Administration

Richard G. Collins, Ph.D.

Executive Director/Head of School

Richard G. Collins, Ph.D received his doctorate from St. Louis University and has completed post-doctorial work at both Boston College and Southern Illinois University. He is also the Chief Executive Officer of Brehm’s OPTIONS program, which helps adults with Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorder in their transition to college. He is a former faculty member at Leslie University, where he was the Lab School Director, and he has served as an adjunct faculty member at Harvard University, Boston College, Font Bonne University, and other colleges. Dr. Collins has been an administrator and teacher in both public and private schools and often serves as a consultant for start-up schools. His strategic planning work has included facilitating future development and adapting research in schools. He sits on several boards of directors of both local and national organizations that work with special needs students, including non-profit schools. Dr. Collins is also a recognized authority on Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorder and is frequently called upon to lecture and present at conferences on these subjects. He brings a personal understanding to these topics, as he has ADD and is an adult dyslexic himself.

Brian P. Brown, Ph.D.

Associate Director

Dr. Brian Brown has 22 years of experience working with students who have complex learning difficulties and other co-morbid related issues. Dr. Brown holds a Ph.D in Educational Psychology in Counseling, is a Licensed Social Worker, and holds a School Social Work Certification. He serves on the Illinois North Central Association State Board and has received the Southern Illinois University Alumnus of the Year Award from the School of Social Work.

Terri Lynn Douglas
Coordinator of Educational Services

Terri Douglas has worked in the education field for more than 20 years. A native of Nebraska, she received her Bachelor of Science degree from Hastings College in Elementary Education and Special Education. As a member of the Carbondale community, she earned a Master’s Degree in Education and is currently working on a second Master’s Degree in Administration from Southern Illinois University. Terri holds teaching certification as a Learning Behavior Specialist I, which qualifies her to teach K-12 students. Additionally, she makes presentations regularly at local, state, and national conferences and workshops. In the year 2000, The Wal-Mart Foundation recognized Terri as Teacher of the Year.


M. Brad Sims, M.S.,CCC-SLP
Coordinator of Speech-Language Pathology

Brad Sims brings six years of experience as a teacher of students with special needs and another 21 years as a speech-language pathologist. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences. Brad’s breadth of experience includes teaching and curriculum design, consulting, and diagnostic and therapy services in public and private schools, hospitals, rehabilitation programs, and private practice settings.