I have over 20 years of experience in working with a variety of speech and language disorders. I have special interests in working with children who have developmental and/or cognitive delays, autism, apraxia and social or pragmatic difficulties. I am fluent in sign language and have been successful with using sign language to facilitate speech in many children that I have treated. I strive to treat each child as an individual and develop treatment goals to support each child's individual needs as well as the needs of the parents. In my treatment of clients, I try to instill confidence and help individuals realize their potential in regards to successful communication. I encourage parents to participate in their child's sessions so that they can help their child carry over techniques and skills to their home environment. I have also met with educators of some of my clients to collaborate on how we can make communication more successful in the classroom. Sign language classes for Moms and their babies are available as well. Current research has shown that when babies are taught sign language at an early age and begin to use these signs to communicate their needs, they realize their ability to control things in their environment. These babies learn cause and effect earlier and are more quickly soothed as they can communicate pain, hunger, fear and things they desire. In addition, as the babies in the study grew and developed, it was discovered that they were out-scoring their peers on academic assessments, intelligence tests and even the SATs. As a child of deaf parents, I also have a special interest in working with children who are hearing impaired. I use ASL when communicating with my parents; however, am also trained in signed English. My speech therapy practice does focus on pediatrics; however, I have extensive experience working with adults as well. I have worked with adults who have suffered strokes and have experience working with individuals who have communication and cognitive difficulties as a result of Traumatic brain injuries. If you are looking for a speech therapist who cares about your child's overall success in communication, academics, and life, I am the right therapist for you. I want to help your child succeed and give you, as the parent, the tools to help your child at home.