My Philosophy
At Speak & Spell Therapy, I believe that strong communication skills build confidence, connection, and lifelong learning. This belief shapes every aspect of my work and guides the way I support each client and family.
At Speak & Spell Therapy, I believe that strong communication skills build confidence, connection, and lifelong learning. This belief shapes every aspect of my work and guides the way I support each client and family.
Communication Is the Foundation for Connection
Communication is far more than producing sounds or forming sentences. It is how we share ideas, build relationships, solve problems, and express who we are. I approach therapy with the understanding that every individual communicates in their own way, and all forms of communication are valid. Whether spoken language, AAC, gestures, or early literacy skills, each pathway deserves support, respect, and encouragement.
A Whole Person, Strength Based Approach
No two communicators are alike, and no single approach works for everyone. My philosophy is grounded in evidence based practice and a whole person perspective that considers each client's strengths, needs, interests, and unique communication style. I focus on developing functional, meaningful skills that support communication in everyday environments at home, at school, and within the community.
Progress Begins with Trust
Meaningful progress happens when a strong, supportive relationship is built. I believe therapy is most effective when clients feel safe, respected, and genuinely connected to their therapist. Taking time to build rapport, learn each client's personality, understand their motivators, and recognize their challenges creates the foundation for true growth. When trust is established, communication becomes more natural, risks feel safer to take, and learning unfolds more authentically.
Total Communication Is Empowering
I embrace a total communication philosophy that supports speech, language, AAC, gestures, signs, visual supports, and emerging literacy. By honoring all communication modalities, I help individuals express themselves authentically and confidently while reducing frustration and increasing participation.
Growth Happens Through Relationships
Progress does not happen in isolation. Therapy is most powerful when it is collaborative, supportive, and compassionate. I partner closely with families, caregivers, and other professionals to ensure communication skills are reinforced beyond each session and applied naturally within daily routines. When the relationships around a client support communication, progress becomes stronger, more joyful, and more sustainable.
Purposeful, Evidence Based Therapy
Every session is designed to be engaging, functional, and aligned with current research. My goal is not only to build skills, but to help clients feel successful while doing so. Growth is celebrated, challenges are addressed with care, and therapy is always tailored to the whole person, not just the skill being targeted.
Helping Every Communicator Thrive
Ultimately, my philosophy centers on empowering individuals to communicate with clarity, confidence, and independence. I believe every communicator deserves to feel heard, understood, and successful. When supported in the right ways and in the right environment, meaningful progress is always possible.
Connection
Meaningful progress begins with trust. I build strong, supportive relationships with clients and families to create a safe, encouraging space for communication to grow.
Individualization
Every communicator is unique. Therapy is tailored to each person's strengths, needs, and communication style, ensuring learning feels relevant, motivating, and attainable.
Evidence Based Care
Therapy is guided by current research and best practices. Each session is designed with purpose, supporting clear, confident, and functional communication in everyday life.