Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist

      Kathie was introduced to the field of speech language pathology due to a family history of speech-language needs.  Her older sister attended articulation therapy in early grade school to correct “w” for “r” substitutions.  Later, her youngest brother was born with a cleft palate (a “hole” in the top of his mouth) and required corrective surgeries and speech therapy.  Through these experiences with her family, Kathie gained direct knowledge of the challenges and rewards of serving young children and their families.     

     Kathie attended West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology.  She completed this program with honors, graduating Summa Cum Laude in May of 1996.  She was recognized as one of six outstanding graduating students and was a chosen to speak at the commencement exercises for the College of Human Resources and Education at WVU.  Kathie went on to attend James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA.  She completed requirements for a Master of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders one semester early, graduating from JMU in December of 1997. 

     Kathie completed her fellowship year working with a variety of populations ranging from infants to geriatrics.  Her interest in serving young children continued throughout the course of her fellowship.  Upon completing her fellowship requirements in April 1999, Kathie turned her professional focus to young children.  She has worked with children from birth through school-age in early intervention programs, head start programs, and the public schools.  She has served children with communication needs related to: developmental delays, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, chronic ear infections, fragile X syndrome, oral motor dysfunction, oral sensory dysfunction, feeding difficulties, reduced respiratory/phonatory support, autism, head trauma, cerebrovascular accidents, and cleft palate.  She also has provided services for children in high risk situations such as: low birthweight, multiple births, and failure-to-thrive.  Kathie enjoys her work and serves children and their families with great enthusiasm, dedication, and committment.  

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