Navigating Childhood Speech Therapy: Jackie Anderson's Journey
We just want to make sure that if our original plan is not working for them that day, that we got to find something else that will and that will keep their attention and, you know, still allow us to have a productive session while they feel comfortable and as adjusted as possible during the time that they're working on a skill that's hard for them, you know.
Ever wondered how speech therapy for kids has adapted during these challenging times? In this episode of 'The Lighter Side with Jay', speech-language pathologist Jackie Anderson shares her experiences and insights. Owner of Ascend Speech Therapy, LLC, Jackie specializes in diagnosing and treating speech-language disorders in young children. Her journey, which began in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), has led her to focus on children with autism, helping them find their voice and thrive in their unique ways.
Jackie’s optimism shines through as she talks about working with children during the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility in therapy, often needing to pivot from the original plan to keep kids engaged. Her refreshing approach provides a glimpse into the day-to-day challenges and triumphs of her profession. The conversation also dives into her personal life, touching on her pregnancy during the pandemic and the unexpected hurdles she faced, like hospital checkpoints and prenatal appointment stress.
But it's not all serious talk. Jay and Jackie lighten the mood with their shared love for true crime podcasts, showing that even healthcare professionals need a break from their demanding roles. This episode is a blend of professional insights and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for parents, healthcare workers, or anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes of speech therapy.
Join Jay and Jackie as they explore the highs and lows of working with children, especially those with autism, during these unprecedented times. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the resilience required in healthcare and maybe even a new podcast recommendation for your next binge-listen.