Who We Are

ForWord Consulting LLC is a small company of independent college admissions counselors and educational consultants located inside the Northern Virginia beltway. 

Cathy Ganley, Owner and Senior College Counselor, has a background steeped in higher education. She understands the admissions process and hand holds each client through it, from choosing colleges, creating a working resume, preparing for the SATs/ACTs, completing applications, understanding financial aid, and applying for scholarships. ​ 

Cathy grew up in Arlington County, attended O'Connell High School, and raised her own children Fairfax County (TJ and McLean High Schools), which means she's got some serious insight into what's happening and why. 

Many call Cathy the "teen whisperer" because she understands how teens think and what they need for motivation. Cathy thinks that it's because she's tired of talking loudly to get her own children to listen but is grateful for the praise nonetheless. 



Dr. Jay Bass, Senior College Counselor, brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and success to ForWord Consulting in assisting secondary school families and their students.  In addition to a rewarding career in Fairfax County and Montgomery County Schools as a teacher, trainer, counselor and Director of Student Services, Dr. Bass has been assisting students with their college admissions process for over twenty years.  Dr. Bass has delivered seminars nationally to eductional staff and parents on topics ranging from risk, violence, and substance abuse prevention; to bullying, effective parenting and school staff collaboration.   

 Dr. Bass resides in Falls Church and is the proud parent of three happily launched adult children.

What We Do

​ForWord Consulting builds relationships to help your family meet its academic goals. We do this by asking questions, listening, creating plans, and encouraging your children in their pursuit of their academic goals, with as little family stress as possible.  

Where We Work

Our educational consultants and admissions coaches realize that student and family time is valuable. So ForWord comes to your house or location of your choice. No worries about traffic and working around basketball, cheerleading, drama or dance practice.