Maura S.D.

At New Frontiers, Maura works closely with clients to strengthen executive functioning skills, build self-awareness, and develop strategies that empower them to pursue their goals with confidence. She is particularly skilled at supporting high school students, college students, and adults as they navigate transitions, balance responsibilities, and develop the tools needed to thrive in academic, professional, and personal settings. Known for her thoroughness, insight, and encouragement, Maura brings both expertise and empathy to her coaching partnerships. 

Maura’s academic and professional background is extensive. She earned a PhD in Developmental Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she focused on the development of autism and self-regulation skills during parent–child interactions. She also holds a Master of Science in Psychology from Villanova University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education from Saint Joseph’s University, where she also earned teaching certifications in New York. Currently an Assistant Professor, Maura conducts research on autism and ADHD from toddlerhood through adolescence, with a focus on social development and self-regulation. She also serves as the Operations Manager of a center dedicated to promoting education, outreach, and research on issues impacting girls and women with ADHD. 

In addition to her academic work, Maura has completed specialized training in Executive Skills Coaching with Dr. Peg Dawson and parent workshops developed by Cindy Goldrich, including Calm and Connected: Parenting Children & Teens with ADHD/Executive Function Challenges© and ADHD & Executive Function Challenges: The Social & Emotional Impact on Learning, Motivation, Behavior, and the Family System©. She has mentored numerous undergraduate and medical students, supporting them in developing research and writing skills while deepening their knowledge of autism, ADHD, and child development. Through her coaching experience, she has worked extensively with autistic women and women with ADHD, helping them understand their strengths, recognize areas for growth, and use environmental supports to achieve success. 

Outside of her professional life, Maura is a lifelong learner and an energetic advocate for young people and families. She is passionate about fitness and makes exercise a daily part of her routine, often running while listening to podcasts and audiobooks on parenting, ADHD, and executive functioning. She has completed several half-marathons and recently achieved her goal of finishing her first full marathon. Above all, Maura treasures her role as a mom and loves spending time with her children, whether supporting their passions, playing games, or exploring new places together. 

At New Frontiers, Maura supports clients in developing practical skills such as organization, planning, time management, and task initiation, while also focusing on flexibility, motivation, and self-advocacy. She helps individuals build self-regulation strategies and confidence in navigating transitions, balancing demands, and sustaining progress over time. Her unique blend of academic expertise, coaching training, and personal dedication allows her to provide thoughtful, individualized support that fosters both immediate growth and long-term independence.