NW Reading Clinic | Learning Disability Support | Portland

ABOUT US

After working hard in class and at home, Emily scored below grade level in her state reading test. That prompted us to try Northwest Reading Clinic. We have been thoroughly impressed with the professionalism, one-on-one work environment, and learner-friendly atmosphere. The proof is in the pudding. Emily scored ABOVE grade level in the next state reading test. Along with her score, her self-confidence and self-esteem soared. That was immeasurable."
- Mary H., parent

Northwest Reading Clinic, Inc. opened in 1985. We are currently celebrating 40 years in business and are honored to continue serving the metro communities across Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA. Now offering online and hybrid services, we are thrilled to reach those further afield who normally would be unable to attend daily in-person sessions.

Our students work one-on-one with experienced, thoroughly trained clinicians. We strive to match each student with a clinician whose unique gifts and background make learning at Northwest Reading Clinic effective and fun. Our clinicians include individuals with a wide range of skills, interests, and expertise. All have experience working with children in the field of education and all have been thoroughly trained in our specific methods of instruction. All Northwest Reading Clinic staff have a Bachelor's degree, and many also have teaching credentials or Master's degrees. The majority of our staff have been with our clinic for ten years and more, and we are proud to provide treatment from seasoned clinicians with long and experienced service records. All staff have also passed a thorough background check.

In 2002, Northwest Reading Clinic paired with The Smith Foundation. In so doing, we are able to offer the same services free of charge to two North Portland public schools. We are grateful to The Smith Foundation for their continued partnership, which aids us in serving students in these under-resourced schools.

NWRC Staff

LESLIE J.W. GREGER
Director & Owner

I am the new Director of Northwest Reading Clinic, a place that has been my professional home for 37 years. The majority of my career at the clinic has been in the role of Assistant Director. I am excited for this next chapter! My passion for improving literacy in children and adults is what drives me every day. I've had the incredible privilege of watching students I taught years ago now bring their own children to us. It's a testament to the lasting impact of proven reading interventions and a legacy I'm proud to continue building. My goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment for every person seeking our services. When I'm not at the clinic, you'll likely find me with a book in hand or enjoying time out in nature. My favorite place to be is on the Oregon Coast! My greatest joys come from spending time with my amazing adult twins and my loyal and hilarious friends.

STEPHANIE GEORGILAS
Vancouver Manager & Clinician

Born into a vibrant Greek family in sunny Los Angeles, I grew up with a love for language, food, and lively conversation. After earning a Master’s Degree in Education from UC Santa Barbara, I made my way north and have spent nearly 15 years helping students unlock the power of reading at Northwest Reading Clinic. My approach is both rigorous and compassionate. I believe reading is not just a skill—it’s a doorway to connection, self-expression, and independence. When I’m not guiding students through complex decoding strategies, you’ll find me tuned in to NBA basketball, cooking with unapologetic amounts of spice, or baking treats that somehow disappear faster than I can make them. I’m an adventurous eater and weekend wanderer, always on the lookout for hidden gem restaurants, used bookstores, and quiet trails around the Pacific Northwest.

REGAN BRIGGS
School Projects Manager & Clinician

I am the School Projects Manager at Northwest Reading Clinic, where I’ve spent the past twenty years supporting students and clinicians. I especially enjoy working in the two elementary schools the clinic serves in North Portland—where no two days are ever the same (and that’s half the fun). Outside of work, I hang out with my loyal sidekick Bruno the dog, play word games, get lost in good books and better conversations, and occasionally attempt new crafts—always with beginner-level results. I also have a lifelong fascination with geography and maps.

DIANE M.W. BUDDEN
Founder (1985-2025)

Diane MW Budden, M.S. Ed., has a rich history with the Lindamood-Bell programs. Beginning in 1978, she spent seven years working directly with the innovators behind key learning programs: Pat and Charles Lindamood (developers of the LiPS® program for phonological awareness) and Nanci Bell (creator of the Visualizing & Verbalizing® program for comprehension and the Seeing Stars® program).

Building on this expertise, Diane established Northwest Reading Clinic, Inc. in 1985. She served as its director for forty years, expanding its reach from a single clinic in Portland, Oregon, to an additional office in Vancouver, Washington, and several local schools. Leslie Greger, who was Diane's third employee, now leads the clinic. The clinic's team of highly-trained clinicians continues to use a combination of techniques, including the suite of Lindamood-Bell® programs, to treat students with learning disabilities.