What is a speech language pathologist?

When I first introduce myself as a speech language pathologist (aka, speech therapist), people often tell me “there’s nothing wrong with my speech” and most of the time, they’re correct!

I work with people in a variety of different ways to support all areas of communication and cognition. This will look different for everyone. I work with individuals who’ve suffered a brain injury to develop very specific strategies to support memory, attention and increase self-awareness. In relation to this, I work with individuals struggling with executive functioning to create a program that supports them get their work done in school and learn more about how they learn in order to be successful at home and school. I work with young children challenged by communication and have difficulty interacting with their community. I work with adults who have had a stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia or other neurological condition who may be struggling with their voice, memory and cognition and may possibly be having difficulties with eating and drinking.

How exactly can you help me?

I will first administer a comprehensive evaluation if one has not been done recently. After this evaluation, we will develop a comprehensive program tailored specifically for you as everyone is different and has different needs. I work holistically with you and your family to integrate all areas of your life. Your individualized program will be specially designed to meet your functional needs and we will develop useful strategies that will be implemented throughout your daily activities.

What makes you different?

I take the time to work with you as a whole person and feel its important to look at what you do in every other part of your day, week and month instead of being focused only on our time together in my clinic (…or on your computer!). I believe that your therapy should fit into your life and this may mean seeing each other once (or twice or three times a week!) or checking in every other week, talking to your teacher, coach or employer to discuss what works best for you and your needs to be successful. We may decide that talking on the phone or tele health 3 times a week for 20 minutes may be more beneficial than a once a week clinic session. Everyone is different and everyone will have different needs.

How long does therapy take?

Out time together is 100% dependent on your specific needs; however, because of the nature of the services that I provide, I will typically recommend no less than 3 months as this allows time for a full evaluation and ability to develop a comprehensive plan for you to incorporate at home, school and work. You may have needs that require much longer than 3 months as the primary purpose of therapy and coaching is to establish long term habits and routines that will be implemented into your daily activities to insure long term success. There are occasions where a limited number of sessions (3-4) are recommended depending on level of understanding that you and your family have regarding your immediate needs. This will be assessed during the first appointment and evaluation.

Do you offer tele therapy?

YES! I am currently licensed in Idaho and California. I have clients who move back and forth between the Wood River Valley and other locations. By utilizing tele therapy, our work together can go uninterrupted and we don’t lose momentum for progress. Therapy is most effective when done continuously in order to make what we do together part of your daily routine and the strategies we create together become a habit for you. I also understand that life can get in the way, particularly now, and that you may not always be able to come to me personally in my office or other location; therefore, I’m able to support you at home even if you can’t make it to the clinic.

What ages do you see?

I have experience working with individuals age 1-101! I have been able to work with all ages. I have been very fortunate in my 20 year career to have been able to work with multiple conditions and a wide range of ages with varying different needs.