Our approacH

At Discover Without Barriers Consulting, our approach is defined by the Transformative Advising Model. Developed by Dr. Clyde Barnett III through extensive research into P-20 education spaces, this model serves as the strategic framework for DWB consulting. We partner with institutions to move beyond traditional, transactional support toward a justice-oriented practice that empowers both leaders and the communities they serve. 

Our consulting methodology is built upon three integrated pillars: transformative leadership, proactive advising, and critical self-reflection. 

We guide organizations in adopting a transformative leadership lens (Shields, 2010, 2011, 2017, 2020) that is rooted in equity and deep institutional change. DWB can help you: 

• Deconstruct and Reconstruct: Identify and dismantle knowledge frameworks that perpetuate inequity.

• Address Power Imbalances: Analyze and redistribute power to ensure a focus on collective good, democracy, and justice.

• Balance Critique with Promise: Move from identifying systemic barriers to implementing actionable, hopeful solutions.

Effective consulting requires proactive advising (Canon, 2013; Varney, 2012). Our approach is centered on being "intrusive without intruding"—providing the "tough love" and critical information necessary for growth while remaining a warm and inviting partner. This involves:

• Targeted Inquiry: Using pointed, open-ended questions to uncover the specific needs of your students and staff.

• Early Intervention: Approaching challenges before they develop into crises to ensure long-term institutional success.

• Tailored Support: Educating stakeholders on their options and motivating them to take agency in their own development.

Sustainable change begins internally. We facilitate a process of critical self-reflection (Khalifa, Gooden, & Davis, 2016) for leaders and advisors to ensure their work is intentional and impactful. Through this process, we:

• Unearth Bias: Identify the personal assumptions and values that shape institutional culture.

• Develop Critical Consciousness: Shift the mindset of leadership to become more culturally responsive and activism-oriented.

• Foster Personal Growth: Ensure that leaders are not just managing systems, but are evolving as advocates for their students.