Dr. Ilardi completed her education and training as a neuropsychologist at Emory University, Grady Health System, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA). She then worked at CHOA for over 16 years, and became board certified as a Clinical Neuropsychologist and certified as a Pediatric Neuropsychologist by the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABPP).

She has experience with nearly all pediatric medical and neurological conditions, from initial diagnosis or injury to recurrent and stable conditions. Dr. Ilardi understands various types of neurodevelopmental disorders, including learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, intellectual disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and communication disorders.

Dr. Ilardi developed a specialization in working with children who have heart disease. This included leadership in the Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program at CHOA and the international Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Outcome Collaborative (CNOC).  She continues to be active in research with scientists throughout the country. She has given many presentations in professional settings, family support groups, and educational meetings, and published in scientific journals and books.

Being part of a large healthcare system gave Dr. Ilardi a wide breadth of knowledge about development.  It helped her gain perspective about ways to prioritize and expand clinical care.  After working with children who were at highest risk, and studying the science behind how they thrive, she knows that families are one of the most important factors. Caregivers need more resources. This led her to begin a private practice with a focus on guiding and empowering families to support their children.