Speechie Side Up

Latest Episodes:

214: The One About Creating a Niche Private Practice Aug 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I am joined by Megan Hayes, MS, CCC-SLP, as we explore how working in a private practice setting differs from other professional environments.

The discussion focuses on the unique aspects, benefits, and challenges of private practice in comparison to alternative settings. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

AAC Connect Series: 5 Tips for AAC Trials Aug 14, 2024

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In this episode I share five key strategies for conducting effective AAC device trials.

This episode emphasizes on the importance of having light or no-tech backups, involving caregivers and school staff in data collection, acquiring AAC apps for iPads, borrowing devices from loan libraries, and initiating funded device trials. It also highlights the importance of community and continuous learning among speech language pathologists.

213: The One About Navigating Cultural Differences in Private Practice Aug 12, 2024

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In this episode, we are joined by Martha Boiardt, an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist and founder of Miami Speech Therapy as she shares her expertise on bilingual speech therapy, discussing the importance of maintaining heritage languages while navigating language delays.

Martha addresses common challenges, including the lack of quality materials in Spanish and misconceptions about bilingualism. She also highlights her collaboration to create Spanish language therapy decks and offers practical tips for bilingual families. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

AAC Connect Series: 3 Common Misconceptions about AAC Readiness Aug 10, 2024

Show notes

The episode is part of the AAC Connect series and was inspired by a frustrated teacher that reached out to me. She was told her student wasn’t ready for AAC because he did not point, discriminate or attend long enough. I share some ways to address each skill when a client is not exhibiting these skills "yet."

This episode is also a sneak peak into the AAC Connect program. AAC Connect includes a variety of therapy materials, training, and personalized support.

You can access ALL of these resources when you register here for the AAC Connect!

212: The One About Thinking Outside the Box in Private Practice Aug 05, 2024

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In this episode, I am joined by Rachel May, a Speech Language Pathologist with over two decades of experience as we explore the challenges and benefits of pursuing entrepreneurship versus employment.

Rachel discusses her journey and the motivation behind starting her own private practice. She is also joined by her colleagues, Sheila and Amber, who bring extensive expertise in Occupational and Physical Therapy respectively. Their collaborative efforts demonstrate the holistic approach needed for comprehensive child development.

The conversation delves into the importance of interdisciplinary work, the evolving landscape of parenting influenced by societal and environmental factors, and the developmental significance of crawling. They also touch on topics like the impact of dietary and environmental toxins on child development and the benefits of telehealth in providing real-time, practical support to families.

Rachel and her team emphasize the importance of informed decisions and passionate commitment in entrepreneurship, while also acknowledging the security and benefits of a steady job. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

211: The One About AAC with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals Jul 31, 2024

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In this episode, I am joined by Quinn Kelly as we delve into the intricacies of integrating AAC devices with ASL for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Quinn is a bilingual ASL-Fluent Certified Speech Language Pathologist in New York and New Jersey. Quinn shares insights on the historical use of AAC, its overprescription, and the importance of combining ASL with AAC.

She also discusses the cultural sensitivities in recommending AAC and offers practical strategies for SLPs working with this unique client population.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

210: The One About Virtual Coaching & EI Jul 29, 2024

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In this episode, I am joined by Gina Russell, the owner of Tiny Sparks, LLC, as we discuss her private coaching and consulting services designed to support parents and professionals in helping young children reach their full potential.

Gina explains the philosophy behind her diagnosis-free approach, aiming to assist families regardless of their current situation or readiness for formal diagnoses.

She highlights the key aspects of her services, including virtual coaching, personalized communication materials, and the importance of early childhood development.

Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

209: The One About Promoting AAC and Neurodiversity Awareness Jul 24, 2024

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In this episode, I am joined by Kellie Willis, a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in Early Intervention as we discuss the importance of education, relationships, and the use of AAC in empowering families and caregivers.

Kellie emphasizes the delicate and intimate nature of early intervention, the necessity of building trust with the family, and the significant role of parent coaching. She also shares her approach to integrating various tools, resources, and collaboration with other professionals to ensure holistic support for children's development. Kellie's practical tips and real-life examples provide valuable insights into promoting AAC awareness and effective early intervention strategies. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

[Podcourse] Part 2: How to Provide Neurodiversity-Informed Therapy for AAC & GLP Learners Jul 24, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I am joined by Kaitlin Mulcahey, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Competent Communicators, LLC, as we discuss how to provide neurodiversity-informed therapy for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) learners. Caitlin shares her experiences and tips on incorporating neurodiversity-informed approaches into therapeutic practices, using AAC with GLPs, and recommendations for new AAC therapists and parents of AAC users. She also touches on the importance of family goals, practical resources, and the process of AAC evaluation.