I completed a BA (Hons) in Linguistics (First Class) at the University of Hertfordshire in 1993, and subsequently worked in publishing for several years as Company Manager of a children’s publishing company. Throughout that time, I developed my interest in language and communication difficulties, and after returning to Newcastle, completed an MSc in Language Pathology (Distinction) at Newcastle University. I am registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC) and am a member of ASLTIP, the Association for Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice, and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists. I am also a member of a number of regional and national special interest groups relating to language and communication disorders, and participate in regular postgraduate training to ensure that I offer my clients the most up to date practice.
Since qualifying, I have worked as a speech and language therapist in a variety of settings including NHS hospitals, clinics, nurseries, schools and clients’ homes, for the NHS and as an independent therapist. I have also been involved in national research projects investigating voice outcomes for head and neck cancer patients. I write regularly for a number of magazines and publications about speech and language therapy issues.
I believe wholeheartedly that the ability to listen with understanding and express ourselves authentically to others, whether this be through the medium of spoken or written language, are amongst the most important abilities we humans have, fundamental to our wellbeing and a key part of fulfilling our potential. My approach is built around understanding your communication needs, and providing carefully structured therapy that aims to help you identify and build upon your existing strengths. These become the building blocks to help you develop new approaches and skills in your communication and help you achieve your language goals.
