You’re listening to the Speechie Side Up podcast hosted by author, AAC specialist, and matcha tea lover, Venita Litvack! Every week, you get to hear what other SLPs are doing in the field and how they found their passion. This podcast was created to help YOU stop re-inventing the wheel and start loving your job again!
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241: The One About a New Speech & Language Assessment Tool
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42:04In 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 div…
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Business Connect Series: Top 10 Books to Get your Business Idea off the Ground
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17:57This episode is part of the SLP Business Connect Series, we share our top 10 favorite business books and discuss key takeaways and personal insights that can help entrepreneurs launch or grow their businesses. We also talk about practical tools and resources like profit calculators and name checkers to help entrepreneurs with branding, marketing, f…
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Business Connect Series: 30 Non-Traditional Side Hustles You Can Do with Your SLP Degree
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33:38This episode is part of the SLP Business Connect series, where we explore 30 different side hustle ideas for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to utilize their degrees beyond traditional roles. We discuss various categories such as physical and digital products, service-based businesses, startups, and more. We also cover opportunities in creating…
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Business Connect Series: How to Match Your School Salary with Only 10 Sessions a Week
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22:49This episode is part of the SLP Business Connect Series, where we discuss invaluable tips and personal experiences for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) beginning their journey in private practice. The discussion includes advice on setting boundaries, understanding one’s skill set, and identifying ideal clients to help grow and enjoy the business…
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[Podcourse] Part 2: Reframing ABA: A Neurodiversity Affirming Approach for Parents and Practitioners
33:27
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33:27In this episode, I am joined by Jenny Lai, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and co-host of the 'Not a Tiger Mom Podcast,' as we discuss how to reframe Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a neurodiversity affirming approach for parents and practitioners. The episode covers defining neurodiversity affirming ABA, key differences from traditional AB…
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[Podcourse] Part 1: Reframing ABA: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach for Parents & Practitioners
37:29
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37:29In this episode, I am joined by Jenny Lai, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and co-host of the 'Not a Tiger Mom Podcast,' as we discuss how to reframe Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a neurodiversity affirming approach for parents and practitioners. The episode covers defining neurodiversity affirming ABA, key differences from traditional AB…
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240: The One About Targeting the /s/ Sound with Stories
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12:37In 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 p…
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[Podcourse] Part 2: Behavior is Communication: Tools for Supporting Autistic Expression
30:00
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30:00In this episode, I am joined by Susan Golubock, an autistic Occupational Therapist and advocate, to explore why autistic communication is often misunderstood wherein she highlights two main reasons: subconscious biases about communication and neurological differences experienced by autistics. Susan shares her insights into interpreting behaviors as…
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[Podcourse] Part 1: Behavior is Communication: Tools for Supporting Autistic Expression
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30:01In this episode, I am joined by Susan Golubock, an autistic Occupational Therapist and advocate, to explore why autistic communication is often misunderstood wherein she highlights two main reasons: subconscious biases about communication and neurological differences experienced by autistics. Susan shares her insights into interpreting behaviors as…
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239: The One About Animal-Assisted Interventions
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21:12In 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, includ…
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238: The One About Advocating Effectively and Embracing Diversity in Speech-Language Pathology
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25:25In 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 …
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237: The One About Working in Various SLP Settings
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17:32In 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 choi…
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236: The One About Breaking Barriers as a Minority SLP Entrepreneur
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30:04In 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 hig…
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235: The One About Finding Joy as a Public School SLP!
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27:09In 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 admi…
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234: The One About Navigating Dyslexia From Educational Struggles to Advocacy Success
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22:57In 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 s…
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233: The One About Bringing Mindfulness into Speech Therapy Sessions
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30:09In 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 …
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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, integ…
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232: The One About Early Intervention, Myo Insights, and Building Unbreakable Bonds in Therapy
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20:14In 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 …
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This is a sneak peek episode for the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect, which is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. Register here to be part of Behavior Connect.
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231: [Behavior Connect Series] The One About Using a Compassionate Mindset to Co-Regulate with your Clients
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35:59This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Julia Kharlamenko, M.S. CCC-SLP TSSLD B.E as we discuss the principles of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and their appli…
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230: [Behavior Connect Series] The One About Incorporating Multi-modal Communication for Neurodivergent Individuals
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15:54This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Katelyn Kelps, an experienced SLP passionate about AAC and neurodiversity affirming practices, as we explore multimodal …
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229: [Behavior Connect Series] The One About Working with Medically Fragile Patients
18:13
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18:13This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Claire Mirvis, a first-year Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) working in an educational-medical hybrid setting within a …
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228: [Behavior Connect Series] The One About Writing Strength's Based IEPs
18:05
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18:05This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Brooke Sheaffer, a Speech Language Pathologist, as we discuss the importance of embracing neurodiversity within school s…
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227: [Behavior Connect Series] The One About Polyvagal Communication Theory
22:34
22:34
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22:34This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Jacqueline Jebian Garcia, a neurodivergent Speech-Language Pathologist and Socio-Emotional Coach, as we discuss Polyvaga…
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226: [Behavior Connect Series] The One About Supporting Disabled Individuals: A Guide for Able-Bodied Allies
26:10
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26:10This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Sophie-Anais Renois, a Speech-Language Pathologist in her clinical fellowship year. Sophie shares her personal experienc…
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225: The One About an SLP's Journey in EI: From Cultural Insights to Toddler Tips
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25:54In 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 t…
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224: The One About Friendship and Community
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31:00In 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 disabili…
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223: The One About Advocacy, OMT, and Private Practice
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34:07In this episode, I am joined by Christina Cahill Longo, aSpeech-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 o…
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222: The One About Working Smarter & Not Harder in the Schools
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17:56In 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 f…
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221: The One About How to Adapt Your Offerings for Your Clients' Evolving Needs
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30:19In 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…
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220: The One About Working with Older Speech Students
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39:39In 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 le…
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219: The One About Incorporating Mindfulness and Montessori in Therapy
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32:23In 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 develop…
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218: The One About How Speech-Language Pathologists Shaped an Author's Journey
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32:37In 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 …
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217: The One About Pivoting from SLP to Copywriting
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27:51In 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 tur…
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AAC Connect Series: 3 Tips to Start Using AAC in Early Intervention
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33:47This solo is all about AAC in early intervention. We review 3 tips to start using AAC in EI when you don’t have buy-in or access to high-tech systems. This episode is also a sneak peek into the AAC Connect program. AAC Connect includes a variety of therapy materials, training, and personalized support. You can access ALL of these resources when you…
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216: The One About Using Nonviolent Communication to Handle Workplace Challenges
53:15
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53:15In 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 insigh…
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215: The One About Support Neurodiversity and Inclusion in Early Intervention
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17:24In 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 u…
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AAC Connect Series: 6 Things I Wish I Knew Starting Out with AAC
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31:27This solo episode is all about the mistakes I made with AAC in the past. We review 6 things I wish I knew starting out with AAC like determining grid size, programming, moving beyond requesting, teaching literacy, adding gestalts, and giving exploration time. This episode is also a sneak peak into the AAC Connect program. AAC Connect includes a var…
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214: The One About Creating a Niche Private Practice
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23:27In 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.…
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AAC Connect Series: 5 Tips for AAC Trials
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19:09In this episode I share five key strategies for conducting effective AAC device trials. This episode emphasizes on the importance of having light or no-tech backups, involving caregivers and school staff in data collection, acquiring AAC apps for iPads, borrowing devices from loan libraries, and initiating funded device trials. It also highlights t…
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213: The One About Navigating Cultural Differences in Private Practice
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32:52In 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 mate…
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AAC Connect Series: 3 Common Misconceptions about AAC Readiness
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17:29The episode is part of the AAC Connect series and was inspired by a frustrated teacher that reached out to me. She was told her student wasn’t ready for AAC because he did not point, discriminate or attend long enough. I share some ways to address each skill when a client is not exhibiting these skills "yet." This episode is also a sneak peak into …
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212: The One About Thinking Outside the Box in Private Practice
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44:29In 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 …
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211: The One About AAC with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals
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25:39In 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 importan…
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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 cur…
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209: The One About Promoting AAC and Neurodiversity Awareness
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19:59In 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,…
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[Podcourse] Part 2: How to Provide Neurodiversity-Informed Therapy for AAC & GLP Learners
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30:32In this episode, I am joined by Kaitlin Mulcahey, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Competent Communicators, LLC, as we discuss how to provide neurodiversity-informed therapy for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) learners. Caitlin shares her experiences and tips on incorporatin…
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[Podcourse] Part 1: How to Provide Neurodiversity-Informed Therapy for AAC & GLP Learners
32:14
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32:14In this episode, I am joined by Kaitlin Mulcahey, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Competent Communicators, LLC, as we discuss how to provide neurodiversity-informed therapy for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) learners. Caitlin shares her experiences and tips on incorporatin…
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207: How to Support Communication Skills for Neurodivergent Individuals with Racquet Sports
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25:45In this episode, I am joined by Lisa Pugliese-Lacroix, aUSPTA 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 Servi…
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From the Vault: The One About Articulation & Literacy With Kelly Farquharson
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52:18In 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.…
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