What do you do?

In my role as LSVT LOUD and LSVT LOUD for KIDS Faculty, I work with my team in training speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in understanding and implementing the LSVT LOUD treatment protocols with their adult and pediatric clients.  This includes certification course training as well as ongoing clinical training through in-person and online webinars and office hours/clinical labs.  It also includes being available for clinicians by email and phone to problem-solve ways in which they can best manage the specific clients they work with. I am honored to be a part of LSVT Global’s innovative think tank, an enthusiastic, scholarly, and forward-thinking group, always seeking to assure optimal care for patients, as well as best quality in training and conducting high-quality research.

How long have you been with LSVT Global?

I was originally certified as an LSVT LOUD certified clinician in 1999, and I have been an LSVT LOUD faculty instructor and clinical expert for LSVT Global since 2010. I joined the LSVT LOUD for KIDS team in 2021, when it was launched!

What is your favorite part of your job?

That is a very difficult question to answer, because I love every aspect of my job with LSVT Global! I love working with a team of the most intelligent, vivacious, caring rehabilitation specialists in the world; I love training SLPs in the United States and internationally; and I love assisting patients and families to help them receive the high-quality support they need and deserve!

Tell us a little about yourself:

Below are some of my favorite people and why I split my time between the coasts to be with them in New York and California.

I am the Founder and Executive Director of Open Lines Speech and Communication, a practice I founded on the principle that it is never too late to improve one’s speech-language and cognitive abilities. My personal experience growing up with a parent who suffered a combat-wounded Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) while serving in Vietnam drove me to master the art and science of neurological rehabilitation.

I received my doctoral degree in Biobehavioral Sciences from Columbia University, where I conducted research in the neural underpinnings of voice and speech using brain imaging modalities and worked with Dr. Lorraine Ramig, who pioneered the LSVT therapies.  I have held research scientist positions at NYU Langone School of Medicine and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and currently hold a faculty instructor position at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.  I am an adjunct professor with NYU, Columbia University, Teachers College, and San Francisco State University where I teach graduate coursework in the areas of neurogenic communication disorders that result from acquired (e.g., stroke) and progressive neurological disease (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, cognitive changes).

I am proud to be an Executive Board Member of the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences, an association that supports practitioners who serve individuals with neurologic communication disorders by providing education, training, and certification opportunities to promote high quality professional service.  I also act as Vice President and Treasurer of the Parkinson’s Unity Walk, a prestigious organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds for research to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease.

In my practice and my teaching/training, I employ a holistic approach to treatment which blends scientific rigor with deep listening and empathic inquiry.  I help clients cope with the day-to-day realities of communication challenges so they can confidently move forward and fully participate in their life!

Favorite quote, food, or pastime:

Sushi, matzoh ball soup, brussel sprouts, and ice cream! (not at the same time)