The art & science of applied psychology for real-world decisions.
Assessment | Consultation | Actionable Insights
Built on Trust,
Thriving on Decades of Results.
Since 1995.
Specialising in designing environments and solutions that allow people to move more easily through complexity.
The Mind is a Structure. Build Wisely.
Build
Something
Enduring.
____________
EDd, lep – CONSULTANT, ARCHITECT OF MIND
Kristen Nolfi
As one might trace the hidden beams of a well-built house, Kristen Nolfi maps the unseen frameworks of thought, behavior, and decision-making. In her work, the mind is like a carefully drawn blueprint—each cognitive and emotional space interconnected and responsive. With the precision of a systems analyst and the insight of a designer, she translates dynamic patterns into clear, actionable understanding. Her work bridges classical principles with contemporary insights into cognition and behavior.
This work supports decision-making for:
- Attorneys and guardians seeking developmentally grounded interpretations.
- School administrators navigating eligibility and behavioral concerns.
- Systems and agencies requiring neutral, thorough analysis.
- Parents, therapists, and parent coordinators needing a clear explanation of a child's learning or behavioral profile.
Credentials
Professional Biographical Sketch
Dr. Kristen D. Nolfi is an Educational Psychologist with over 30 years of experience working with children and adolescents with developmental and learning differences. She began her professional work in the mid-1990's in specialized educational settings, including the Curtis Blake Center at American International College, where she worked with children with developmental disabilities while completing her graduate training.
Dr. Nolfi holds a Master’s degree in Special Education, advanced graduate certification in Special Education & School Psychology, and a Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her academic training and professional development consistently focused on understanding the architecture of human cognition and how cognitive structure influences learning, behavior, and adaptation across educational and related environments.
Throughout her career, Dr. Nolfi has worked with children and families to support language development, academic growth, and social-emotional functioning. She has specialized training and professional expertise in autism, language development, reading disabilities (including dyslexia), ADHD, and related developmental differences.
In 2006, she began postdoctoral training in structural cognition through the Personality Assessment System (PAS), a rigorous, empirically grounded model used to understand cognitive style, behavioral organization, and adaptive functioning. This training became foundational to her work, sharpening her ability to interpret personality structure, synthesize multi-source data, and identify underlying patterns that influence behavior and decision-making.
Dr. Nolfi’s professional experience spans public and private schools, specialized programs including the May Institute, residential treatment settings, and collaboration with juvenile justice and child-welfare professionals. These environments have provided sustained exposure to how individuals respond to varying levels of structure, accountability, and environmental demands.
She is frequently consulted in court-adjacent educational and family matters where clarity, neutrality, and precision are essential. Her work emphasizes interpretation and synthesis—helping professionals understand behavioral patterns, clarify complex questions, and determine appropriate next steps within established systems.
Dr. Nolfi’s professional experience spans public and private schools, specialized programs including the May Institute, residential treatment settings, and collaboration with juvenile justice and child-welfare professionals. These environments have provided sustained exposure to how individuals respond to varying levels of structure, accountability, and environmental demands.
She is frequently consulted in court-adjacent educational and family matters where clarity, neutrality, and precision are essential. Her work emphasizes interpretation and synthesis—helping professionals understand behavioral patterns, clarify complex questions, and determine appropriate next steps within established systems.
Dr. Nolfi practices as a neutral professional consultant providing structural clarity to support informed, responsible decision-making. Over the course of her career, she has completed thousands of assessments, behavioral analyses, and consultations. She is known for her:
- Precision in analyzing cognitive and behavioral data
- Calm, structured professional presence
- Strengths in pattern recognition and synthesis
- Skill in interviewing and corroborating multi-source organization
- Neutral, solution-orientated communication
- Deep respect for procedural clarity and legally guided processes
Her professional identity centers on structural cognition, investigative reasoning, and systems-level analysis, integrating architectural thinking with applied psychological insight. Through her framework, Architecture of Mind, Dr. Nolfi bridges psychology, systems design, and interpretive analysis—offering individuals and organizations a grounded, coherent foundation for durable and trustworthy outcomes.
Resume
Dr. Kristen D. Nolfi
Prioritizes adaptability in professional practice, tailoring approaches to the specific demands of each matter. Across educational, investigative, and consultative contexts, applies rigorous fact-finding, structured interviews, and multi-source evidence analysis to support clear, evidence-based conclusions. Emphasizes disciplined reasoning, confidentiality, and practical insight to equip organizations and individuals to make informed, confident decisions.
EDUCATION
Doctor of Educational Psychology, with honors | American International College, Springfield, MA (2006)
Master of Arts, Special Education, with honors | Master of Arts, School Psychology (APA-accredited), with honors | American International College, Springfield, MA
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Teaching (double major), with honors | Western New England University, Springfield, MA (1994)
ADVANCED & CONTINUING EDUCATION
Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology (William James College) | Boston, MA | Child & Family Forensics Certificate Program (2019 - 2021)
Harvard University, Chan School of Public Health, Cambridge, MA | Continuing Education Training, Child Protection and Human Rights Law, J. Bhaba Certificate (2021)
Center of Excellence for Children, Families and the Law, Boston, MA | Continuing Education Training, Overcoming Barriers (2018, 2021)
Yale Summer Series on Autism & Related Disorders (2020), F. Volkmar
PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE
Massachusetts, Licensed Educational Psychologist (2017 – Present)
Massachusetts, Licensed School Psychologist (2005 – Present)
Massachusetts, Licensed Educator, 5-8; 9-12 (1996 – 2008)
CERTIFICATION
- Probate and Family Court Standing Order 1-17 (Parent Coordination requirements met)
- Mediation & Conflict Resolution
- American Board of Vocational Experts (Eligibility and renewal requirements met; renewal in progress)
PRACTICE AREAS
• Structured & Psychoeducational Assessment: Interpretation of cognitive, emotional, and functional patterns to clarify needs and support decision-making.
• Investigative & Fact-Finding: Neutral clarification of facts through structured interviews, record reviews, and multi-source analysis.
• Systems Analysis & Case Clarification: Identification of structural and communication factors affecting outcomes across systems.
• Educational Consultation: Interpretation of assessment findings to guide educational planning and support.
• Behavior & Functional Pattern Analysis: Analysis of behavior and contextual influences to clarify function and inform appropriate responses.
• Court-Adjacent Professional Consultation: Consultative support in educational and family matters.
• Mediation & Conflict Resolution: Structured facilitation to promote communication, understanding, and resolution.
EMPLOYMENT
Consultant Educational Psychology Practice, Longmeadow, MA (2017 - Present) | Licensed Educational Psychologist, Case Analyst
- Conduct psychoeducational assessments of cognitive abilities, social-emotional, and adaptive functioning.
- Synthesize multi-source evidence to support conclusions and recommendations on educational, behavioral, and procedural concerns.
- Guide parents, teachers, and administrators on assessment results, IEP development, and instructional strategies.
- Conduct functional behavior assessments and create behavior intervention plans.
- Consult with attorneys, GALs, and CLPs on educational and behavioral factors.
Springfield & Chicopee Public Schools (2006 – 2022) | Licensed School Psychologist
- Provided psychological services in urban school systems, including assessments, interviews, and confidential documentation.
- Prepared evidence-based reports for legal compliance and participated in due process hearings.
- Collaborated with administrators on student conduct, safety, and crisis management.
Hampden County Sheriff’s Department (2017 – 2018) | Forensic Mental Health Clinician
- Conducted risk assessments and structured interviews in correctional settings.
- Collaborated with clinical, medical, and administrative teams to ensure confidentiality and security protocols.
- Provided short-term therapy and co-taught psycho-education in substance abuse programs.
- Participated in formal weekly supervision.
Hampden County District Attorney’s Office (1992 – 1994) | Victim-Witness Advocate
- Offered emotional support and guidance to victims and witnesses through the court process.
- Ensured victims' rights were upheld, including case updates and safety coordination with law enforcement.
- Facilitated referrals to community resources and assisted with post-conviction processes while maintaining confidentiality.
Brennan & Couchon Associate (2008 – 2014) | Postdoctoral Research and Training
- Completed multi-year training in the Personality Assessment System (PAS) to analyze cognitive structures and behavioral patterns.
- Conducted research and data analysis to refine psychological assessment techniques and improve clinical applications.
Westfield State University & Cambridge College (2005 – 2009) | Professor of Psychology & Education
- Taught graduate and undergraduate courses on behavior analysis, personality theory, and learning processes.
- Developed applied coursework and mentored students in psychological theories and educational strategies.
SELECTED SPECIALIZED TRAINING & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Child & Family Forensics Graduate Certificate Program, William James College
- Juvenile justice, neuroscience, and law
- Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) Member, professional development
- Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) peer-group consultancy
- Overcoming Barriers – Parent-Child Contact Problems
- SAIN Interviewing
- The Department of Children & Families (DCF) consultant
- Mediation Certificate
- Parent Coordination, Standing Order 1-17 requirements met
CHILD & FAMILY FORENSICS / FAMILY LAW POLICY TRAINING (2012 – Present)
- Completed approximately 6,200 hours of combined formal graduate-level training, certificate coursework, continuing legal and forensic education, independent research, and applied professional experience related to child and family forensics, custody matters, probate and family law systems, court rules, and family law policy.
- Formal training includes completion of the Child & Family Forensics Graduate Certificate Program at William James College, along with advanced coursework and continuing education in child protection, family law policy, court-involved family systems, and parent–child contact issues.
- Ongoing professional development through AFCC, peer consultation groups, policy-focused training programs, and interdisciplinary legal–psychological education.
Courtroom Experience & Legal Process Exposure
- Had direct courtroom involvement in three full trials, including pre-trial preparation, in-court testimony, and evidentiary proceedings.
- Provided testimony on numerous occasions during motion hearings, status conferences, and abbreviated proceedings.
- Observed and engaged in over 800 docket hearings (approximately 1,600 hours), involving courtroom procedure, testimony processes, and case management practices.
Legal Research, Drafting & Policy Work
- Drafted motions, modifications, contempts, and findings of fact under attorney and court-directed contexts.
- Completed approximately 4,400 hours of legal research, record review, statutory and policy analysis, and written case-related documentation.
Court-Related Evaluation Exposure
- Had exposure to four court-related evaluation matters, involving structured interviews, record review, and applied forensic methodology, without serving as the appointed forensic evaluator.
PUBLIC SERVICE ACTIVITIES
- Dyslexia Resource Guide, Springfield Public Schools, Committee Writer (2019-2020)
- Autism Speaks, Volunteer Referral Support (2017-2018)
- Holy Name Hockey League, W. Springfield, Volunteer Coordinator (2016-2017)
- Cub Scout Troop 48, Boy Scouts of America, Springfield, Co-Leader (2016–2017)
- Girls Lacrosse Team, Longmeadow, Assistant Coach (2014)
- Brownie Girl Scout Troop 269, Girl Scouts of America, Longmeadow, Co-Leader (2005–2007)
- The Renaissance Club, Agawam H.S. and Pathfinder H.S., Co-Chair (1996-2000)
- Brightside for Children and Families, W. Springfield, Volunteer (1996-1997)
- Richard F. Nolfi Scholarship Foundation, Fairfield H.S., Fairfield, CT, Co-President (1995-1999)
- Psi Chi Honors Society, Western New England University, Secretary (1992)
PAST & PRESENT AFFILIATIONS
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Autism Speaks
- Massachusetts Association of School Psychologists (MASP)
- Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC)
- Citizens for Juvenile Justice (CfJJ)
- American Board of Vocational Experts (ABVE)
- The Personality Assessment System Foundation (PASF)
Educational Psycho-Legal Consultation
Overview
Developmentally Informed Foundation
Dr. Nolfi’s psycho-legal consultation developed through long-standing roles in educational, clinical, correctional, and court-adjacent settings. Her work began in response to requests for developmentally grounded interpretation in complex cases involving disability, behavior, and system response. Early involvement in manifestation determination hearings and disability clarification—particularly delineating between an emotional disorder versus an emotional impairment—as eligibility-related classifications, led to ongoing consultation with attorneys, school personnel, and interdisciplinary teams.
Over time, her work expanded to include collaboration with out-of-district and alternative educational programs, correctional facilities, child-welfare professionals, guardians ad litem, and parent coordinators. This cross-system experience informs her ability to provide clear, scope-appropriate psycho-legal context across educational settings, and appropriate consultation across child-welfare and court-adjacent settings.
Professional Orientation and Approach
Dr. Nolfi’s consultation is neutral, educational-clinical, and developmentally informed. Her work focuses on developmental logic, cognitive structure, and pattern analysis to clarify how individuals interpret questions, manage stress, communicate under pressure, and respond to unfamiliar or adversarial environments.
She assists decision-makers in understanding how cognitive and developmental profiles, environmental demands, and stressors may influence observed behavior and presentation. Her role is consultative and interpretive.
Value to Legal and Administrative Decision-Makers
Behavior that appears inconsistent, oppositional, evasive, or non-credible may reflect developmental, cognitive, perceptual, or stress-related factors rather than intent. These may include:
- Developmental differences
- Trauma-related responses
- Cognitive or language-based communication styles
- Cognitive load under stress
- Difficulty processing complex or rapid questioning
Dr. Nolfi helps attorneys, guardians ad litem, child-welfare professionals, and court-adjacent teams understand:
- How developmental or cognitive profiles may influence behavior and communication.
- When observed behavior aligns with disability-related functioning versus situational stress.
- How communication differences may affect perceived credibility or contribute to misunderstanding.
- The developmental meaning of behavior described in interviews, reports, or records
She provides developmentally grounded context that supports accurate interpretation and reduces the risk of misattribution in high-stakes decision-making.
Areas of Contribution
Dr. Nolfi provides scope-appropriate psycho-legal consultation in cases involving:
- Complex custody or co-parenting disputes, when child has a disability
- Parent Coordinator assistance in parent coordination
- Child-welfare involvement and safety concerns
- Trauma, stress, or anxiety affecting behavior
- Manifestation determinations and juvenile justice contexts
- School-law due process and civil rights matters
- High-conflict family systems
- Disability-related communication or functional-capacity questions
- Interpretation of behavior during interviews, investigations, or system transitions
- Her work centers on record review, pattern analysis, and structured explanation of developmental contributors to behavior.
Training and Licensure
- Licensed Educational Psychologist
- Licensed School Psychologist
- Child and Family Forensics Certificate Program, William James College
- Mediation and Conflict Resolution Certificate
- Probate and Family Court Standing Order 1-17 requirements met
- Postdoctoral study in the Personality Assessment System (PAS)
- Overcoming Barriers: Parent–Child Contact Matters
- ABVE (Vocational Expert), renewal in progress
- Yale Summer Series on Autism & Related Disorders, F. Volkmar
- Harvard Continuing Education, Chan School of Public Health, Child Protective Services Certificate, J. Bhabha
- Police Policy Studies
Professional Philosophy
Dr. Nolfi prioritizes:
- Accuracy over assumption
- Developmental logic over surface interpretation
- Context over speculation
- Clear role and licensure boundaries
- Neutrality and procedural respect
- Clarity that supports—rather than replaces—legal judgment
Her goal is to provide clear, reliable, developmentally informed explanation that assists decision-makers in navigating complex cases with greater accuracy and confidence.
*Dr. Nolfi’s services are strictly consultative in nature. She does not provide custody recommendations, or conduct formal forensic evaluations where she offers opinions on your ultimate legal matters.
References
Formal professional references are available on LinkedIn under the name Kristen Nolfi.
Services