As a speech-language pathologist, I'm passionate about helping families connect with their children, especially minimally verbal young children and children with autism. I also enjoy helping children develop speech sounds and social skills to help them better engage with the people in their communities.

I was first drawn to the field of speech-language pathology after my father was in a serious motor vehicle accident. I vowed to help other patients recover speech after brain injury. Then, in graduate school, I discovered my true calling was working with children who were developing language for the first time. I'm honored to accompany families on the roller coaster journey through early childhood, including all the fears, frustrations and joys, which can feel so much bigger when your child cannot explicitly express their needs, desires and affection. Often, children with the most difficulty engaging in communication end up forming the most rewarding connections and bonds through speech therapy.

I believe in helping families find and follow their child's joy by encouraging connection over compliance. Forming a trusting relationship opens the door to authentic communication, and for children, this is best accomplished through play and responsive interactions—two of my specialties! Therapy works best when it's family-centered. In my sessions, caregivers are encouraged to implement evidence-based strategies with my support. Once parents become comfortable adapting therapy approaches to their child in the treatment room, they can confidently integrate the same strategies into everyday interactions at home.

In my free time, I enjoy listening to audiobooks, hiking with my family and exploring the Cincinnati restaurant scene. I also enjoy learning about different cultures and cuisines. I lived in Italy for five years and am planning a family trip to introduce my children to my second home.