I’m so glad you're here.

Whether you're seeking answers, support, or simply a place to begin, I hope Tea Olive Collective feels like a place where you are seen, understood, and encouraged.

I'm Dr. Kate Parker, a Licensed Psycho-Educational Specialist (LPES #4866) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) based in Pawleys Island, South Carolina.

My journey to private practice has been shaped by years of experience as a teacher, school psychologist, consultant, university instructor, researcher, and district leader. I earned my Doctor of Education in School Psychology from Loyola University Chicago and completed graduate training in Educational Psychology at the University of Georgia. Throughout my career, I have partnered with children, adolescents, young adults, families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams to answer complex questions about learning, development, and wellbeing. I am passionate about translating research into thoughtful, practical guidance that helps people better understand themselves, recognize their strengths, and make informed decisions with confidence.

I founded Tea Olive Collective to create a practice where psychology and education come together to foster a deeper understanding of the whole person. Through comprehensive evaluation, consultation, and professional development, my goal is to help individuals, families, educators, and organizations find clarity through thoughtful, evidence-based services that honor each person's unique strengths, experiences, and story.

At the heart of my work is a simple belief: understanding is one of the greatest gifts we can offer ourselves and one another. When we better understand how a person learns, thinks, feels, and experiences the world, we are better equipped to provide support that honors their unique strengths, recognizes their potential, and helps them thrive in ways that are meaningful to them.

The name Tea Olive Collective carries special meaning for me. The tea olive tree is an evergreen known for its quiet beauty and fragrant blossoms. Although its flowers are small, their fragrance travels far, reminding us that lasting impact often comes through gentle presence, faithful care, and the small moments that often matter most. These values shape my work and reflect the kind of practice I strive to create: one where people feel welcomed, understood, and supported.

My approach to assessment is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in the science of human development and wellbeing. I believe evaluations should do more than answer questions or identify challenges. They should help people recognize their strengths, better understand how they learn and experience the world, and leave with practical recommendations that support meaningful participation at home, school, work, and within their communities.

As a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) with additional training in mindfulness and social-emotional learning, I bring a deep appreciation for the connection between mind, body, emotions, and learning into every evaluation, consultation, and training. While these are not services I currently offer, they continue to shape the calm, whole-person perspective I bring to my work.

Outside of my work, you'll often find me exploring the marshes and beaches of the South Carolina coast with my family, tending to my garden, baking sourdough, or enjoying a good book with a cup of coffee. Living near the ocean continually reminds me that understanding, meaningful change, and wellbeing unfold in their own time. Like the tides, each person's journey is unique and worthy of patience, curiosity, and care.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little about me. It is a privilege to partner with individuals, families, educators, and organizations as they seek greater understanding, and I would be honored to be part of your journey.

With kindness,

Kate