Susan Barry

With over 20 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist, Susan has developed a deep passion for helping individuals of all ages and abilities unlock their fullest communication potential. Her clinical journey has led her to specialize in AAC (augmentative and alternative communication), gestalt language processing (GLP), social pragmatic language, early literacy, processing challenges, dyslexia, and work with adult populations including those with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and aphasia. Susan prides herself on being a lifelong learner-continuously seeking new strategies, tools, and research to ensure she provides the very best care to every client and family she serves. Her approach is always holistic and multidisciplinary, recognizing that communication does not exist in isolation but within the rich contexts of family, community, and everyday life. I pride myself on being a lifelong learner—continuously seeking new strategies, tools, and research to ensure I provide the very best care to every client and family I serve. My approach is always holistic and multidisciplinary, recognizing that communication does not exist in isolation but within the rich contexts of family, community, and everyday life.

My Approach To Speech Therapy

What matters most to me is building strong, collaborative relationships with clients and families. I believe that therapy should be personalized, functional, and family-centered, empowering each person not only to build skills but also to feel confident, connected, and supported on their journey. My approach to speech therapy is rooted in a holistic, client- and family-centered philosophy. I believe communication is not just about words, but about connection, confidence, and participation in daily life. Every client brings unique strengths, experiences, and goals, and I strive to honor those by creating personalized therapy plans that are functional, meaningful, and engaging. I integrate evidence-based practices with creativity, play, and collaboration—working closely with families, educators, and other professionals to ensure consistency and carryover across environments.

'Where Ability is Recognized, Potential is Endless.' This guiding principle shapes my work: by recognizing each client’s abilities—no matter how small—they are empowered to grow, learn, and communicate in ways that honor their individuality. I pair evidence-based strategies with creativity, compassion, and collaboration, ensuring that therapy is not just about overcoming challenges, but about unlocking possibilities.

What A Session Looks Like With Susan

Every speech therapy session is built around your or your child’s interests and motivations. Sessions often include a mix of play-based activities, structured tasks, and real-life practice, depending on age and goals. We begin by engaging with something motivating—like a game, craft, or meaningful daily task—to build comfort and attention. From there, we embed strategies that focus on communication goals, celebrating what the client can already do while introducing new challenges step by step. Caregivers may be included through modeling or coaching, so strategies can carry over at home, school, or in the community. Sessions close by reflecting on successes and setting up for continued growth. At every step, therapy is guided by the belief: 'Where Ability is Recognized, Potential is Endless.'

Fun Facts About Susan

I'm a proud mom of five daughters, which gives me daily, real-life insight into how children learn and communicate in unique ways. As a speech-language pathologist, I’ve had the privilege of treating clients across the entire lifespan—from babies just 2 days old to adults in their 90s—an experience that has taught me to see communication opportunities everywhere. Whether through play, crafts, daily routines, or meaningful life activities, I love turning motivation into moments that unlock speech and language growth.