09/10/2026
The kids are back in school — congrats to all the parents who got everyone up and out the door today! I may not have school-aged kids anymore, but I remember back-to-school season well: new schedules, new routines, new everything. It's a lot, but it's also exciting — a fresh start for the whole family. If you want a little extra support settling into the new season, check out these local businesses. From tutoring and therapy to IT services, each one can help make the transition a smooth one.
📚 Hodis Learning & Music: Drew Hodis has served his hometown of South Pasadena for over a decade, starting as an individual tutor at South Pasadena High School. He founded Hodis Learning & Music in 2021 and now offers personalized in-home and online tutoring for all K-12 subjects, plus music and art lessons. What sets Drew apart: he's not just focused on grades. With a background in academic tutoring and a PhD in Clinical Psychology underway, he brings confidence and encouragement to every student he works with.
🤝 Patrick Orr, AMFT: For a lot of kids, teens, and parents, back-to-school is an emotional transition too. Patrick Orr is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist offering affirmative, trauma-informed therapy for children, teens, and adults. His approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation — helping clients work through anxiety, life transitions, identity, and more. If you or someone in your family could use a little extra support this fall, Patrick is a wonderful resource.
💻 Planet Cyber: Cracked screen. Slow WiFi. Laptop that's seen better days. Planet Cyber has been solving exactly these problems for San Fernando Valley families and small businesses for over 20 years — and they're now serving South Pasadena. From device repairs to home network setup, cybersecurity, and small business IT support, they handle it all personally. No big-box runaround.
A little help can go a long way! If you or your child needs support, I hope you'll reach out to one of these resources and let them know Girl Friday sent you. 💛
