I have been working as a qualified Speech and Language Therapist for the past 12 years, graduating from Leeds Metropolitan University (now known as Leeds Beckett University) in 2011. I have extensive experience working with autistic people, children with complex learning and sensory needs and children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs, working in a range of clinical settings, such as primary, secondary and special schools amongst other specialist settings for both the NHS, private sector and most recently a charity.
I am passionate about and have spent my career working in multi-disciplinary teams to ensure the client is at the centre and receives the best outcome.
Since July 2022 I have worked at a charity providing a diagnostic service for both children and adults presenting with complex differences, where there is the possibility of an autism diagnosis. I am trained to administer diagnostic assessment tools such as the ADOS-2 and ADI-R assessment.
During my time in the NHS, I had a range of specialisms when working with children from 3-19 years including AAC, downs syndrome, DLD and working with profoundly deaf children. I am trained in BSL level one and two, working with the deaf part one and two, shapecoding and a range of other training.
Whilst working for a private company, I was a Clinical Manager. I helped to develop the skills of 13 other speech and language therapists, supporting, coaching and guiding them through different speech, language, and communication approaches to support their caseload.
I am particularly passionate about the diagnostic journey as this is a crucial time for all members of the family and especially the individual. It can be a daunting process, which is why I am very keen to ensure families receive the best care from myself. I am neurodiverse which aids me to understand others with empathy. Furthermore, as a parent of two children, I have personal experience of guiding a young person through life with developmental differences and how to navigate positive and challenging times.
My approach is empathetic, warm, caring and friendly. I am registered with the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).