Meet Our Staff
Julia Chernova M.A., CCC-SLP, QOM
Julia Chernova founded Speech Therapy Plus LLC in 2015, a center that specializes in many services for young children and adults including Expressive and Receptive language disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, voice disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, Apraxia of Speech, auditory processing, social pragmatic language, fluency disorders, stuttering and feeding/swallowing disorders and language impairments. She is trained to work with adults with Cognitive Communication Disorders resulting from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a brain infection, or degenerative disease such as Dementia or Multiple Sclerosis. Julia received training for the Associate level through the Academy of Orton – Gillingham. She has been utilizing the Orton-Gillingham multisensory, kinesthetic and phonic approach to help children who have difficulties with reading, spelling, and writing. Julia is a Qualified Orofacial Myologist and a member of the IAOM (International Association of Orofacial Myology). She is trained to treat a range of orofacial myology disorders that often impact tongue placement, tongue thrust, tongue ties, feeding/swallowing, noxious oral habits, airway patency/disordered breathing, airway orthodontics and craniofacial development. Julia provides feeding therapy, for picky eaters, children with feeding disorders, ARFID, and medically compromised children who are transitioning from tube to oral feeding, have poor weight gain due to limited oral intake, and demonstrate food refusal. She is SOS (Sequential Oral Sensory) Approach to Feeding trained and utilizes a family-centric approach to all her intervention strategies to help promote consumption of healthy nutritious foods.
Julia is an English-Russian bilingual speech-language pathologist. During her professional career, Julia has had the opportunity to work with a variety of populations and disorders. She also has gained experience working as a speech-language pathologist in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, homes, daycare’s, and outpatient rehabilitation. Populations served include Traumatic Brain Injury, Vocal Disorders, Aphasia, and cognitive impairments. She earned additional training in the LiPS program for children with speech and reading disorders. Julia is PROMPT Level 1 trained and has extensive experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), such as the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and voice output devices.
Jennifer Savitsky M.A., CCC-SLP, QOM
As a New Jersey licensed speech-language pathologist, Jennifer has enjoyed serving individuals across the life span. She has worked in pediatric clinics, private schools serving individuals with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), subacute rehabilitation facilities, and adult outpatient facilities. Special areas of clinical interest include: childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), orofacial myology, articulation and phonological speech sound disorders, AAC training using LAMP and Aided Language Stimulation approaches, and social skills training. Jennifer has received ASHA’s Award for Continuing Education (ACE). Her training includes, but is not limited to: Beckman oral motor assessment and intervention, the PROMPT method (Levels 1 and 2 trained), Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS – Pyramid trained), Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol for childhood apraxia of speech, Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) approach to AAC training, behavioral based interventions for autism such as Pivotal Response Treatment, and the VitalStim dysphagia therapy system. Jennifer is credentialed as a Qualified Orofacial Myologist (QOM) through Neo-Health Services and is a trained member of the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM). Jennifer loves her field and values ongoing professional development to provide the most appropriate services to her clients. She is proud to work alongside the skillful team at Speech Therapy Plus.
Jennifer holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association (ASHA), and holds a Speech Language Specialist (SLS) certificate issued by the New Jersey Department of Education. Jennifer received her Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Montclair State University in 2011. She received her Bachelors of Arts degree in Elementary Education (K-5) from Rowan University.
Talia Napoletano M.S., CCC-SLP
Talia Napoletano graduated from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania with her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders. She continued to complete her graduate program at Monmouth University, where she received her Master of Science in Education in Speech-Language Pathology. Talia earned her Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) and is a certified member and provider for the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) and is fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. Talia currently holds her Speech-Language Specialist (SLS) certificate and works full-time in a private specialized school for students with disabilities. Talia has a comprehensive background and years of experience treating patients and students with complex communication needs (CCN), sensory, and behavioral needs.
Through her work within specialized schools, Talia has become passionate about Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC), and has experience working with programs such as Proloquo2Go, Go Talk, Touch Chat, PECS, and LAMP. She implements Aided Language Stimulation (ALS) to help AAC users and patients with limited verbal output to access vocabulary and communicate using visuals and symbols. Her experience in a private practice setting has developed her skills working with late talkers, auditory processing disorder, ADHD, ASD, fluency, articulation, and phonological disorders. Talia holds a certificate in Clinical Fellowship Supervision and supervises newly graduated speech-language pathologists in hopes to share her knowledge and further develop the profession. She has been conducting evaluations for over a year and enjoys helping patients and families seek help to begin their speech therapy journey.
Talia’s areas of special interest include Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC), language and literacy, and pragmatic language skills such as play-based therapy and social communication.
Suzanne Erickson M.S., CCC-SLP
Suzanne graduate from Kean University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences and a Master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Montclair University. Suzanne is certified as a speech language pathologist by the American Speech and Hearing Association and is licensed in the state of NJ. She also has a certification as a school speech language specialist in NJ. Suzanne has extensive experience working with children with many different disabilities both in the private and public school settings. She has also continued to work with young children as part of the NJ state Early Intervention System. Additionally, Suzanne has experience as a supervisor for both graduate students and clinical fellows, overseeing and mentoring clinical internships and externships. Suzanne has training in Level one PROMPT, augmentative and alternative communication systems, and the Picture Exchange Communication System.
Ashley Callahan M.S., CCC-SLP
Ashley is a New Jersey state licensed and American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) certified Speech-Language Pathologist. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders and Sciences with minors in Psychology and Cognitive Science from William Paterson University and a Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology at Seton Hall University. Ashley works full time as an inpatient acute care and outpatient rehabilitation therapist with the adult and geriatric populations. She has experience assessing and treating adults with voice disorders, dysarthria, apraxia, aphasia, head/neck cancer, Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia, ALS, among others. Special interests include dysphagia and voice therapy. Prior to working with adults, Ashley has experience with children ages 3-12 in both the public school and specialized school settings. Ashley has treated school-aged children with a variety of disorders including; articulation, expressive/receptive language, and pragmatic language disorders. Ashley also has experience with different modes of Alternative and Augmentative Communication devices. Ashley brings a positive attitude and promotes an environment for success and growth.
Susan Zelinka M.S., CCC-SLP
Susan is an American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) certified Speech and Language Pathologist with both a Master of Science Degree from Teacher’s College, Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science Degree from Syracuse University in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Over the past 25 + years, she has worked in multidisciplinary clinic, home, public school, university clinic, and remote based settings, specializing in the evaluation and treatment of children with a range of diagnoses from Articulation and/or Phonological Disorders, Apraxia, and Developmental Delay to Language, Pragmatic, and Sensory Processing Disorders. She was also an adjunct clinical instructor in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at NYU, supervising graduate students. She has worked extensively with the Early Intervention Programs in multiple states over the years, including NY, NJ, CA and FL and is currently licensed to practice in NJ, CA, FL, and ME. Susan loves working one on one with her clients and their families as they navigate individual communication challenges.
Amanda Sargenti M.S., CCC-SLP
Lindsay Briglio M.S., CCC-SLP
Lindsay is a NJ state licensed and ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologist. She is a graduate of New York Medical College. Lindsay has been working in the acute care hospital setting and outpatient setting for over 10 years. She enjoys evaluating and treating children and adults of all ages. She has worked in the Early Intervention setting as well. Lindsay has experience evaluating and treating individuals with articulation disorders, receptive-expressive language disorders, feeding and swallowing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder, aphasia, dysarthria, and apraxia. Lindsay has extensive experience performing and interpreting modified barium swallow studies and FEES on inpatient and outpatient settings. She also has supervised and mentored graduate students and Clinical Fellows. Lindsay has a passion for working with individuals of all ages and helping others.
Colleen Strazdas M.S. ED.,CCC-SLP
Colleen is a New Jersey state licensed and American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) certified Speech-Language Pathologist. She graduated from Boston University with a B.S., in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences and Monmouth University with an M.S Ed. in Speech Language Pathology.
Colleen’s primary experience as a SLP is in the school setting where she works with school-age children to improve their communication and language skills. She has worked with children of all ages with various disorders an diagnosis including, but not limited to articulation and phonology, expressive and receptive language Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Down Syndrome. She also has a continued interest in treating across the lifespan and is passionate about creating an environment for her clients that is fun, engaging and individualized. Colleen believes that interdisciplinary and family collaboration leads to greater clints success and strives to make sessions functional and meaningful.
Bethany Killian M.S., CCC-SLP
Bethany Killian is a Speech-Language Pathologist who graduated from Ithaca College with a Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. She then received her Masters of Science degree from Seton Hall University. Bethany spent 14 years working in a public school with children classified as Preschool Children with Disabilities. She has also worked in private practice and early intervention settings with children birth to 21 years of age.
Bethany holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association, as well as her New Jersey state license and Speech-Language Specialist Certificate. She has also obtained a Certificate in Autism Studies. Bethany is experienced in areas including Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Autism, articulation and phonological disorders, motor speech disorders including apraxia of speech, pragmatic communication, and receptive/expressive language delays and disorders. She has extensive experience in assessment as well.
Bethany has a passion for AAC, both low and high tech, and working with children with Autism. She believes that every child has the ability to communicate and enjoys discovering the best and most efficient way to make that possible for children and their families.
Renee Travisano M.A., CCC-SLP
Renee Travisano graduated from Bloomsburg University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and a Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology from New York University. She is a licensed Speech and Language Therapist through the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA), the State of New Jersey and a Speech-Language Specialist through the New Jersey Department of Education. With over 20+ years experience, Renee has worked in school districts in both New York City and New Jersey ranging from preschool through high school. She is experienced with Early Intervention in both NY and NJ, and currently conducts evaluations in school settings. She worked as an independent contractor and as an adjunct clinical professor, supervising graduate students at William Paterson University’s Speech and Hearing Clinic. Renee specializes in the evaluation and treatment of children with a variety of diagnoses, including Developmentally Delayed Language, Articulation/Phonology, Accent Reduction, Pragmatic and Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing and Reading Delays. She is trained in PROMPT method (Level 1), Orton Gillingham and Wilson Reading Program.
Laura Ironman M.S., CCC-SLP
Laura graduated with her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. She is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist by the American Speech and Hearing Association and is licensed in the states of NJ, MD, MA and in Washington DC. She has worked closely with clients ages 0-21 years in clinical, school and home health settings. She is trained in PROMPT level one and Augmentative and Alternative Communication systems, high tech and low. In previous contexts, Laura worked closely with Occupational Therapists, and now loves incorporating sensory integration into sessions. She has extensive experience working with the autistic community, as well as with clients with Childhood Apraxia of Speech. In her free time, Laura enjoys going on hikes with her fiancé and keeping up with new and improved ways to help children communicate.
Madison Somple M.S., CCC-SLP
Madison is a New Jersey state licensed and American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) certified Speech-Language Pathologist. She graduated from Montclair State University with a B.S., in Linguistics as well Speech Language and Hearing Sciences and Monmouth University with an M.S Ed. in Speech Language PathologyMadison’s primary experience as a SLP is in the school setting where she works with school-age children to improve their communication and language skills. She has worked with children of all ages with various disorders an diagnosis including, but not limited to articulation and phonology, expressive and receptive language, Autism Spectrum Disorder, fluency disorders, auditory processing, and social skills. She also has a continued interest in treating across the lifespan and is passionate about creating an environment for her clients that is fun, engaging and individualized. Madison has had multiple experiences with the use of Augmentative Alternative Devices (AAC) and programming such as TouchChat WordPower, GoTalk Now Plus, and low-tech AAC boards. Madison believes to display confidence, a positive attitude, and an ability to learn efficiently in various situations is what makes her sessions functional and meaningful.
Julianna Azzizzo M.S., CCC-SLP
Julianna is a school based NJ state licenced and American Speech Lanugage Hearing Association (ASHA) certified Speech Language Pathologist. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Penn State University and a Masters of Science in Communication Disorders: Speech-Language Pathology from Adelphi University. She also holds an English-Italian Bilingual Extension certificate and a Level One PROMPT certificate. She has worked in several public and private schools and with a wide variety of students. She has experience working with students in PreK all the way to high school, and with a variety of populations including Autism Spectrum Disorder, language disorders, Multiple Disabilities, and Speech Sound/Articulation disorders. She enjoys making therapy sessions fun and play-based, helping to make a difference in the lives of the children and their families, and helping them grow to their full potential.
Ashley Screc M.S., CCC-SLP
Ashley Skrec graduated from Marist College with her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Special Education. She then attended Kean University where she received her Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology. Ashley holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) as a certified member of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) and is fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. Ashley holds her Speech-Language Specialist (SLS) certificate and works full-time in a public elementary school with students between the ages of 3 and 10 years old. She has experience evaluating and treating children with expressive-receptive and pragmatic language disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as fluency and articulation disorders. Ashley also has clinical experience evaluating and treating adults with various speech and language disorders including aphasia, dysarthria, and apraxia. Ashley is passionate about helping individuals of all ages improve their communication skills.
Julia Drubel, M.A., CCC-SLP
Julia is an ASHA certified and New Jersey Licensed Speech Language Pathologist. She graduated from Hofstra University’s accelerated master’s program with a Masters of the Arts in Speech Language Pathology. Julia’s experience includes working in subacute rehabilitation and skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, as well as in private practice. She has experience treating children and adults with speech sound disorders, phonological disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, apraxia of speech, and mild cognitive impairment, TBI, aphasia, cognitive-communication disorders, voice disorders, swallowing, and motor speech disorders. In her free time Julia enjoys knitting and playing tennis.
Beatrice Zdorovyak, M.S., CCC-SLP
Beatrice is an English-Russian bilingual speech-language pathologist who holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association (ASHA). Beatrice received her Bachelor of Science degree in Communicative Disorders from the University of Rhode Island and Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Yeshiva University.
Beatrice has extensive background in treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She holds a Board-Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) certification from the Behavioral Intervention Certification Council (BICC). Beatrice incorporates her experience and knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in therapy to address and decrease challenging behaviors. Beatrice runs social groups for children, where she encourages interaction between peers and models language for pragmatic functions. Additionally, Beatrice has experience working in an outpatient clinic setting with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Beatrice has also worked to address expressive-receptive language disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, cognitive-communication disorders, fluency disorders, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), with both low and high-tech devices. Beatrice is Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets (PROMPT) Level 1 trained and has experience using Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) to address motor speech disorders, including Apraxia of Speech (AOS). Beatrice received Level 1 Talk Tools Oral Placement Training (OPT) and uses a tactile-proprioceptive teaching approach to improve her patients’ speech clarity and oral skills required for feeding. She enjoys developing goals to create functional means of communication and believes that everyone deserves to have a voice!
Melissa Manning, M.S., CCC-SLP
Melissa Manning, M.S., CCC-SLP is a speech-language pathologist who received her Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and a minor in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 2017. She received her Masters degree in Speech-Language Pathology from William Paterson University in 2021. Before attending graduate school, Melissa was an instructional paraprofessional at a special needs school, where she provided individualized assistance to special needs students aged 3-21 on the Autism spectrum daily in a variety of classroom settings. She mentored her students in the areas of socially appropriate behavior and life skills, and provided assistance in achieving their academic and vocational goals throughout the school year.
As a speech therapist, Melissa has acquired experience in both school and private practice settings, both in person and virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. Melissa has treated school-age children and young adults with a variety of disorders, including articulation and phonological disorders, receptive, expressive and pragmatic language disorders, fluency disorders, early intervention, and myo-functional disorders.
Melissa believes in creating a learning environment that is not only educational but also fun. She believes in making sure that goals are functional to her clients’ daily lives and always looks for ways to relate what is being taught in her therapy sessions to the outside world. Melissa looks forward to building strong relationships not only with her clients but also their families, and is excited to be given the opportunity to help others grow in their speech and language abilities.
Samantha Hernandez, CF-SLP
Samantha received her Bachelor of Science degree in Audiology & Speech-Language Sciences and Master of Art degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Northern Colorado. Samantha is also set to receive her Speech-Language Specialist certificate from the New Jersey Board of Education. Samantha is currently completing her clinical fellowship and has a background of working with both children and adults in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. She has experience assessing and treating adults with voice disorders, dysphagia, aphasia, Parkinson’s Disease, dementia, head and neck cancer, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Samantha also has experience assessing and treating children with language disorders, articulation/phonology disorders, fluency disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and childhood apraxia of speech, among other disorders.
Jill Benyamine M.S., CCC-SLP
Jill Benyamine is a certified Speech Language Pathologist who is licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. She graduated with a Master of Science degree from William Paterson University. Jill is a member of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and the New Jersey Speech Hearing Association (NJSHA), and earned the ACE Award for Continuing Education from ASHA in 2021. Her clinical interests include child language acquisition, language development and disorders, and motor speech disorders.
Jill works full time in a public school district in Bergen County, where she works with students with a variety of communication disorders, including articulation, language disorders, and Autism. She has experience in Early Intervention working with clients from birth to age 3, in preschool programs, and with adults with varying degrees of age-related and acquired speech and language disorders, and accent reduction.
Jill is trained in PROMPT, PECS, and has experience using the Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol and Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC). She is passionate about working with families, and believes that true progress is made when the whole family is a member of the team.
Jill lives in Oradell with her husband and two amazing daughters. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, swimming, and spending time with her family!
Rachel Zabelka, M.,S., CCC-SLP
Rachel earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders from William Paterson University of New Jersey. She is licensed to practice speech language pathology in the state of New Jersey and has been certified by the American Speech and Hearing Association. Rachel holds a Speech Language Specialist certificate and works in the public school system with grades pre-k through eight. She also has experience providing services to children in the NJ Early Intervention system. Additionally, Rachel has experience assessing and treating children and adults with expressive and receptive language disorders, speech sound disorders, fluency disorders, cognitive communication impairments, autism spectrum disorders, and degenerative conditions. She enjoys working in early childhood and preschool disabled programs and is passionate about empowering young children to become better communicators.
Michaela A. Medved. MA. TSSLD, CCC-SLP CLINSCD, PHD
Dr. Michaela A. Medved is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Yeshiva University’s Katz School Science and Health. She completed PhD at the Wurzweiler School of Social Work with a focus on child welfare and her clinical doctorate at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions with her research focus on swallowing disorders in individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. She is a bilingual Russian-English clinician, and has extensive training in evaluating and treating both the adult and pediatric populations with neurological and complex medical conditions and has experience working in a variety of settings including outpatient, private practice, acute care, NICU, and home-health. Dr. Medved has had the opportunity to train clinicians within the United States and internationally on the use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) and Surface Electromyography (sEMG) for dysphagia intervention.
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 in 2019, and her Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences – Speech Language Pathology from William Paterson University in 2022.
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, tethered oral tissues, 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.
Her interests include: yoga, hiking, and spending time with her husband and son.
Mahchid Namazi, PHD CCC-SLP
Mahchid is an ASHA certified pediatric and multilingual speech language pathologist with 27+ years of clinical experience in various settings. As a clinician, she has been influenced by mentors such as Dr. Barry Prizant, Dr. Amy Wetherby and Dr. Judith Johnston. She practices from a developmental model which is individualized to each person and considers their family and functional environments. Dr. Namazi also teaches, conducts research and other scholarly activity in multilingual and multicultural aspects of Developmental Language Disorder and Autism. She is a professor at a NJ University and teaches doctoral, masters and undergraduate courses in language development, developmental language disorder, bilingual language development, Autism, and research design.
Nancy Minunni M.A., CCC-SLP
Nancy is an ASHA certified NY and NJ licensed Speech Language Pathologist with 25+ years experience working with infants through young adults. Nancy received her B.S. degree from Queens College and Master’s degree from St. John’s University in 1996. She has worked in a variety of settings including schools, clinics, agencies and home based Early Intervention. She has experience and knowledge of teletherapy and in-person services working with individuals who hold a wide range of diagnoses including articulation delay/disorder, receptive/expressive language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, fluency, accent reduction, executive functioning disorders, feeding and voice disorders. Nancy supervises graduate student clinicians at William Paterson University specializing in, but not limited to, evaluation and treatment of Social skills, vocational, and life skill training. Nancy volunteers annually with “Night to Shine”; a prom night experience centered on God’s love, for people with special needs, as well as, at Young Life camp “Capernaum” which gives young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities the chance to grow in their faith through fun activities while building new friendships within a weekly club and/or camp setting.
Sherilyn Morse M.S., CCC-SLP
Sherilyn Morse earned her Master of Science from Boston University and Bachelor of Science from Seton Hall University. Sherilyn is licensed to practice in NJ and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA.
Sherilyn has experience across the lifespan and care continuum including hospitals, an intensive cognitive-communication rehabilitation program, skilled nursing facility, independent/assisted living, memory care, outpatient in the home, and schools. Her experience includes working with clients recovering after brain injury and cancer, and those with degenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s, primary progressive aphasia, dementia and ALS. This includes evaluation and treatment of aphasia and disorders of voice, swallowing, motor speech, and cognitive-communication. She has worked with children of all ages to improve communication and language skills, utilizing play-based therapy techniques, structured activities and mindfulness to support their goals.
Sherilyn is certified in Lee Silverman Voice Technique (LSVT). She has completed the Langmore FEES Course, and is certified in the McNeill Dysphagia Therapy Program (MDTP) through the Florida Dysphagia Institute. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.
Adi Magid M.S., CF-SLP, TSSLD-BE
After a long exciting career as an engineer, serving as a project manager in various telecommunication companies, Adi has decided to follow her true passion – a second career as a speech-language pathologist. In 2022 she graduated from NYU where she completed with clinical excellence a Master of Science in Communicative Sciences & Disorders with a Bilingual Expansion.
Adi is an English-Hebrew bilingual speech-language pathologist. She also holds a Teacher for Students with Speech & Language Disorders (TSSLD) certificate issued by the state of New York. Her areas of special interest include orofacial myology, pragmatic language skills such as social thinking, and gender-affirming voice treatment.
Alexa Beck M.S., CCC-SLP
Alexa received her Bachelor’s Degree from The University of Massachusetts- Amherst with a degree in Communication Disorders, and received her Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology from Seton Hall University. Alexa is a certified member of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA), is fully licensed in the state of New Jersey, and holds the Speech and Language Specialist certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education. Alexa has experience working with all populations; however, specializes in the 0-21 population. She has extensive experience in the public school setting, private practice realm, and home health setting. Alexa has evaluated and treated early intervention clients, individuals with expressive-receptive language delays, articulation disorders, AAC individuals, TBIs, voice disorders, phonological processes, pragmatic disorders, and more. In previous settings, Alexa has worked in sensory gyms with Occupational and Physical Therapists, and loves to incorporate sensory and movement into her speech sessions! Alexa is PROMPT level one trained and is currently in the process of receiving an Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Certification from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Meg Goldberg, M.S., CCC-SLP
Meg Goldberg has been a licensed speech-language pathologist for over 25 years. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Communications. Meg has two Masters degrees from Hunter College, in Education and in Speech-Language Pathology. Meg taught briefly at the Horace Mann School before getting her second masters degree. She did internships at the Hospital for Joint Diseases and Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC. She began her career as a speech-language pathologist at Bellevue Hospital and the Hospital for Special Surgery, both in Manhattan, working there for 5 years before moving to New Jersey to open her private practice in 1998.
Meg has treated all forms of speech and language disorders, but has a particular interest in working with children on the autism spectrum. She is PROMPT I & II certified, and is also licensed as a Teacher of Speech and Hearing Handicapped.
Meg is married and has 4 children, a dog and 3 cats.
Kristin McFadden M.S., CCC-SLP
Kristin is a Speech-Language Pathologist who holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association (ASHA). Kristin received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology from Towson University and Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology from New York Medical College. Kristin’s experience includes working at a pediatric private practice. She has experience treating speech sound disorders, phonological disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, childhood apraxia of speech, and augmentative and alternative communication. Kristin also has experience working in the public schools with students ranging in age from 3-10. She administered speech-language evaluations using a wide variety of standardized tests and informal measures. Kristin enjoys working with children of all ages and disabilities.
Kaci Swift M.S., CCC-SLP
Kaci is a New Jersey and Pennsylvania licensed speech-language pathologist who holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association (ASHA). She also holds a certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education as a Speech Language Specialist. Kaci received her Bachelor of Science degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from West Chester University and her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Salus University.
Kaci currently works full-time in a public school district in Mercer County, where she works with students ranging from preschool through sixth grade with a variety of communication disorders. She also has experience in early intervention, preschool programs, pediatric private practice, and outpatient centers. She has provided intervention services for individuals ranging from birth to 21 years old, treating speech sound disorders, phonological disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, childhood apraxia of speech, and augmentative and alternative communication. She has a vast knowledge of Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices. Kaci specifically enjoys working with children of all age ranges who have special needs.
Jordyn Medina M.A., CCC-SLP
Jordyn is really excited to be welcomed into the Speech Therapy Plus family. She has 11 years of experience as a pediatric speech-language pathologist in a variety of settings. Jordyn received her Bachelor of Arts degree and her Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Kean University. Jordyn has experience working with a variety of diagnoses and has a passion for early language development, augmentative alternative communication (AAC) and gestalt language therapy. Jordyn received training for Gestalt Language Therapy through Meaningful Speech.
Jordyn is a compassionate neurodiversity affirming therapist who uses child-led and strength focused therapy in order to help the children she works with feel safe, supported, and ready to thrive. She strives to work closely together with the child and their family in order to support the child in their unique communication journey. Outside of therapy, Jordyn enjoys spending time with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and friends.
Nicole Sargenti M.S., CCC-SLP
Amanda Puglise M.S., CCC-SLP
Tariq Bhatti M.A., CF-SLP
Kinga Salabaj M.S., CF-SLP
Kinga Salabaj graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from The Pennsylvania State University. She continued to complete her graduate program at Northwestern University, where she received her Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Learning. Kinga is currently completing her clinical fellowship and has a background of working with both children and adults in schools and private practices. She has experience assessing and treating children with articulation/phonology disorders, language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, auditory processing disorders, and childhood apraxia of speech, among other disorders. Kinga also has experience assessing and treating adults with language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, central auditory processing disorder as well as culturally and linguistically diverse clientele.
Barbara Schmidt M.S., OTR/L
Barbara received her Master of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy in 1997 from Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, graduating with distinction. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication from the State University of NY at Buffalo. Barbara is a registered member of the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT). She is licensed in the states of New York and New Jersey and holds a School Occupational Therapist Certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education. She is also a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Barbara has over 20 years of experience as an Occupational Therapist and has worked with both adult and pediatric populations. She has worked in school-based settings for over 19 years, with students ranging in age from 3 through 21. She has provided Occupational Therapy intervention in specialized schools to address fine and gross motor, visual motor, perceptual motor, neurodevelopmental, motor planning, handwriting, and sensory processing deficits that interfere with students’ functional classroom skills. She has worked with students with various diagnoses including developmental delay, Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down’s Syndrome, and Chromosomal disorders.
Maryelizabeth A. Bischak, MS, OTR/L
Marybeth graduated from Tufts University – Boston School of Occupational Therapy with a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy. She is a registered member of the National Board for Certification In Occupational Therapy, Inc. She is also member of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). She is licensed in the state of New Jersey and also holds a School Occupational Therapist certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education.
Marybeth’s experience includes working in both public schools and early intervention. She has worked to address learning, sensory processing, motor planning, gross motor, fine motor, visual motor, handwriting, and visual perceptual deficits in children with a variety of diagnosis including Autism, Down Syndrome, Developmental Delay, Sensory Processing Disorder, and Cerebral Palsy. She has training in the Handwriting Without Tears program as well as Radiant Child Yoga.
Sinead O'Brian OTD, OTR/L
Sinead graduated from Western New England University with her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy in 2022. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Scranton in 2019 focusing on community health education and health administration. Sinead has worked in a multitude of settings with varying populations including outpatient pediatric clinics, early intervention, school based therapy, and hand therapy. She has worked with a variety of diagnoses such Down Syndrome, Autism, Prader Willi Syndrome, AMPS, and Sensory Processing Disorder. Sinead has experience addressing challenges in sensory processing, fine motor skills, visual motor and perceptual skills, developmental delays, self-care, and life skills. Sinead conducted and presented academic research focusing on implementing self-regulation strategies for students with Autism. Sinead has furthered her education to receive certifications and training with SOS Approach to Feeding, STAR Institute for Sensory Processing, Learning without Tears, and Harkla: Primitive Reflexes Expert Level.
Sinead is a compassionate therapist who is passionate about making therapy fun and play-based and while focusing on the child’s strengths and skill sets. She is dedicated to learning and growing to provide best practice and the most up-to-date interventions to help each child reach their fullest potential.
Maggie Brown MS, OTR/L
Maggie Brown received her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy in 2021 from Dominican University, Orangeburg, NY. She received the Dominican Spirit Award for demonstrating leadership, honor, and empathy. Maggie also holds the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts from William Paterson University. She is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and a registered member of the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT). Maggie is licensed in both New Jersey and New York state.
Before attaining her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Maggie worked with the pediatric population for fifteen years. She worked as a teacher’s assistant for the Valley Program Demarest School District. While working for the Valley Program, she worked with children from pre-K to fifth grade who had autism and other developmental disabilities. She has extensive training in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). Maggie became the lead teacher’s assistant, allowing her to collaborate with the teachers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and physical therapists. Maggie established measurable goals for students, monitored/tracked each child’s progress, and shared results with other team members and parents.
Maggie also worked as a Developmental Interventionist for an early intervention program in New Jersey, collaborating with parents and caregivers to best aid each child in reaching their potential. She has guided parents and caregivers in behavioral management and implemented occupational therapy techniques. She also provided occupational therapy services for a charter school in New Jersey and helped Spanish-speaking families better understand their children’s treatment plans. Maggie loves working with children and their families to better aid them throughout their journey.
Vidya Vidyasagarrajan M.A., OTR/L
Vidya earned her Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Saveetha University in India in 2005 and later completed her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at NYU in 2017. She holds registration with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT), and is a licensed practitioner in the state of New Jersey. Additionally, she possesses a School Occupational Therapist Certificate issued by the New Jersey Department of Education.
With extensive experience in both private and public-school settings, Vidya has worked extensively with children having various disabilities. Her expertise encompasses addressing challenges related to learning, sensory processing, motor planning, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, visual motor integration, handwriting, and visual perceptual abilities. She has successfully aided children diagnosed with conditions including Autism, Down Syndrome, Developmental Delay, and Sensory Processing Disorder.
She believes in engaging the child at their level to foster growth and skill development through making therapy fun and play based. She focuses on identifying the child’s strengths and skills as she believes children’s potential derives from their strengths, and not defined by their diagnoses. This approach paves the way for creating an individualized plan, fostering collaborative efforts with parents and professionals as a team, ultimately ensuring the finest possible assistance for each child’s developmental journey.
Rachel Olson M.S., OTR/L
Rachel graduated from Rutgers University with her Bachelors in Exercise Science. She then continued her education at Kean University where she received her Masters in Occupational Therapy. She is a registered member of the National Board for Certification In Occupational Therapy, Inc. She is licensed in the state of New Jersey and also holds a School Occupational Therapist certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education.
Rachel’s pediatric experience includes working in public schools, private practice, and early intervention. She frequently works with populations that include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Developmental Delay, Sensory Processing Disorder, Genetic Disorders, and Cerebral Palsy. When working with children she utilizes a holistic, neuro-developmental approach. When treating a child, she prioritizes the child and their family’s personal factors, environment, and meaningful occupations to truly understand how to best assist them. Her treatment approach also includes identifying missing links in development and providing them with the necessary therapy to acquire those foundational skills. By utilizing sensory processing, reflex integration, systems functioning, and therapeutic use-of-self the child will be able to flourish and perform at their highest potential. It is her passion to build loving and caring relationships that ensure trust so these great successes can be achieved.
Catherine (Cat) Ishimasa, MOTR/L
Catherine graduated from West Virginia University in the School of Medicine for Occupational Therapy with a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy. She is a registered member of the National Board for Certification In Occupational Therapy, Inc. and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). She is a licensed practitioner in the state of New Jersey as an Occupational Therapist.
Catherine’s experience includes working in both geriatric and pediatric settings, with a Level II Fieldwork at the WVU Medicine Neurodevelopment Center (NDC) and career experience in dementia care. She has worked closely on a team with Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) students and specialists, as well as physical and speech therapists in the NDC setting to help children across all ages and diagnoses reach their full potential. She has additional working experience in the daycare setting for children with an ASD diagnosis.
She has training in the Handwriting Without Tears and SOS Feeding interventions, as well as working to address learning, sensory processing, motor planning, gross motor, fine motor, visual motor, handwriting, and visual perceptual deficits in children with a variety of diagnoses including Genetic Disorders, Autism, Down Syndrome, Developmental Delay, Sensory Processing Disorder, and Cerebral Palsy. She is passionate about utilizing a child-centered approach to better understand the child’s world and to be an active partner in the parent’s and child’s journey to success.
Kara Grifonetti M.S., OTR/L
Kara received her Bachelors of Science from The University of Scranton in 2019 and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from The University of Scranton in 2020. She is a registered member of the National board of Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT). Kara is licensed in the states of New Jersey and New York and holds a School Occupational Therapy Certificate from New Jersey Department of Education.
Kara’s pediatric experience includes working in private and public schools and home care. She has worked with children ages 3-21 to address deficits in areas including sensory processing, fine motor, visual motor, visual perceptual skills, sensory processing, ADLs, and handwriting. She has experience with various diagnoses including ASD, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Delays, and Genetic Disorders.
She believes in meeting a child where they are at while making therapy fun and engaging in order to foster growth and development. Kara believes that each child has a unique set of skills that when tapped into can help the child reach their fullest potential. Kara believes in using a holistic and collaborative approach when working with children and their families in order to help the child be as independent and successful as possible.
Nicole Weick MS, OTR/L
Nicole received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. She has been working with children for over 5 years in a variety of settings; including early intervention, public and private schools, and outpatient pediatric settings. Nicole has treated a wide range of motor, visual, cognitive, and sensory deficits. She is passionate about learning and growing to provide best practice and most up-to-date interventions to help each child reach their fullest potential. Nicole has received specialized continuing education training in “Star” sensory processing, DIR Floortime, primitive reflex integration, Tethered Oral Tissues, as well as executive functioning and handwriting. She is certified in SOS Feeding (Sequential Oral Sensory Feeding) therapy technique and Infant Massage Therapy. Nicole is kind-hearted and loves making therapy fun and play-based, and working with each child’s strengths and skills to make a difference in their lives as well as the lives of their families.