Aphasia Treatment: Speech Therapy

As a seasoned speech-language pathologist with a decade of experience, Lisa has had the privilege of working in diverse settings such as public schools, clinics, and skilled nursing facilities. Her work has allowed her to service a wide range of individuals, from school-aged children to adults and the geriatric population, each with their unique communication needs. Her journey in this field began in 2013 when she completed her B.A. in Speech Communication with a minor in Psychology at St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue, New York. This foundation led her to further her studies, and in 2016, she graduated with her M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from Touro College in Brooklyn, New York. She is licensed to practice speech and language therapy in Florida and California. Additionally, she holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), a testament to her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and clinical practice. When she is not working, you can find her trying out new restaurants with her husband, spending time with family and friends, reading her Bible, or relaxing at the beach. **My Approach To Speech Therapy** In my practice as a speech-language pathologist, I employ a holistic and evidence-based approach that prioritizes establishing a strong rapport with my clients. I believe that a good quality relationship is essential for effective therapy, creating a safe and supportive environment for open communication. Utilizing multimodal techniques, I adapt my strategies to accommodate various learning styles, incorporating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements tailored to each individual's unique needs. This dynamic methodology not only enhances engagement but also ensures that each session is productive and enjoyable, promoting meaningful progress in speech and language development. **What A Therapy Session Looks Like With Lisa** During our therapy sessions, I create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that encourages strong rapport building and a positive clinician-client relationship. We typically begin with a brief check-in to celebrate successes and discuss any challenges, reinforcing a supportive environment. Each session is filled with interactive activities designed to enhance communication skills. For example, role-playing, incorporating music or songs, using sensory materials, taking part in art tasks, playing interactive games, and utilizing technology. I like to focus on practicing important life skills, such as cooking, gardening, making doctor’s appointments, and managing medications. All activities are tailored to the client’s interests and aimed at fostering specific language skills. To ensure each client receives the best support, I incorporate modifications and prompts based on their unique needs. I use a variety of evidence-based techniques to target specific goals while keeping the experience enjoyable and engaging. As we progress, I provide real-time feedback and encouragement, helping clients explore their potential and build their confidence in communication. Together, we’ll explore your communication skills in a way that feels natural and enjoyable, working hand-in-hand to boost your language skills and let your true potential shine! **Fun Facts About Lisa** - My husband and I love exploring new restaurants and tasting a variety of cuisines. - Cooking and hosting family gatherings is one of my favorite hobbies. - I enjoy reading and journaling with scripture to deepen my faith. - I run a faith-based practice, aligning my work with my values. - Running is a passion of mine! I was involved in track during high school and have completed both a marathon, half marathon, and other 5K and 10K races. - I love hiking and being outdoors. - I’ve been to 30+ different Caribbean islands, soaking in the beauty and culture of each one! - I prioritize working out to keep myself active and healthy.

Christine Corl has over 19 years of experience working with a wide range of clients and their families in the areas of speech, language, and swallowing disorders. Christine is a certified neonatal therapist and specializes in the area of pediatric feeding and swallowing as well as early childhood development. Beyond pediatrics, Christine has worked with adult clients in both hospital and clinic settings. Christine’s practice has been shaped by her experience working at such facilities as the University of Chicago Medical Center and the University of Washington Medical Center. Christine is certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), holds a Bachelors of Science from James Madison University, and a Masters of Science from Gallaudet University. She is proficient in basic sign language. When Christine isn’t working she loves spending time with her daughter, traveling, and exploring the Pacific Northwest. **My Approach to Therapy** Speech Therapy focuses on creating a supportive and engaging environment tailored to each individual’s goals. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with creativity to make therapy effective, enjoyable, and client-centered. **What a Session Looks Like With Christine** I provide virtual speech therapy sessions where we address your personal goals by building skills through targeted activities. Sessions are structured yet flexible, progressing while adapting to the client’s unique goals and interests.

Kristin Dattoria is extremely passionate about speech-language pathology. She grew up in Valencia, CA, and attended Utah State University and University of California at Irvine for her Bachelor's degrees and Utah State University for her Master's degree in English. She received her Master's degree in Speech Pathology from California State University, Northridge. She moved to Maryland in 2020 with her husband, Kevin. Kristin loves seeing clients progress over the course of the year and connecting with their families. In speech therapy, she works hard to accomplish her clients' speech and language goals, but she also loves to keep things fun and personalized. She especially loves working on strengthening vocabulary, visual and working memory, executive functioning skills, stuttering, and symptoms of aphasia. In her free time, Kristin enjoys running after and playing with her son, playing board games, dancing hula, reading, and spending time with her family and friends. **My Approach to Speech Therapy** I am a big believer in motivating clients/students to meet goals and new challenges through evidence-based practice, relating to them through their interests and personal goals, providing opportunities for making autonomous choices, and supporting a feeling of accomplishment and competency in their skills. We can do this together! **What a Therapy Session Looks Like With Kristin** In my therapy sessions, I start with a check-in to see how you're doing and if you have any new information to share with me. Then, we jump into "the work." That can look like working on word and memory associations, visualization tasks, articulation practice...the goals and session are tailored to your unique needs and goals. I will help create those goals and make each session enjoyable, but I always see us as a team, working toward each goal together. **Fun Facts About Kristin** - I am a Hula and salsa dancer - I speak Spanish and English, but I'm half-Japanese, part-German, and part-English - I enjoy the outdoors, especially the ocean and mountains, so I love to hike and camp or glamp! - I played the piano and cello when I was younger