I am so very excited to experience the community and culture of Ghana and Rwanda. As a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), I am constantly training in the most recent evidence based practice to ensure my clients get the best holistic care possible. I am trained in practices such as Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs), Gestalt Language Processing/Natural Language Acquisition, Oral Placement Therapy (OPT), Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Sensory-Oral Motor Feeding Therapy, and Spanish pediatric assessment and treatment. Prior to my travels, I will be trained in Beckman Oral Motor Training. I also am well versed in the use of Alternative and Augmentative Communicative (AAC) with neurotypical and neurodivergent populations (e.g., ADHD, Autism, Gifted, etc.).
Through my experience with Smiles for Speech, I have learned that countries such as Ghana and Rwanda would benefit from knowledge and resources such as those listed above. However, cultural sensitivity and awareness are extremely important when considering cultures other than my own. Which I have experienced here in the United States in communities with majority Native Spanish speakers and/or immigrants from various countries around the world.
The tools that I will provide to these communities are life changing. As I strongly believe in utilizing an evidence-based, holistic course of treatment addressing the whole person. I am confident this experience will be rewarding for myself and those who I will collaborate with while on my journey.
As a Hispanic individual and SLP diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), I have experienced inequities in my daily life due to lack of awareness and/or knowledge of the most updated research and practices. Everyone deserves equal and equitable opportunities to better their overall quality of life. The fact that I can bring this knowledge to collaborate with another community means the world to me
I would love and appreciate assistance in bringing my knowledge and tools to these countries so their communities can gain access. Thank you so much! Any and all assistance is greatly appreciated.
