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- Lauren
- Gordon
- 2076 S. Independence Blvd, Suite 1B
Virginia Beach
Virginia
23453
United States - Ivy Rehab for Kids
Virginia Beach
Virginia
23453
United States
In my initial planning, I begin with a systems analysis to identify the child’s strengths, challenges, and emerging patterns of mastery. This information guides me in selecting motor speech targets that are within the child’s current abilities. When addressing these targets, I draw from my training in PROMPT and DTTC to offer appropriate levels of support based on the child’s needs. I integrate these goals into play-based activities, allowing the child to learn through meaningful, engaging interactions. While we work hard during sessions, the strong rapport we build early on and the fun we incorporate throughout help keep the child motivated and positive.
Although our sessions are filled with fun, they’re also packed with meaningful, hard work. I use a blended approach that combines child-led and therapist-directed strategies, allowing the child to feel a sense of control while I carefully structure the practice and feedback. Each session includes a variety of multi-sensory cues tailored to the child’s needs, such as visual models, verbal prompts, and tactile input, to support their growth and learning. I help children build confidence by celebrating their effort and reminding them that while speech can be challenging, they’re not alone—I’m here to support them.
I actively involve parents in therapy sessions whenever possible, as their participation is key to supporting their child’s progress. Parents are invited to be in the room during sessions, allowing for real-time coaching and modeling of strategies that work best for their child. When in-person participation isn’t possible, I collaborate with parents to develop a functional vocabulary list tailored to their child’s needs. I provide ongoing education about their child’s performance and progress, and when appropriate, offer home practice activities. If a parent wishes to support practice at home, I ensure they clearly understand which cues are effective and how to use them accurately.
The successful use of AAC across different settings relies heavily on family involvement. I believe that alternative communication methods can significantly boost a child’s confidence, especially when we need to support their intelligibility. To ensure comprehensive care, I include language assessment in all of my evaluations, which helps inform whether a high-tech AAC trial is appropriate. In some cases—especially those that are milder—a low-tech option like a picture exchange system or vocabulary board may be more suitable. Regardless of the format, AAC is a powerful tool for building vocabulary and grammatical skills, playing an important role in achieving long-term communication goals.