Getting Started

Sometimes, a pediatrician, teacher or family member is the first to mention a potential concern in a child’s development. 

What is a speech-language pathologist?

A speech-language pathologist (SLP), has a minimum of a Masters’ degree and specializes in the evaluation and treatment of a variety of communication disorders, cognition, voice disorders, feeding and swallowing disorders. Speech-language pathology is a “womb to tomb” profession in that the scope of practice can range from the neo-natal unit to a nursing home. iCan serves pediatrics from one year to 21 years old.

It is a common misconception that speech-language pathology is restricted to correcting pronunciation difficulties, such as helping children correctly produce their "s" and "r" sounds, or helping people who stutter to speak more fluently. While an SLP can help in these areas, speech-language pathology also covers language, swallowing, feeding, cognition, social skills and voice issues involving communication. Speech therapy can address a broad scope of concerns, from basic communication and feeding to executive functioning skills that help within a classroom.

Therapy looks different depending on the disorder, severity, age, personality and needs of each child. The number of sessions recommended per week and time they will require intervention is also child specific. In most cases, unless an evaluation reveals your concerns are developmental in nature, the earlier the intervention the better the prognosis. The common thread in all my sessions is my desire to find ways to incorporate fun into therapy. Regardless of age or disorder a strong bond between clinician and child produces better results. Nurturing a child’s heart while utilizing skilled intervention will allow them to reach their highest potential.