Improving communication skills.

Speech therapists (SLPs) and speech therapy assistants (SLPAs) provide specialized interventions that help individuals improve expressive/receptive language (using and understanding language), augmentative alternative communication (AAC device), social language, voice quality, fluency (e.g. stuttering), and articulation. Sessions support socialization, engagement with peers, and total communication.

Our therapists embrace a transdisciplinary approach and communicate with other members of a treatment team to support the whole individual and best outcomes. Families are always welcome and encouraged to attend therapy sessions, are provided a home program to assist with skill acquisition across environments, and are provided quarterly reports from the therapist to keep them informed of progress.

Speech Therapy Team

KAREN ALWARD
KAREN ALWARD Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, (SLP-A)

Role:

  • As a Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) at L.I.F.E., I work with a variety of individuals in one-on-one therapy sessions. Providing quality speech interventions and therapeutic strategies to children with developmental disabilities.

Education and Trainings:

  • Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA), Northern Arizona University, 2019
  • Music Together Teacher Training and Internship, 2016
  • Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT): Basis for Assessment and Treatment, 2011
  • Drum Facilitation Training, Arizona State University, 2010
  • Feeding Therapy Conference, Dawn Winkelmann, M.S., SLP-CCC, 2009
  • Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT), M.H. Thaut, Ph.D., Colorado State University, 2006
  • B.M. in Music Therapy, Radford University, 2001

Career History:

As a SLPA, I most recently worked in the school setting with children on the autism spectrum. I have provided services to children with developmental disabilities for over a decade as a music therapist. I’ve had the opportunity to use both my skill sets to motivate children toward reaching their highest potential. During my career, I have worked in medical settings, day treatment clinics, and home-based therapy. Back in 2007, I worked as a music therapist at L.I.F.E., I’m glad to be back and looking forward to applying my speech skill set.

Personal Treatment Philosophy:

My philosophy on therapy is a comprehensive holistic approach. Taking all things into consideration and knowing that they are all interconnected. Developing a strategic plan that encourages meaningful human connections while providing the support for practicing therapy goals.

Personal:

Besides my passion for making music, seeing live music, and generally all things musical, I enjoy cooking and the outdoors. Running and hiking are frequent activities, as well as overlanding and camping with my husband, two kids, and dog.

Contact Us for More Information About L.I.F.E.

Call us at 480-621-8361 EXT 136 or complete this form

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