Special Interest in Supporting Authentic Communication for Autistic Individuals and AAC Users
Providing In-home services to clients in Snohomish and King Counties
Autism
At Lake Stevens Speech Language and AAC, we look at each child through a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming lens and work with families to support the development of authentic communication that fits your family values and lifestyle. Click here to learn more about a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
Gestalt Language Processing
Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs) process language in "chunks" or scripts. These children's language development begins with echolalia (repeating phrases, lines from movies, songs, etc). We are trained in using the Natural Language Acquisition Framework to support your child's natural language development style through child-led play. Learn more about GLPs here.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
We partner with families to support children with complex communication needs and to help support the development of autonomous and authentic communication through the use of multi-modal means, including AAC systems.
Early Intervention
We use child-led play therapy and parent coaching to help children develop an intrinsic motivation to communicate.
Speech Disorders
We provide Speech therapy services for children whose speech is difficult to understand.
Parent Coaching
Family education and parental involvement is an important part of supporting our children's communication development. We are passionate about supporting families on this journey through education, resources, and coaching.
About Me
I have been a Speech Pathologist for 14 years and have worked in a variety of settings: adult acute care, inpatient and outpatient, home health, pediatric outpatient therapy, and in the schools. My experience is predominately with children ages 2 to 18, the majority of whom are autistic and/or have complex communication needs and use AAC systems.
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I graduated with a Master of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the University of Portland in 2009. My passion is in working with autistic kids and their families, as well as with AAC users and their families. My primary goal is to support families and provide them with the resources and connections that they need to feel empowered and supported in their journey.
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I live in Lake Stevens with my husband, two children, and Collie mix. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, walking, reading, and spending time with my family.
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Certifications/Licenses:
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American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Certification
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Washington Department of Health Speech Pathology license
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Natural Language Acquistion (NLA) Trained​
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Inside Out Sensory for SLPs Certificate
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Services
We provide in-home services within Snohomish and King Counties and can travel to your home, to daycares, or to private school locations. We provide speech therapy evaluations and services for pediatrics (ages 2-18) for speech, language, and AAC. We are currently in-network with Premera and Regence and plan to slowly add more insurances over time. Currently, for all other insurances aside from Premera or Regence, we accept private pay and provide a superbill that families can submit to insurance for reimbursement.
Resources
Gestalt Language Development
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Marge Blanc Finding the Words
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Marge Blanc's Website: Communication Development Center
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The Two Sides of the Spectrum Podcast ("Delayed Echolalia and Gestalt Language Processors")
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Article in Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine by Alexandria Zachos ("Gestalt Language Development")
AAC​
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Northwest Augmentative Communication Society (NWACS): Great resources for AAC users and families
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Great Podcasts: Uniquely Human and Two Sides of the Spectrum
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Neurodiversity-affirming handout by Play-Spark
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How to Use a Strengths-Based Approach to Talk About Autism by Jessie Ginsburg
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