioning needs, elementary mathematics, and broader academic skill development. Her approach is individualized, data-informed, and relationship-driven, with a strong emphasis on collaboration among families, educators, and allied professionals.

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In addition to direct student support, Emily provides educational consulting and school placement guidance for families navigating educational decisions. She works closely with parents to better understand their child's learning profile, identify appropriate school environments, coordinate support services, and build a comprehensive plan for long-term success. She is passionate about helping students develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.

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Alison Marie Guydan is an Educational Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in supporting students, young adults, and families through academic, executive functioning, and social-emotional challenges. She brings a unique blend of educational and clinical expertise, helping students develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed both in and out of the classroom.

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Ali has extensive experience working with students with ADHD, anxiety, executive functioning difficulties, learning differences, and school-related stress. She supports students in areas such as organization, time management, study skills, writing, academic planning, and college readiness. Her background as a therapist also allows her to help students navigate the emotional aspects of learning, motivation, and self-advocacy.

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Ali's approach is individualized, strengths-based, and collaborative. She works closely with students and families to develop practical strategies that foster independence, resilience, and long-term success. Her goal is to help students build the skills necessary to confidently manage academic demands while maintaining their overall well-being.

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Sue is an experienced Reading Specialist with over 25 years of education-centered experience supporting early childhood and lower elementary learners. She currently works at a private school in Manhattan Beach and specializes in literacy intervention for students in kindergarten through fourth grade, with a particular focus on struggling early readers and students with dyslexia. Sue takes a holistic, child-centered approach to teaching, meeting each child where they are and building both foundational skills and confidence over time.

Sue holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa and has extensive training in Montessori Early Childhood and Elementary education as well as Science of Reading–aligned instruction. Her credentials include an American Montessori Society Associate Credential in Early Childhood, a UCLA Early Childhood Certificate, and an AMS Elementary Reading Certificate. She is also trained in IMSE Orton-Gillingham Plus, IMSE Dyslexia Overview, and the Wilson Reading System.

Originally from South Africa, Sue is deeply passionate about reading and finds her greatest joy in watching hesitant readers grow into confident learners. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and reading. Sue has completed more than 50 marathons and is a proud mother of three adult children and grandmother to four.​​​​​​​​

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Kristi Contreras is a highly experienced special educator with more than 30 years of experience supporting students across elementary, middle, and high school settings. She specializes in individualized academic intervention, learning support, and helping students develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

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In her current role with Manhattan Beach Unified School District, Kristi serves as a Special Education Teacher and Private School Assessor, providing private school case management, academic assessments, and service plan development for students attending private schools throughout the district. She collaborates closely with families, school teams, and outside providers to ensure students receive the support and accommodations they need to succeed.

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Throughout her career, Kristi has worked extensively with students with dyslexia, ADHD, learning disabilities, and executive functioning challenges. She is trained in multiple structured literacy and multisensory reading programs, as well as evidence-based writing and math intervention approaches. Her instruction is personalized, strengths-based, and designed to meet each student where they are while fostering meaningful growth, confidence, and independence.

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Kristi's extensive background in special education, assessment, and individualized learning planning allows her to create targeted interventions that address each student's unique needs while building lasting academic skills. She values collaboration and works closely with families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive, student-centered support.

Outside of her work with students, Kristi enjoys spending time with her husband and adult daughter. In her free time, she can often be found gardening, completing Sudoku puzzles, exercising, or enjoying life with her four entertaining dogs.

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Anissa Bush is an experienced educator with over 10 years of experience supporting elementary-aged learners in both public and private school settings. She currently teaches fourth grade at Manhattan Academy and works with students in grades 3–5, providing individualized academic support across reading, writing, and math. Anissa specializes in supporting students with ADHD, with a particular focus on building executive functioning skills and confidence alongside academic growth.

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Anissa takes a warm, relationship-driven approach to teaching, leading with an open heart and prioritizing a safe, trusting environment. Her instruction is flexible and responsive, designed to meet each child where they are and adapt to their unique learning style rather than relying on a single program or methodology. She is especially skilled at helping students feel successful, engaged, and capable as learners.

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Anissa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from California State University, Fullerton, and a Master’s degree in Education from Pacific Oaks College. She finds the greatest reward in seeing students enjoy learning and proudly reflect on what they’ve accomplished.

Outside of her work with students, Anissa enjoys traveling with her family, spending time with her dog, Lolli, and attending live music events.

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We’re always seeking passionate, skilled professionals who align with our boutique, integrative approach to education and wellness. Please reach out if you’re interested in collaborating with us.