Why did you want to become a Speech and Language Therapist?​

When I was choosing a career, I knew I wanted to do something where, in partnership with others, I could help to make difference to people’s lives. Speech and Language Therapy has enabled me to do that and provides me with opportunities to learn from the people I work with every day. Communication is vital to everything we do, and there is nothing more rewarding than unlocking a child’s individual potential and allowing them to achieve. Joining families in celebrating their child’s successes along the way makes my day!

What kind of experience do you have?

Since qualifying as a Speech and Language Therapist in July 2008, I have been lucky to have supported lots of children in developing their communication skills. After working for the NHS for almost 7 years, I joined The Talking House in September 2015 and have been part of the fantastic team ever since.

Currently, I work in both mainstream schools, nurseries and specialist provisions, as well as seeing individual clients in clinic for therapy and assessments. I have a wealth of experience of working in a range of settings supporting children with a broad range of complex speech, language and communication difficulties associated with Autism, DLD (developmental language disorder), learning disabilities and hearing impairment. I also have several years of experience of working with children with eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties. As part of my current role, I work as part of the autism assessment team here at The Talking House.

I am also The Talking House’s Clinical Lead for schools and work closely with the team to continuously develop our service delivery.

What are you particularly passionate about?​

My particular areas of interest are Autism and the approaches, strategies and techniques associated with supporting children with complex communication difficulties. I am very passionate about early intervention and its critical role in enabling each child to communicate to the best of their ability.

What are your hobbies and interesting facts about you?​

I spend most of my spare time running after an energetic toddler! I love anything outdoors, music festivals and gigs as well as lifting weights at the gym. I also love to travel and have been lucky enough to visit some amazing places. My favourite biscuit is most definitely shortbread…with a cup of tea!