Speech Therapy in Johns Creek, GA

Heather is a self-described Language Nerd. As an undergraduate, she majored in linguistics and electrical engineering. People always told her that combination was unique, and she struggled to find a way to marry the two fields. But now, after 15+ years as a speech-language pathologist, Heather has found a way to use her unique strengths to serve her clients. Her linguistic brain quickly hears the speech sounds and identifies the exact sound errors. Her engineering brain creates a systematic approach to address these challenges. Heather also really enjoys talking with people. You will do so much talking in your sessions! You will laugh and have a good time together, while also working hard. Heather respects your time and wants you to make quick progress. Here is the important but potentially less interesting stuff. Heather is a speech-language pathologist certified through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, and Utah. She's been at this for more than 15 years and still loves it! **My Approach To Speech Therapy** My therapeutic approach is based on analysis and research. I find where my clients' skills are, and start there.Then we work together to move their skills toward their goals. After every therapy session, clients will have homework that is brief activities to work on or practice several times a day. Short bursts of practicing the skill helps the brain understand we need it to use that new skill all of the time. During our sessions we will work hard, and we will also laugh and sometimes cry, (usually happy tears!). I can't wait to meet you and get started. **What A Session Looks Like With Heather** Each session begins with a quick check-in and review of how the homework went. For every client, I visualize a staircase where they are constantly aiming to get on the next step of the stairs toward their communication goals. So after homework review, we start working on one of the skills at the current stair, and work to push it up to the next stair. Then once we have practiced the skill, I assign homework for them to practice until the next session. **Fun Facts About Heather** I like long walks on the beach. I learned to count in binary when I was 5 years old. When I’m not working, you can find me hiking with my dogs or baking something deliciously unhealthy.

Alexa is a AuDHD speech-language pathologist based in the Atlanta area. She has expertise in trauma-informed care, person-centered care, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. She is a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS) and is trained in Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) theory. Her passion is teaching her clients the skills necessary to be the best self-advocates they can be. **My Approach To Therapy** My approach to speech therapy incorporates a holistic, trauma-informed perspective. I recognize that neurodiverse individuals have a history of trauma to some extent, which can have a negative impact on communication skills and overall quality of life. I address the trauma response and how this integrates into communicative functions. **What a Therapy Session Looks Like With Me** A therapy session with me is a very relaxed and low-pressure environment. Consent is key, so rather than me telling you what needs to be done, we collaborate on what we think is best for your given situation. I also advocate for what makes you feel the most comfortable in our sessions, so that can be wearing your PJs, having your camera turned off for virtual appointments, whatever helps you function at your best! My structure for sessions typically involves self-reflection while we practice functional communication goals. Sessions always end on a discussion regarding a home exercise program (HEP) that will help you generalize what you've learned into your everyday routine. **Fun Facts About Alexa** I spend my spare time doing various things in my free time that keep my body and brain regulated. This often entails reading, knitting/crocheting, watching my favorite TV shows, and playing video games. Don't be afraid to bring these activities up in our sessions, I love talking about my special interests!**

April Jackson is a neuroaffirming Speech-Language Pathologist with licensed expertise in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating speech, language, and communication disorders as well as feeding difficulties while utilizing culturally aware, evidenced-based practices. April has extensive experience working with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and encourages generalization of multi-modal communication skills in an intentional effort to improve the quality of life experienced by the clients she has been called to serve. April believes in tailoring individualized speech therapy treatment plans specific to each client’s unique needs. She is an advocate for nurturing neurodiversity affirming communication skills through training and education to families and caregivers in order to promote functional communication skills. April earned a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2016 and has experience in various settings including adult rehabilitation, public schools, pediatric private clinics, ABA centers, as well as home health. **My Approach to Therapy** My inclusive, affirming, evidence aware, client led approach to therapy prioritizes connection and support intrinsic motivation **What a Session Looks Like With April** Emotionally supportive to both clients and families, interactive to peak the interests of client, taking intentional time to understand client’s unique strengths/interests, while guiding clients toward their goals **Fun Facts About April** I love cuddling up with my husband and watching a great film, going on walks with friends, and spending quality time with family. In my spare time I enjoy karaoke, making vision boards, and reading a good book.