Speechie Side Up

In this episode, I am joined by Stephanie Lo-Presti, an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist,as she introduces a comprehensive and innovative Speech and Language Protocol and Assessment Tool.

Designed to merge developmental psychology with speech-language pathology, this tool is particularly powerful for evaluating and treating children with diverse needs, including those who are clinically untestable.

Stephanie shares her extensive background and the motivation behind creating a dynamic assessment model that empowers SLPs to make intuitive, evidence-based clinical decisions.

The discussion provides an in-depth look at the protocol's unique features, such as its dynamic and flexible approach, its ability to identify a child's zone of proximal development, and its effectiveness in tracking and fostering real-world communication skills.

Stephanie also hints at future plans for digitalizing the tool into an app to further aid clinicians in their therapeutic endeavors.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Gabriella Gizzo, a licensed Speech Therapist and author, as she discuss her journey and inspirations behind her children's book 'Sophie's Special Story,' which aims to support SLPs in effectively targeting speech goals within high caseloads.

Gabriella delves into the publishing process, the benefits of her book for parents and teachers, and her experience working with children with visual and cognitive impairments. She also highlights the importance of incorporating playful elements into therapy, exemplified by the character Sophie.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Sharlet Jensen, author of 'Paws for Progress' and owner of Speech Dogs, as she discuss the wide scope of animal-assisted interventions beyond therapy dogs, incorporating various animals like cats, horses, and farm animals.

Sharlet shares her journey of integrating therapy dogs into her speech therapy practice, including the benefits, such as rapport building and sensory regulation, and challenges like liability insurance.

Sharlet also offers practical insights on selecting and working with therapy dogs, making a case for the potentials in the speech therapy field.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Erin Vance, a seasoned speech-language pathologist with 26 years of experience, as she shares invaluable advice for professionals in the field.

Erin emphasizes the importance of advocating for clients and oneself, even if it means simply showing up. She discusses the growing challenges within the field, particularly post-COVID, and the impact of social media on communication skills.

Erin also shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD and how it has reshaped her approach to her work.

She highlights the need for sensitivity and adaptability when working with diverse populations and stresses the power speech-language pathologists hold in making significant impacts. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Yehuda Joseph, a Speech-Language Pathologist as he shares his diverse experiences working full-time at the Kiryas Joel School District and part-time at Community Medical and Dental Care in New York.

Yehuda discusses his background, including dealing with his stutter as a child, and how this influenced his career choice. He also talks about the unique aspects of working within the Satmar ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, the challenges and joys of being a generalist in the medical and educational settings, and his fascination with radio and podcasts.

The conversation concludes with Yehuda’s thoughts on continuing education, particularly in the field of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and a reflection on navigating the dual roles of medical and educational SLP.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Karla Garcia as she shares her journey from humble beginnings to establishing her own practice, Leonia Speech and Language Services, LLC.

Karla discusses her dual experiences with privilege and minority challenges, how she overcame bullying and stuttering, and her advocacy for bilingual and minority families. She highlights the significance of support systems, her specialized approach to Gestalt Language Processing, and offers advice to minorities entering the field.

Karla also explains how she balances a full-time job with a growing private practice, and the importance of acceptance and diversity in speech therapy.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Laura Mansfield, a seasoned SLP and Special Education Administrator, shares insights on managing roles and responsibilities for public school SLPs.

She discusses the importance of understanding one's role within the educational system, overcoming burnout, and building positive relationships with teachers and administrators. Dr. Mansfield also offers tips on caseload management, shifting from a medical to an educational model, and finding systems to streamline SLP tasks. Resources and strategies for improving the impact and job satisfaction of school-based SLPs are highlighted.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Philip Long, a member of the 2023 Marquee Who's Who of America class, who overcame significant challenges due to dyslexia.

Philip shares his personal journey from struggling with reading and writing to achieving a bachelor's and master's degree despite reading at a fifth-grade level. He emphasizes the importance of support systems, advocacy, and tailored teaching methods.

Philip also provides practical tips for parents on supporting children with dyslexia and discusses how technology played a crucial role in bridging his learning gaps.

Learn how Philip is now dedicated to empowering parents and children through his work as an educational advocate and motivational speaker.

In this episode, I am joined by Marie Muratalla, a Pre-school Speech Language Pathologist as we discuss the importance of life-work balance, emphasizing the need for self-care and mindful practices in both personal and professional settings.

Marie shares practical tips on building a fulfilling life-work balance, incorporating mindfulness in speech therapy sessions, and the significance of gratitude.

She also talks about her own strategies, including journaling, affirmations, and being mindful of media consumption.

Marie offered insights into maintaining a positive mindset and building connections with clients through mindful practices, making it a valuable guide for SLPs and other professionals. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this panel discussion, we hear from expert speakers on trauma-informed care, Polyvagal Theory, executive functioning, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. We dive deeper into these topics, ask questions, and explore real-world strategies to support both neurodiverse and neurotypical children. Gain practical insights on fostering safety, integrating lived experiences, and enhancing interventions.

In this episode, I am joined by Devyn Heit, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist, and owner of Little Spark Speech in Arlington, VA.

Devyn shares her experiences and insights from working in early intervention and myofunctional therapy, highlighting the importance of early intervention in closing developmental gaps in children. She recounts her personal journey with myofunctional therapy and its benefits, the holistic approach to treatment, strategies to build rapport with clients, and the significance of caregiver involvement.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Sneha Susan Jacob, an ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience and now CEO of Italk Inc.

Susan's journey spans from India to the United States, working in diverse settings from schools to skilled nursing facilities.

She shares her passion for early intervention and her approach to therapy. Susan's path highlights the importance of cultural adaptation, work-life balance, and the role of families in speech therapy.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Samantha Novick, a Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Bridge Therapy in South Florida.

Samantha shares insights from her career, the importance of community support among professionals, and the role of mentorship. She highlights her achievements, including developing a virtual camp for individuals with disabilities and her involvement with various nonprofit organizations aimed at fostering inclusion and meaningful connections. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Christina Cahill Longo, a Speech-Language Pathologist & Orofacial Myologist.

Christina shares her journey from working in an acute medical setting to establishing a private practice in a school environment.

She emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset, both for children and their parents, advocating for a focus on emotional as well as academic needs. She also delves into her personal experiences with her children's speech and orthodontic challenges, which inspired her to further specialize in myofunctional therapy.

Through her compassionate approach, Christina aims to help children and parents navigate their unique challenges while emphasizing their diverse strengths. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Melissa Oliva, a Speech-Language Pathologist, as she shares insights into her methods for cultivating effective speech therapy practices.

Melissa discusses the importance of individualized and culturally responsive approaches, and strategies for gaining trust from teachers and parents. She highlights practical tips for balancing functional and academic goals, the benefits of effective communication, and maximizing the effectiveness of group sessions. Melissa also offers advice on building strong collaborations with educators and caregivers to enhance the success of speech therapy programs.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, we are joined by Paige O'Dwyer, a Speech-Language Pathologist and the Owner and Director of Communication Options, Inc.

Paige discusses the innovative approaches her practice takes in early childhood speech and language intervention, particularly through their Partners in Play program. This program focuses on providing a speech and language-rich, child-centered play environment for three-year-olds with severe communication needs.

Paige also shares her experience in balancing work and family life, offering insights on setting core values, maintaining flexibility, and the importance of continual growth and adaptation in the educational and therapeutic sectors. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Hallie Sherman, a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and CEO of Speech Time Fun, Inc, as we discuss effective strategies for motivating older speech students.

Hallie emphasizes the importance of understanding student resistance and building a compassionate rapport, as well as using student interests and flexible learning styles to drive engagement. She shares her journey from working in public schools to becoming a full-time support resource for SLPs, highlighting tools, techniques, and the impact of her work. Hallie gives actionable advice for SLPs and insights into creating a positive learning environment. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, we are joined by Amruta Potdar as we dive into creating successful therapy sessions using principles of mindfulness and Montessori.

With nearly 20 years of experience, Amruta shares her holistic approach to therapy and emphasizes the importance of a prepared child, adult, and environment in fostering communication and skill development. Amruta also discusses her bilingual and culturally responsive private practice, which focuses on pediatric speech and feeding therapy. She offers insights on balancing professional and personal life, client observation, and how following the child's lead can enhance therapy outcomes. She also gave invaluable strategies and examples of adapting environments and attitudes in therapeutic settings to support both children and parents effectively. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Sherry McMillan, author of 'My S's Are Messes.'

Sherry discusses her journey from avoiding writing about her speech sound disorders to embracing them in her acclaimed book, 'What the Seal Saw.'

Inspired by interactions with readers and Speech-Language Pathologists, she wrote a new book specifically for children with speech differences.

Sherry explains how the book uses energetic illustrations and word pictures to describe the experience of having a speech disorder.

Sherry also talks about collaborating with Speech-Language Pathologists and incorporating therapeutic elements into her story to make it a useful tool for families and professionals. She also discussed the importance of empathy, patience, and different communication methods, highlighting the significant role of support systems in treatment and daily interactions.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Lauren Hermann, a former medical Speech-Language Pathologist who transitioned into a career as a freelance copywriter.

Lauren shares her journey of combining her passion for Speech Language Pathology and writing into a viable career. Facing challenges like moving to a small town and the impact of COVID-19, Lauren turned to copywriting. She describes what copywriting entails, her daily work routine, and how she gained her first clients. Lauren also highlights the similarities between the skills needed as an SLP and those required in copywriting, and discusses the pros and cons of her new career.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Stephanie Michele Sweigart, an expert in mindfulness and compassion-based practices in special education, as we explore on the importance of self-advocacy for clinicians facing high caseloads and workloads.

Stepahie, certified as a teacher of mindfulness meditation and a speech-language pathologist, shares her insights from her course 'ShiftMakers: 1.0' and her work with various national organizations.

The discussion covers the four-step nonviolent communication framework—observation, feelings, needs, and requests—and provides strategies for effective and compassionate advocacy.

Clinicians are encouraged to understand their conflict response styles and practice mindfulness to create sustainable and fulfilling professional environments.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Jessie Kensey, a Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist and owner of Simply Speech Therapy, as she shares her journey from being a high school English teacher to starting her own private practice. She discusses the motivations behind starting her business, the importance of building rapport with clients, and how her understanding of Gestalt Language Processing impacts her work. Jessie also emphasizes the significance of early intervention, supporting neurodiversity, and the challenges and rewards of running a private practice. Her experience highlights both the professional and personal growth that comes with stepping into the world of private speech therapy.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Megan Hayes, MS, CCC-SLP, as we explore how working in a private practice setting differs from other professional environments.

The discussion focuses on the unique aspects, benefits, and challenges of private practice in comparison to alternative settings. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, we are joined by Martha Boiardt, an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist and founder of Miami Speech Therapy as she shares her expertise on bilingual speech therapy, discussing the importance of maintaining heritage languages while navigating language delays.

Martha addresses common challenges, including the lack of quality materials in Spanish and misconceptions about bilingualism. She also highlights her collaboration to create Spanish language therapy decks and offers practical tips for bilingual families. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Rachel May, a Speech Language Pathologist with over two decades of experience as we explore the challenges and benefits of pursuing entrepreneurship versus employment.

Rachel discusses her journey and the motivation behind starting her own private practice. She is also joined by her colleagues, Sheila and Amber, who bring extensive expertise in Occupational and Physical Therapy respectively. Their collaborative efforts demonstrate the holistic approach needed for comprehensive child development.

The conversation delves into the importance of interdisciplinary work, the evolving landscape of parenting influenced by societal and environmental factors, and the developmental significance of crawling. They also touch on topics like the impact of dietary and environmental toxins on child development and the benefits of telehealth in providing real-time, practical support to families.

Rachel and her team emphasize the importance of informed decisions and passionate commitment in entrepreneurship, while also acknowledging the security and benefits of a steady job. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Quinn Kelly as we delve into the intricacies of integrating AAC devices with ASL for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Quinn is a bilingual ASL-Fluent Certified Speech Language Pathologist in New York and New Jersey. Quinn shares insights on the historical use of AAC, its overprescription, and the importance of combining ASL with AAC.

She also discusses the cultural sensitivities in recommending AAC and offers practical strategies for SLPs working with this unique client population.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Gina Russell, the owner of Tiny Sparks, LLC, as we discuss her private coaching and consulting services designed to support parents and professionals in helping young children reach their full potential.

Gina explains the philosophy behind her diagnosis-free approach, aiming to assist families regardless of their current situation or readiness for formal diagnoses.

She highlights the key aspects of her services, including virtual coaching, personalized communication materials, and the importance of early childhood development.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Kellie Willis, a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in Early Intervention as we discuss the importance of education, relationships, and the use of AAC in empowering families and caregivers.

Kellie emphasizes the delicate and intimate nature of early intervention, the necessity of building trust with the family, and the significant role of parent coaching. She also shares her approach to integrating various tools, resources, and collaboration with other professionals to ensure holistic support for children's development. Kellie's practical tips and real-life examples provide valuable insights into promoting AAC awareness and effective early intervention strategies. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this episode, I am joined by Lisa Pugliese-Lacroix, a USPTA and PTR Elite Certified Tennis Professional and a certified Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in autism.

Lisa shares her journey of combining her passion for tennis with speech therapy to benefit children and adults with autism through her unique nonprofit organization, Love Serving Autism.

The conversation covers the organization's growth, its mission, and the various awards it has received for promoting inclusion in racket sports. Lisa explains how the program incorporates various therapies into tennis and pickleball sessions to enhance communication and social skills among participants. The episode also touches on the future goals for the organization, including establishing a dedicated facility and expanding training programs for coaches and therapists.

The discussion underscores the importance of SLPs trying new treatment settings and the broader benefits for both practitioners and their clients.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

In this throwback episode, I was joined by Dr. Kelly Farquharson, a Speech-Language Pathologist, Associate Professor, and Director of the Children’s Literacy and Speech Sound (CLaSS) Lab at Florida State University.

The mission of the CLaSS lab is to help children with speech and language impairments achieve classroom success.