Speech-language Connections is a group of SLPs and SLP assistants who, quite simply, care. Nearly 100 years of combined experience working with children, and we love what we do.
Our Team Shares Positive Reflections from the COVID Experience…
Lisa Durstin, Founder and Director
I chose speech-language pathology as a second career because I believe that being able to communicate, in whatever form, is one of the things that connects us to each other.
I’ve worked with kids and adults in speech-language pathology since 2003. The COVID experience has made me think more deeply about what kids are going to need and how we’re going to have to stretch the boundaries of what we’ve been accustomed to doing to get it to them.
Katie Willard, SLP
Katie’s been working with kids for 21 years and sees students in person. She is also an instructor for the SLPA training program.
Her positive COVID experience: “connecting with kids about their pets during remote learning periods. For example, during a Zoom session with a student at home, we connected over his dog who sat next to him; this student really doesn’t like speech, but after that session he opened up to me more.”
Stephanie Westendorf, SLP
Stephanie’s worked with kids for 8 years and sees students in telepractice.
“During school closures, I enjoyed connecting directly to families/caretakers of students on a regular basis to see how their communication progress carried over at home. Speech therapy in the home environment allowed for some different communication opportunities, too (for example, students introducing me to their pets :). It was also incredible to see how quickly the students adapted to multiple changes when they returned to school.”
Her positive COVID experience: “connecting with kids about their pets during remote learning periods. For example, during a Zoom session with a student at home, we connected over his dog who sat next to him; this student really doesn’t like speech, but after that session he opened up to me more.”
Ashley Brummer, SLP
Ashley’s worked with kids for 14 years and sees kids in telepractice.
“I think the hidden gem of COVID and having to move to distance learning was the relationships I formed with the parents at home - I already had contact with most, but I think them being able to see their child working in speech led to more of a team approach with the parents!”
Nichole Ruggles, SLP Assistant
Nichole has worked with kids for over 30 years and sees kids in person. Nichole is currently pursuing ASHA’s SLPA certification designation.
“I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to connect with parents, students and families during remote learning - meeting all the family pets over Zoom, providing Mom & Dad with some tips about articulation therapy when requested, helping the children understand the connection between home and school - these things have been unexpected benefits during this difficult time.”
Lisa Ball, SLP Assistant
Lisa has worked with kids for over 19 years and sees kids in person. Lisa is taking courses towards her ASHA SLPA certification.
“During Covid my technology skills and treatment resources have expanded and as a result my remote sessions are more successful and students were able to make great progress!”