201-525-8926
Meet Our
Speech-Language Pathologists
Founder/Clinical Director:
Lauren Hoey,
M.S. CCC-SLP
Speech Therapist:
Courtney Vignola,
M.A. CCC-SLP
Courtney is a Certified Speech-Language Pathologist with a Master of Arts degree in Communication Science and Disorders from Iona University. Courtney has extensive experience working with special needs, inside and outside the clinical setting.
She has treated clients ages 2-22 within the scopes of articulation, cognition, receptive/expressive language, fluency, AAC, and pragmatics. Courtney has worked with both neurotypical and complex communicators through utilization of the Total Communication approach, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Discrete Trials, and basic signs from American Sign Language. Currently, Courtney works for Cliffside Park Public Schools and holds a Speech Language Specialist certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education. In March 2023, Courtney became trained in PROMPT (level 1).
Treating via Teletherapy throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has shown Courtney the importance of empathetic and compassionate care, especially for her medically fragile clients. She is passionate about the field of speech-language pathology and is determined to give the world the voice it deserves! Courtney herself is a product of speech intervention due to dentition malformations as a young child. She is thankful to give back to other individuals who suffer from similar articulation deficits and has found joy in treating areas such as motor speech disorder and augmentative and alternative communication.
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When Courtney is not working, she spends her time with her family and husband, and loves watching Disney movies! ​
Speech Therapist:
Annalisa Carreras,
M.S. CCC-SLP
Annalisa graduated with a Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences from William Paterson University. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) and is licensed to practice speech language pathology in both New Jersey and New York.
She has had the pleasure of working with individuals of all ages in a variety of communication areas, including expressive and receptive language, articulation, speech sound disorders, feeding/swallowing, fluency, voice, cognition, and social communication. Annalisa’s professional experience includes working at a private practice seeing clients in the office, preschool, in the home, and most recently via Teletherapy. During her graduate studies, she also gained clinical experience working in a school setting and a hospital outpatient facility. Through the field of speech-language pathology, Annalisa is dedicated to serving her clients and their families and is passionate about helping them make progress towards their individual goals.
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Annalisa resides in Passaic County and recently purchased her first home. In her spare time, you can find her honing her baking skills, scouring the internet for home decor inspiration, and spending time with her boyfriend and family.
Speech Therapist:
Jenniffer Wahler,
M.A. CCC-SLP
Jenniffer received her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Seton Hall University. She is a passionate and dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist with experience diagnosing and treating a variety of disorders in clients from ages 16 months to 85+.
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Jenniffer has been providing evidence-based speech therapy in homes and classrooms, as well as virtually for over 8 years. She has extensive experience working with late talkers, children with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, phonological patterns and sound disorders, as well as children who stutter and have apraxia of speech.
Speech Therapist:
Kristen Guinane,
M.A. CCC-SLP
Kristen is a nationally and state licensed speech-language pathologist in the State of New Jersey. She has been practicing for over 15 years with various populations, including birth -3 y/o; preK; elementary and high school-aged children. Kristen completed her clinical externship in the hospital setting both working with children and adults.
Kristen has experience diagnosing and treating a plethora of communication disorders. She has advanced training in PROMPT therapy and oral placement therapy (OPT), which she is very passionate about. She is diligent, flexible, and empathetic and looks forward to working with the team of The Way You Say LLC as well as her clients and their families.
Speech Therapist:
Tara Merla,
M.S. CCC-SLP
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Tara is a NJ and NY state licensed speech-language pathologist who received her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY and is nationally certified by the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA). She is passionate about treating each child as a whole, taking into consideration major developmental areas including cognition, sensory motor, linguistic and psychosocial factors. During graduate school, Tara completed an independent study on the effect of supporting sensory needs on social communicative development in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. She has worked closely with many skilled occupational therapists in a private practice setting, and understands the importance of recognizing her client’s sensory needs and how this affects their ability to learn. Tara emphasizes the importance of establishing a positive rapport with each one of her clients in order to maximize their ability to engage and learn new skills.
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Her experience includes working with children with Autism, children with articulation/phonology disorders, executive functioning difficulties, auditory processing disorder, stuttering, oral motor weakness, language disorders and apraxia of speech. She has additional training in the PROMPT method, the DIR Floortime approach, TalkTools, the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), and counseling in stuttering treatment. In addition, Tara has taken an interest in researching the importance of play and literacy in child's language development. She is passionate about educating caregivers on how to facilitate early language skills in a child’s natural environment. She is skilled in facilitating speech, language, and social communication through play interactions, making her sessions meaningful and fun!
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When Tara is not treating her clients, she’s home taking care of her two sons who keep her very busy! She loves being a mom, spending time with her family, movies and relaxing with a Dunkin iced coffee!
Speech Therapist:
Vivianna Salce
M.S. ED., CCC-SLP
Vivianna is certified as a Speech-Language Pathologist by the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) and is licensed in New Jersey and New York. Additionally, she holds a Speech and Language Specialist (SLS) certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education and a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) certificate in the state of New York. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Syracuse University and a Master of Science in Education degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from The College of Saint Rose. Vivianna has experience treating individuals (ages 1-86 yrs) with social communication disorders, fluency disorders, receptive-expressive language disorders, cognitive-communication disorders, swallowing disorders, sensory feeding selectivity, voice disorders, speech sound disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and aphasia.
Additionally, she provides treatment utilizing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and oral placement techniques. Vivianna is Level One certified in Oral Placement Therapy and is receiving education to become a trained clinician in Natural Language Acquisition (Gestalt Language Processing). She completed her Clinical Fellowship (CF) at an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Early Intervention Center with a social group component in the Bronx, NY. Vivianna holds a passion for working with young children diagnosed with ASD and/or developmental delays. She believes in creating a functional and individualized treatment environment that is holistic with the inclusion of evidence-based practice. Vivianna enjoys doing yoga with her bunny, hiking, trying novel foods, and spending time with her cat.
Speech Therapist:
Jennifer White
M.S. CCC-SLP
Jennifer a licensed speech-language pathologist who received her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Boston University. Jennifer also holds her American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), as well as her NJ Department of Education Speech Language Specialist certification.
Jennifer has experience working with individuals with a variety of speech and communication needs including receptive/expressive language, articulation, phonological disorders, fluency, pragmatic language, and AAC needs. Throughout her career, Jennifer has collaborated with teams of professionals across multiple settings and has educated and supported families and caregivers. Jennifer is passionate about working with the pediatric population and their families, and loves to make speech therapy fun. Building strong relationships with her clients is of utmost importance to Jennifer. Currently, Jennifer works in a K-8 public school in NJ.
When Jennifer is not working, she loves spending time with her friends and family, playing with her dog, and adventuring in the outdoors.
Speech Therapist:
Abigial Grimm
M.S. CCC-SLP
Abigail is a licensed Speech and Language Pathologist with a Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders. Abigail attended William Paterson University where she completed both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. Abigail has gained clinical and professional experience in outpatient facilities, hospital stroke unit, and the school setting. In her role as a Speech Language Pathologist, Abigail strives to empower each of her students to be effective communicators. Through effective communication, students will enjoy and participate more fully in social interactions as well as succeed academically. It is Abigail's passion to support her students’ development of functional language skills in both the receptive and expressive domain for their social and academic success.
Abigail currently works in school districts across Essex County providing speech and language services to children with articulation, language, fluency, and cognitive disorders, and also conducts social language groups. Abigail works with children between K-12th grade, as well as young adults 18-21 years of age to establish functional activities of daily living skills. She really loves to utilize play-based activities like games and scavenger hunts in speech therapy.
Outside of work, Abigail enjoys being outdoors with her husband and children. Abigail enjoys cooking, baking, and doing crafts.
Speech Therapist:
Marlee Kaplan,
M.A. CCC-SLP
Marlee is a licensed speech-language pathologist in the state of New Jersey and holds a
Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA). She earned a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Montclair State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The College of New Jersey.
She has experience working with individuals across the lifespan in multiple settings including school, private practice, outpatient rehabilitation, and acute care inpatient rehabilitation. She is experienced in working with children who have speech sound disorders, receptive/expressive language deficits, language delays, and fluency/stuttering disorders. Marlee has also had extensive experience working with adults with various neurological disorders including those who have resulting aphasia, dysarthria, apraxia, dysphagia, cognitive-communication disorders, voice disorders, and acquired fluency disorders. She is truly passionate about the field of speech pathology as it meets her lifelong goals of making a positive impact on other people’s lives. Marlee believes that every individual deserves specialized care that supports each of their unique needs.
Marlee holds training certifications in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT), SpeakOut, McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program (MDTP), and is competent in conducting and analyzing Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS).
Outside of speech pathology, Marlee enjoys traveling, watching the Mets, going to the gym,
and spending time with her 18-year-old cat, Kiwi.
Speech Therapist:
Gabriela Bonghanoy,
M.S. CCC-SLP
Gabriela is a licensed speech-language pathologist in the state of New Jersey and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). She also holds the Speech Language Specialist (SLS) certification through the NJ Department of Education. Gabriela received her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Seton Hall University.
She has worked with patients of all ages ranging from 13 months old to 90+ years old. Gabriela treats a variety of disorders including: Autism, receptive and expressive language disorders, articulation/phonological disorders, auditory processing disorder, fluency, and acquired cognitive disorders. She has professional experience working in a skilled nursing facility, private practice, and as a travel therapist for school districts. Gabriela has a great interest in Gestalt Language Processing and is working towards her NLA Certification through Meaningful Speech. Currently, she provides 1:1 in person services in the home setting and daycare setting in addition to 1:1 services via teletherapy.
Outside of work, Gabriela loves spending time with her friends and family by going out to eat and singing karaoke.
Speech Therapist:
Shayna Lesier
M.A. CCC-SLP, TSSLD
Shayna Is a licensed speech-language pathologist who received her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Lehman College. Shayna also holds her American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), as well as her NJ Department of Education Speech Language Specialist certification and Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities certification (TSSLD).
Shayna has experience working with individuals with a variety of speech and communication needs including receptive/expressive language, articulation, phonological disorders, fluency, apraxia, pragmatic language, and AAC needs. She has gained clinical experience working with both pediatric and adult populations across various settings including university clinics, public schools, early intervention centers, after-school social pragmatic groups and an outpatient hospital.
Shayna is passionate about working with the pediatric population and their families to provide speech services that are impactful, engaging, fun and relevant to achieving their goals. Currently, Shayna works in a public school in New Jersey with students K-9. When Shayna is not working, she loves spending time with her friends and family, reading and hiking!
Speech Therapist:
Kristen Boddie
M.S. CCC-SLP
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Kristen received her Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences from William Paterson University and her Bachelors of Arts degree in Communication Disorders at the University of Connecticut. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) and is licensed to practice speech language pathology in New Jersey.
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Her professional experience includes working with children ages one- adulthood within the scopes of articulation, cognition, receptive/expressive language, fluency, AAC, and pragmatics. Kristen is currently employed at the Wanaque School District where she has worked with children from PreK – 8th grade for the past 11 years. She also has experience in the private practice as well as home-based setting. Kristen prides herself in the rapport she builds with her students/clients and enjoys making her speech therapy sessions a fun and productive experience for all.
Speech Therapist:
Pavandeep Toor
M.A. CCC-SLP
Pavandeep is a licensed speech-language pathologist in the state of New Jersey. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences and her Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, both from Cleveland State University. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).
Pavandeep has experience working with adults and pediatrics (ages: 16 months-80+) with a variety of speech, language and communication disorders/delays including a few of the following: expressive/receptive language disorders/delays, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), auditory processing disorder, articulation and phonological disorders, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), aphasia and cognitive communication disorders.
Pavandeep is a passionate believer of child-led therapy. Therapy sessions conducted with empathy, laughter and patience are what lead to the best possible prognosis along with collaborating with other professionals.
When she’s not working, Pavandeep enjoys spending her time traveling home to Ohio to visit her loved ones, painting, walking, journaling and trying new activities that allow her to step out of her comfort zone.
Speech Therapist:
Danielle Berman
M.S. CCC-SLP
Danielle is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with a Master of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from The College of Saint Rose. Danielle is licensed in the state of New Jersey and New York, and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), and Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities certification (TSSLD).
Danielle is dedicated to helping children with varying diagnosis and severities to effectively address their individual needs. Her clinical experience includes, but are not limited to: developmental language delays, social/pragmatic language disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders, auditory processing disorder, articulation and phonological disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), Autism Spectrum Disorder and related disorders. Danielle currently works for Bergen County Special Services School District where she provides individual and group therapy to address the needs of students ages 3-21. She believes in working closely with caregivers and other members of the multidisciplinary team to promote an effective therapeutic experience. Most of all, she is passionate about creating fun-filled, meaningful activities that encourage engagement and motivation, and allow her clients to reach their optimal level of learning!
Speech Therapist:
Rebecca Jacobs
M.A. CCC-SLP
Rebecca received her Master of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders from Montclair State University. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).
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Rebecca is certified to treat the lifespan and has had the pleasure of working with both pediatrics and adults in a variety of areas including speech sound disorders, expressive and receptive language, swallowing disorders, voice, motor speech, and cognition.
Rebecca is certified in SPEAK OUT! and the McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program. She is working toward her board certification in swallowing and swallowing disorders. She currently performs modified barium swallow studies (mbss) and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) in the acute care and outpatient hospital setting.
Rebecca loves establishing a rapport with all of her clients. She loves helping her clients achieve all of their personal goals!
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When Rebecca is not treating her clients you can find her spending time with her husband, friends and family. You can catch her on the peloton app, golf course, and pickle ball court.
Speech Therapist:
Quinn Kelly
M.S. CCC-SLP
Quinn is a bilingual, American Sign Language-fluent, certified Speech-Language Pathologist with a Master of Science degree in Communication Science and Disorders from Mercy College. She is licensed in the state of New Jersey and New York, and a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Currently, Quinn works at a school for the Deaf, primarily servicing Deaf-Disabled students targeting AAC, expressive and receptive language in American Sign Language, as well as listening/spoken language goals.
As a bilingual therapist, Quinn specializes in working with AAC with individuals with multiple disabilities. Quinn has worked with both neurotypical and complex communicators through various approaches (eg., total communication, AAC, sensory based.) She has developed and published an informal assessment for AAC, as well as conducted and presented research about AAC on the national and international level. She is currently involved with two research projects focusing on using AAC for deaf individuals with disabilities. She currently holds an assistive technology professional certificate from RESNA. Quinn also has considerable experience working with d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals ages 3-21; she currently holds her ASL-PI from Gallaudet University.
When Quinn is not working, she spends her time with her fiancé and dog, and loves to read!
Speech Therapist:
Tamara Huth-Gargiulo​
M.S. CCC-SLP
Tamara Huth-Gargiulo is a licensed and ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologist with 25 years of experience. She graduated from William Paterson University with a Bachelor and Masters degree in Communication Disorders. Speech Pathology is her passion and she provides genuine enthusiasm, care, and empathy to all of her clients.
Tamara has dedicated her career to working with children and adolescents in an out-of-district special education school for students ages 3-21 years. During that time, she has developed key skills in working with students diagnosed with ASD and ADHD as well as those with significant emotional/behavioral challenges. In conjunction, Tamara spent 20 years working as a part-time SLP providing Early Intervention services for children birth-3 years. Currently, she provides speech and language therapy with a diverse group of young adults with disabilities in their group homes. She enjoys providing these young adults with functional life skills not only in their homes, but also out in the community.
Cooking/baking, ordering food, food shopping, and money management are just a few of the areas in which she provides real-life learning opportunities. Tamara’s passion is fostering language growth and improvement throughout the life-span, empowering individuals of all ages to achieve their communicative potential. Tamara is well versed in childhood apraxia of speech, articulation and phonological disorders, auditory processing
disorders, executive functioning issues, pragmatic disorders and cognitive deficits. Utilizing a total communication approach, she incorporates sign language, picture schedules/boards, and AAC devices into her sessions. Tamara strives to view and understand how her client’s communication issues affect their everyday lives. Her goals are to help promote the best communication possible for her clients and to support their
families/caregivers through the process. It is a team effort and she feels truly fortunate to be part of that team.
Tamara resides in Bergen County with her husband and two children as well as with her dog, Cookie, and her cat, Holly. She loves being outdoors!
Speech Therapist:
Emily Kolankowski
M.S. CCC-SLP
Emily Kolankowski is a licensed speech-language pathologist in the state of New Jersey and a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Emily earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Northeastern University.
Throughout the past 11 years, Emily has experience working with a wide range of pediatric clients and their families to support growth across settings. Experience includes working to improve articulation, receptive/expressive language skills, fluency, pragmatic language, and AAC needs. Emily believes an essential part of success is to work as a collaborative team while making therapy fun and functional to help a child grow into their best self. Currently, Emily works in a K-8 district that includes a specialized program for children with Autism.
When not with clients and their families, Emily enjoys spending time with her family, participating in triathlons, and learning to make a new recipe.
Speech Therapist:
Katherine Lubarsky
M.S. CCC-SLP
Kate received her Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences from William Paterson University and is a licensed speech-language pathologist in the state of New Jersey who is board certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC). Additionally, Kate holds her Masters of Special Education with a concentration in Assistive Technology from Bowling Green State University.
Her professional experience includes working with children ages one- adulthood focusing on articulation, cognition, receptive/expressive language, fluency, AAC, and pragmatics. Kate is currently employed at the Kinnelon School District where she has worked with children from K – 5th grade for the past 11 years. She also has experience in private practices as well as home-based setting. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her 1 year old daughter, cooking, and traveling.
Speech Therapist:
Rawda Abdelmenam
M.S. CCC-SLP
Rawda Abdelmenam is a bi-lingual, speech-language pathologist in the state of New Jersey and a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Rawda attended Seton Hall University, where she earned a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and a Bachelor of Arts in Special and General Education.
She has experience in a variety of settings including: out-patient and in-patient at a hospital, NICU, public and non-public schools. Rawda enjoys working with children with multiple disabilities with a variety of speech and communication needs. She provides services for receptive and expressive language disorders, pragmatics, fluency, voice disorders, feeding and swallowing disorders, and acquired cognitive disorders. She is passionate about feeding and swallowing disorders across the life-span and is trained in the CAN-EAT Approach and the SOS Approach to Feeding.
Speech Therapist:
Pooja Shah
M.S. CCC-SLP
Pooja received her Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Ithaca College. She is a licensed speech-language pathologist in the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association and the Speech Language Specialist certification through the NJ Department of Education.
Pooja is fluent in both English and Gujarati. She has worked with patients of all ages ranging from 13 months to 90+ years old. Pooja treats a variety of disorders including: receptive and expressive language disorders, articulation and phonology, auditory processing disorder, aphasia, dysphasia, accent modification and cognitive-communication disorders. In the past, Pooja has worked at private practices, schools and skilled nursing facilities. Pooja enjoys working with other professionals for patient-centered care. Pooja also strives for cultural competency during her sessions.
Outside of work, Pooja enjoys relaxing at home with her husband, enjoys traveling, reading, enjoys cooking, spending time with family and friends.
Speech Therapist:
Jocelynne Andrade
M.S. CCC-SLP
Jocelynne received a Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Seton Hall University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences at Stockton University. She is currently in her Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY), and holds a temporary license to practice in New Jersey. At the end of her CFY, she will hold a permanent license as a Speech-Language Pathologist in the state of New Jersey and hold her certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).
During her graduate studies, she solidified her passion for providing bilingual services and serving a culturally diverse population. She is passionate about communication in any and all modalities, acknowledging the idea of “culture and communication cannot be separated!” She is a Spanish-speaking clinician, who provides bilingual and monolingual services across the lifespan. She has experience working in private practice, skilled nursing facility, hospital-based subacute and acute care, and rehab outpatient services. Currently providing services for receptive and expressive language disorders, articulation, fluency, pragmatics, swallowing disorders, and cognitive-linguistic disorders.
When Jocelynne is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, close friends, and Coco (her dog). She enjoys hot yoga, traveling, and trying new food places.
Speech Therapist:
Alexandra Caminneci
M.S. CCC-SLP
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Alexandra earned her Master of Science degree in Speech Language Pathology from Seton Hall University. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Montclair State University, where she also minored in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), a New Jersey state license, and a Speech Language Specialist (SLS) certificate through the New Jersey Department of Education.
Alex has evaluated and treated individuals with various diagnoses across the lifespan. Her professional experience includes working in public and specialized schools, as well as the Veterans Affairs Hospital. Currently she works in a school serving children with autism and related learning difficulties. Throughout all of her experiences, building a strong relationship with her students/clients and their families has been a top priority.
In her free time, Alex enjoys spending time with her loved ones, exercising, baking, and being outside.
Speech Therapist:
Michelle Zerelik
M.S. CF-SLP
Michelle received her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Seton Hall University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Family Science and Human Development with a concentration in Speech-Language Pathology from Montclair State University. She is currently in her Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) and holds a temporary license to practice in New Jersey. Upon completion of her CFY, she will hold a permanent license as a Speech-Language Pathologist in the state of New Jersey and hold a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). In addition, Michelle currently holds a Speech Language Specialist certification through the NJ Department of Education.
Michelle has an immense passion for working with children and puts emphasis on patient advocacy and the importance of ensuring that children have access to communication; in whatever modality that may be. During her graduate studies, Michelle completed multiple clinical rotations focused in the areas of pediatric and adult expressive/receptive communication, prelinguistic skills/pragmatics, articulation, apraxia, cognition, and dysphagia. She has also completed research focusing on pediatric feeding disorders in the Cerebral Palsy population and presented this research at NJSHA 2023. Further experience includes providing home care early intervention for 0-3 year-olds and education to their families. This particular experience gave her the exposure to babies and their families that helped to solidify her passion for working in the pediatric population. Michelle is trained in ASL, basic sign language, and has an extensive background in play-based therapy. She prides herself in making sure to emphasize person-centered care for all her clients and their families.
In her free time Michelle enjoys spending time with friends and family! She looks forward to starting her career with The Way You Say LLC and working toward making positive impacts on the lives of many!
Speech Therapist:
Sherry Aziz
M.S. CCC-SLP
Sherry received her Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Pace University in 2020. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) and is licensed to practice speech language pathology in both New Jersey and New York.
She has had the pleasure of working with individuals of varying ages in a wide array of communication areas, including expressive and receptive language, articulation, dysphagia, fluency, cognition, and social communication. Sherry gained experience in a variety of settings, including schools, skilled nursing facilities, and teletherapy. Sherry is dedicated to serving her clients and their families and is passionate about helping individuals find their voice.
In her free time, Sherry enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and spoiling her two adorable pups, Chewy and Pawli.
Speech Therapist:
Maria Ciraco
M.S. CCC-SLP
Maria is a speech-language pathologist bilingual in spoken English and American Sign Language. She received a Master of Science degree in Communication Science and Disorders from Mercy College, and is licensed in the state of New York. Maria is also a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and holds a Teacher for Students with Speech-Language Disabilities license (TSSLD). Currently, Maria works at a school for the Deaf.
Maria specializes in working with students with multiple disabilities, and primarily services Deaf-Disabled students to improve their receptive and expressive language. Maria also has experience working with students with articulation disorders and language disorders in spoken English. She has worked with students on their articulation goals using the Sounds in Motion (SIM) program.
When Maria is not working, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family.
Speech Therapist:
Veronique Hildevert
M.S. CCC-SLP
Veronique received her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Teachers College Columbia University and her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Marymount Manhattan College. During her undergraduate and graduate studies, she worked with clients from birth to adult, with internship experiences at clinics, private practice, hospitals, public schools, and daycare settings. She is licensed to practice in the State of New Jersey and the State of New York. She is nationally certified by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and currently holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC).
Since 2016, Veronique has implemented evidence-based assessment and treatment methods as a service provider for the New York City Department of Education with students in Pre-K through High School. As a school-based speech-language pathologist, she has had the pleasure of working with students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in individual and group settings. She has treated children with diagnoses of Autism, speech-language impairment, dyslexia, intellectual disability, emotional disability, and Down Syndrome. She has addressed receptive and expressive language skills, fluency, articulation/phonological disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), phonology, and social skills (pragmatics). Veronique continues to foster interdisciplinary and family collaboration to help her clients carry over learned skills in the school, home, and community settings.
When Veronique is not working, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, playing saxophone in a wind ensemble, and attending live music and theater performances.
Speech Therapist:
Jennifer Sakowitz
M.S. CCC-SLP
Jen is an ASHA certified and NJ licensed speech language pathologist. She received her masters degree in speech language pathology from Boston University and her bachelors degree in elementary and special education from Vanderbilt University. In her almost 15 years of practice, Jen has worked across a variety of settings, including children’s hospitals, schools, private clinics, and in the home setting. She has experience evaluating and treating children of all ages with varying medical diagnoses and speech/communication needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, expressive/receptive language disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, apraxia of speech, pragmatic language, and various forms of AAC.
Jen loves connecting with children and finding ways to naturally engage them through play. She believes children learn best when they are intrinsically motivated, and utilizes a play-based and child-led approach, individualizing sessions for each child based on their strengths and interests. In addition, Jen continues to expand her skillset, participating in various trainings and certifications. She is PROMPT trained, has LAMP Words for Life coursework, and is in the process of completing Meaningful Speech (Gestalt Language Processing) certification.
When not working, Jen enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children. She loves Broadway, tennis, and enjoying a nice meal out with family and friends.
Speech Therapist:
Meridith Farley
M.S. CCC-SLP
Meridith graduated from Seton Hall University with her master’s in Speech-Language Pathology. Prior, she received a bachelor’s in Psychology from Ramapo College of New Jersey. Meridith holds a New Jersey State license, as well as a Certification of Clinical Competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association. Since beginning her career in 2020, she has worked primarily with the pediatric population from ages 3-18.
Currently, Meridith works in a K-8 public school system and at a private practice, working with children of varying abilities. She has experience working with articulation, myofunctional, phonological, expressive/receptive language, social/pragmatic and fluency disorders. Additionally, she has worked with individuals with ASD and ADHD.
Outside of being a speech-language pathologist, Meridith enjoys spending time down the shore, going to concerts and watching the Yankees and Giants. She also loves traveling to new places and raising her two dogs, Emma and Billie.
Speech Therapist:
Dylan Kelczewski
M.S. CCC-SLP
Dylan is a licensed Speech Language Pathologist in the state of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from James Madison University and her Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences – Speech Language Pathology from William Paterson University.
Throughout her clinical experience, Dylan has treated and evaluated patients with a variety of speech, language, feeding, and swallowing disorders across the lifespan, specializing in pediatrics, in private, outpatient hospital, clinic, and school settings. She has worked with children with, including but not limited to, expressive and receptive language disorders/delays, speech sound disorders, feeding and swallowing disorders, ADHD, ASD, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and Auditory Processing Disorder.
Dylan appreciates a client-centered approach to speech and feeding therapy, and is trained in Hanen strategies, and SOS feeding. In addition, she is knowledgeable with a variety of AAC communication methods, including picture exchange communication system (PECS), communication boards, infant signing, and electronic voice output devices. Furthermore, Dylan tailors her approach to each individual client to best meet their needs, as well as involve families/caregivers to the extent possible to promote carryover of skills. She enjoys establishing fun, multi-sensory therapeutic play-based interventions to encourage speech, language, and diet expansion.
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Her interests include: yoga, hiking, and spending time with her husband and son.
Speech Therapist:
Missy Leviten
M.S. CCC-SLP
Missy Leviten, MS, CCC-SLP is a graduate of the University of Maryland and Boston University's Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. She has over 11 years of experience working for the top ranked hospitals in New York, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. area including. Missy is licensed to provide services in New York and New Jersey. She holds the ASHA certificate of clinical competence in speech language pathology (CCC-SLP).
Missy has worked across the continuum of care, from Level IV neonatal intensive care units to acute inpatient rehabilitation for children recovering from acquired brain injury to outpatient rehabilitation for developmental speech and feeding. Missy also works as an adjunct clinical instructor for her alma mater's undergraduate Hearing and Speech Sciences program (Go Terps!) and for New York University's graduate program in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Speech Therapist:
Eleni Chryssos
M.S. CCC-SLP
Eleni is a licensed speech language pathologist in New Jersey. She received her Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology from the University of Nevada, Reno and her Masters of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from New York University. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and Speech Language Specialist (SLS) Certification from the NJ Department of Education. She is also Level I and Level II PROMPT trained.
Eleni has gained experience working in a variety of settings including university clinic, private practice, hospital, and educational ranging from ages 18 months to 70 years. She has worked with various communication needs and populations, including but not limited to: expressive/receptive language disorders, articulation disorders, motor speech disorders, fluency, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Eleni currently works in the public school setting where she provides individual and group therapy. She is passionate about providing fun and exciting therapy to kids while also making it functional for their daily lives and special interests!
When she is not treating her clients, Eleni enjoys taking fitness classes, Sunday bakery visits with her cavapoo and hubby, and traveling to Greece to visit family.
Speech Therapist:
Monica Ratner
M.S. CCC-SLP
Monica is an ASHA certified and NJ and NY licensed speech language pathologist. She received her masters degree in speech language pathology from Long Island University and her bachelors degree in communicative sciences and disorders from West Chester University. In her 10 years of practice, Monica has worked across a variety of settings, predominately the schools with children ranging from prek-high school, private practices, and early intervention. She has experience evaluating and treating children of all ages with various speech and language needs, expressive and receptive language disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, pragmatic language, Autism Spectrum Disorders and Selective Mutism.
Monica loves working with children and helping them find a way to communicate in their most naturalistic environment throughout highly engaging and motivating activities. She centers each session specifically to each child’s individualized needs and their strengths and interests.
When not working as a speech language pathologist, Monica enjoys spending time with her husband and three boys- Brett (4 years), Shane (2 years) and Parker (4 months). She loves taking walks, reading a good novel, working out and spending time with her family and friends.