THERAPISTS

Our Mission

Located in Northern New Jersey, Montclair Speech Therapy is a family friendly practice that provides services for infants, children, adults and seniors. We stay current in our evolving industry and use treatment approaches that support evidence-based practices, ensuring patients achieve function, strength and independence.

Founded by licensed SLP Lori Caplan‐Colon, is to provide inclusive, research-based therapies that serves the unique needs of individuals across the lifespan. We offer creativity, support, applied learning and skill, camaraderie and compassion as we meet our clients at the start of the therapeutic process. Through custom care plans, we meet each patient’s needs uniquely, supporting and enhancing the lives of parents, children and adults facing overwhelming challenges. Together, we help them reach their goals and celebrate all successes along the way.

Montclair Speech Therapy employs a wide variety of research-based techniques. These are tailored to meet the needs of each client and their family. This multi-dimensional, patient-centered approach includes play therapy, facilitative language environments and family centered training. Treatment goals focus on improving both the client’s skills and abilities, as well as their confidence. We aim to make everyday interactions and experiences stress-free and pleasurable.

About Lori Caplan-Colon, M.S. CCC-SLP, CLC

Lori Caplan-Colon is a NJ state licensed, ASHA certified Speech-language pathologist with over 18 years of clinical experience. She obtained her BS in Speech Pathology/Audiology from Ithaca College, NY. She earned her Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology at the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professionals.

Lori Caplan-Colon traveled throughout New Jersey attending to her clients’ and their family’s needs at the onset of her practice. She began a private, home practice as her family grew. Having outgrown her home, the first professional office space opened in a historic bank, Vault 491, in downtown Montclair, 2015. A second, fully staffed Caldwell office followed three years later. Clients include individuals of all ages and ability levels.

Lori is committed to ongoing development and proficiency in the skills of both her staff as well as herself. She has extensive background in areas of oral motor and feeding dysfunction. She is trained to use PROMPT (Prompts for restructuring oral/muscular Phonetic Targets.) She is trained through Level 3 in Talk Tools and is proficient in SOS; The Sequential Oral Sensory Feeding Approach. Lori Caplan-Colon enjoys success working in the area of tethered oral tissues and in working with picky eaters. She is a two-time ACE (Award for Continuing Education) Award recipient. She has completed a yearlong program at New York Medical College, achieving an advanced degree in Pediatric Dysphagia.

This fall she will embark on a new journey in IAOM, which is the tract to Orofacial Myology Certification. The international association of orofacial myology defines orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDS) as atypical, adaptive patterns that emerge in the absence of normalized patterns within the orofacial complex. The regular presence of these adaptive movements can often result in a variety of disturbances.” OMD’s can include feeding challenges including atypical chewing and swallowing patterns, non-nutritive oral habits (thumb-sucking, pacifier-sucking, nail biting, tongue sucking), atypical oral resting postures and mouth breathing (open mouth posture). SLP’s with advanced training in OMDs can treat these disorders.

Lori Caplan-Colon has reviewed product proposals for Plural publishing. She completed the one year certification program in Applied Behavioral Analysis at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is currently working towards completion of her 2,000 hours to sit for the board exam to achieve her board certified behavioral analyst (BCBA) credential. She is enjoying using the principles of applied behavior analysis in addition to her strong foundation in pediatric feeding disorders.

Lori recently deepened her understanding of the breastfeeding dyad via coursework through the Healthy Children’s Project and obtained The Certified Lactation Counselor® (CLC) certification, which is the premier National Certification in Lactation Management in the United States. As a CLC holder, Lori has demonstrated competence in the lactation skills, knowledge and attitudes that are essential to helping women. CLC certification means that a person has received training and competency verification in breastfeeding and human lactation support, including assessing the latching and feeding process, providing corrective interventions, counseling mothers, understanding and applying knowledge of milk production including in special circumstances and other commonly encountered situations.

Lori Caplan-Colon’s Memberships & Awards

PROMPT Trained

Beckman Oral Motor Trained 2018

Talk Tools Level 3 2018

ACE Award – 4 Time Award Winner

The award for continuing education (ACE) is a formal recognition of professionals who have demonstrated their commitment to lifelong learning by earning over 70 contact hours in a 36-month period.

2015 Autism Speaks Fundraiser

Autism Speaks Silver Supporter at New York City Walk.

Meet Our Team of Speech Language Pathologists and Occupational Therapists

Alexa Sibayan, M.S. CCC-SLP

Alexa is a Speech-Language Pathologist, licensed in the state of New Jersey and a certified member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA). She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and completed prerequisite courses in Speech-Language Pathology at Seton Hall University in 2015. Alexa attended The Katz School at Yeshiva University and received her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2019.

Alexa found her passion for speech pathology in the medical setting after seeing her grandfather receive speech therapy following his Parkinson’s diagnosis. During her clinical experiences, she worked with pediatric and geriatric populations at the following private practices: New York Neurogenic and Pediatric and Adult Rehabilitation Center. She evaluated and treated various cases of receptive-expressive language disorders, articulation, AAC, pragmatics/social skills, stuttering and fluency disorders, aphasia, cognitive-communication deficits, dysphagia, and dysarthria.

In her post graduate work, Alexa spent her clinical fellowship year and the following 3 years at skilled nursing facilities providing services to the adult/geriatic population. She has experience assessing and treating dysphagia, cognitive-communication deficits, aphasia, motor speech deficits and voice related to a variety of medical conditions. These conditions included stroke, brain injuries, head & neck cancer, dementia and extensive training in tracheostomy/ventilator management. She also provided clinical supervision and mentorship to graduate students. Most recently, she provides services on an as needed basis in sub-acute/long term care at JFK Hartwyck at Oak Tree and acute care at Mountainside Medical Center.

Alexa enjoys working with others to best serve her patients, while interacting closely with their families. She believes in providing functional therapy to carryover at home and within the community. Alexa is eager to continue her career development at Montclair Speech Therapy!

Alyssa Golden, M.S. CCC-SLP
Clinical Supervisor of Speech Language Pathology

Alyssa is a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP), licensed in the state of NJ and a certified member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA). During her 10 years working as an SLP in private and public schools she has developed a specialty for working with non-speaking children with Autism, individuals with impaired speech intelligibility and individuals with complex communication needs.

She has obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Science from The George Washington University (2009), a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (2011) and a Master’s of Science in Communication Disorders from The William Paterson University (2013), as well as a Graduate Certificate in Assistive Technology from The Bowling Green State University (2021).

Alyssa is DIR:Floortime Trained, ABA Trained, PROMPT Trained, and speaks conversational Spanish. She has been trained to complete Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) Evaluations and to incorporate AAC into high-quality habilitative and rehabilitative speech and language therapy. She has extensive knowledge of a broad range of AAC Devices (low and high-tech) and communication applications including Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, CoughDrop, and TDSnap. Alyssa’s approach to therapy is play-based and person and family-centered. It focuses on achieving communicative competence while prioritizing personal autonomy, agency and fostering a warm community of multimodal communicators.

Amanda Griglack, M.A. CCC-SLP

Amanda is a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and a licensed Speech Language Pathologist in the state of New Jersey. She graduated from Stockton University with her undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, while minoring in Spanish. She completed her master’s degree in speech language pathology at Montclair State University.

Amanda’s former clinical experiences include working with underprivileged youth, providing state funded therapy at an outpatient facility, as well as in inpatient acute care and outpatient rehabilitation care for adults with dysphagia, expressive/receptive language disorders, fluency disorders, motor speech disorders, and voice disorders. Amanda’s primary interests include working with patients with aphasia, as well as working on expressive/receptive language with children. Language treatment is incredibly functional, and Amanda believes that the best therapy given is functional therapy involving daily activities of living. Amanda is passionate about providing evidence-based practice in all aspects of speech therapy. Amanda is trained in Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP), kinesiotaping for swallowing disorders, and in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT).

Amanda values the importance of building rapport with patients, and building long lasting, meaningful relationships with those she treats. In her free time, Amanda enjoys hiking, cooking, drawing, and playing with her mini-Australian shepherd, Chico.

Brielle Stern, M.S. CF-SLP

Brielle is a licensed Clinical Fellow in the state of New Jersey, bringing her expertise and dedication to the field of Speech-Language Pathology. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at Brooklyn College in 2021 and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at The Katz School at Yeshiva University in 2023, solidifying her comprehensive knowledge and skills in the discipline.

Throughout her academic journey, Brielle has actively engaged in clinical experiences, working closely with both children and adults with various communication disorders. She has gained invaluable hands-on experience in addressing language delays, articulation difficulties, voice disorders, receptive and expressive language challenges, dysphagia, cognitive impairments, and feeding disorders.

Brielle employs specialized techniques and interventions tailored to the unique needs of each client. Her diverse exposure to different client populations has enhanced her ability to adapt and tailor therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each individual. Brielle firmly believes in the power of collaboration and aims to create a strong therapeutic alliance with her patients and their caregivers.

Camila Fermin, M.S. CF-SLP

Camila is a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed Clinical Fellow in the state of New Jersey. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Pittsburgh in 2020 and a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology at Rutgers University in 2023.

Camila’s former clinical experiences include working with underprivileged youth in her graduate school’s clinic, in a public school working with children with disabilities, and inpatient acute rehabilitation care for adults with dysphagia, expressive/receptive language disorders, motor speech disorders, and voice disorders.

Camila’s primary interests include working with adults diagnosed with aphasia, cognitive disorders, as well as working on expressive/receptive and pragmatic language with children in both English and Spanish. She is passionate about differentiating between dialectal differences, and language/speech disorders. Camila is trained in Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP).

Catherine Solimini, M.S. CCC-SLP

Catherine is a Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Fellow licensed in the state of New Jersey. Catherine obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary/Special Education from Seton Hall University in 2020 and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Seton Hall University in 2022.

During her clinical experiences and graduate studies, Catherine has had the opportunity to evaluate and treat patients across the lifespan in private practice, acute rehabilitation, and school settings. In private practice and school settings, she provided evaluation and treatment for a variety of caseloads including expressive/receptive language, articulation, pragmatics/social skills, fluency, apraxia of speech, auditory processing, phonological disorders, AAC, and feeding/swallowing disorders. Catherine also has experience working with medically fragile children with various developmental disabilities. In an acute rehabilitation setting, Catherine has evaluated and treated adults/geriatrics in speech and language, swallowing, cognitive communication, motor speech, and voice. Throughout her clinical experiences, she has had the opportunity to collaborate closely with physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, aides, and classroom teachers to provide exceptional services to clients.

Catherine is passionate about providing treatment that is multi-sensory, individualized, and meaningful while implementing evidence-based practice to provide optimal services to all clients.

Christie Arnhols, M.S. CCC-SLP

Christie Arnhols is a NJ and NY state licensed, ASHA certified speech language pathologist. She attended Ithaca college in NY for her undergrad and received a BS in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology. Christie then attended Montclair State University in NJ and received her MA in Communication Science Disorders in 2013.

Christie has experience with a variety of diagnoses across the lifespan in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Christie has interest in the areas of feeding/dysphagia, fluency, and early childhood language development. She believes that parent and family education are key throughout the therapy process. Additionally, she believes that co-treatment and collaboration within and across disciplines is beneficial for the client, family, and therapists. Christie holds certifications for SOS feeding, SOFFI method, VitalStim, MBSiMP, PECS, OPT-Level 1 and LSVT. Christie has received the ASHA ACE award twice.

Elisabeth Gifford, OTR/L

Elisabeth Gifford is an occupational therapist licensed and registered in New Jersey and New York. She attended Seton Hall University’s dual degree occupational therapy program, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in social and behavioral sciences and a master’s degree in occupational therapy.

Throughout her clinical experiences, she worked in acute care hospitals, outpatient therapy clinics for children and adults, teletherapy, day programs, and public schools with elementary, middle, and high school students. She had the opportunity to develop and present multiple in-services on topics including the role of occupational therapy in social and emotional learning and the impact of sleep on occupational performance.

Elisabeth has treated children with many diagnoses, including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, cognitive impairments, developmental coordination disorder, and more. She also has prior non-clinical experience working with children in summer camps, adaptive dance programs, and after school tutoring and enrichment programs.

Elisabeth loves creating individualized, playful therapy sessions that are motivating for every child. She believes it is important to collaborate with the child, caregivers, and other team members to best achieve each child’s goals. In her free time, Elisabeth enjoys exercise and yoga, reading, community service, and watching movies.

Francesca Ilardi, M.A. CCC-SLP
Director of Business Operations

Francesca is a Speech-Language Pathologist licensed in the state of NJ and a certified member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Linguistics from Rutgers University in 2015 and her Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology at Montclair State University in 2018. Francesca is an English-Italian bilingual speaker.

Throughout her clinical experience, Francesca has evaluated and treated a variety of speech and language disorders across the lifespan. She has worked with children including but not limited to expressive and receptive language delays, speech sound disorders, executive functioning disorders, ADHD, and ASD. She has also served adult and geriatric clients with communication difficulties, voice disorders, and swallowing deficits secondary to stroke, brain injury, dementia, and head and neck cancer.

It was in Francesca’s post-graduate experience that she became most passionate working with the pediatric population, helping little ones express themselves and improve speech clarity. During her time at MST, Francesca has developed a special interest in pediatric feeding and oral motor-based speech disorders. Francesca is honing her skills in the area of oral-motor dysfunction for speech and feeding and expanding the diets of toddlers and children with oral-motor and/or sensory feeding challenges. She is trained in PROMPT, Talk Tools (Level 1), and the Sequential-Oral-Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding. Francesca uses a playful, multi-sensory approach to help children develop a positive relationship with food and offers parent training to improve family mealtime and set up child and parent for success at home.

Francesca values the importance of a fun, interactive environment to promote language, learning and diet expansion. She aligns her treatment style to fit the needs of the client and family. Francesca’s interests include running, hiking, cooking, and, most of all, having fun with her two nephews.

Hannah Velez

Hannah M. Velez is currently enrolled at New Jersey City University as a distinguished scholar recipient in the honors program working towards a degree in Psychology. She is passionate about developing and refining her skills to bring true value to her professional practice. Hannah is ready to step into the deeply rewarding work of seeing the world from a perspective that is not hers. She is passionate about continuing her learning and receiving hands-on experience with children to provide treatment that makes a difference in their lives.

Harmony Kingsley, M.A. CF-SLP

Harmony is a licensed clinical fellow in the state of New Jersey. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and English from The College of New Jersey in 2018, and a Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology from Montclair State University in 2023.

Harmony has a background of working with both children and adults in schools and private practice, and has developed a passion for working with people across the lifespan. During her graduate studies, Harmony gained experience with clients working on articulation, phonology, fluency, literacy, pragmatics, motor speech and voice. She also has experience working with children with ASD, ADHD, ODD, selective mutism, and multiple disabilities.

Harmony greatly values building strong connections, working collaboratively, engaging in client-centered care, and embracing a growth mindset. Her personal interests include reading, hiking, and spending time with her cat!

Heather Primus, M.A.
Associate Behavior Analyst

Heather Primus is a nationally certified Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst. She graduated from Florida Institute of Technology with a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis Practice. Heather has had the pleasure of providing supervision for individuals of various ages ranging from toddlers to seniors in homes, day programs, schools and communities since 2017.

Heather has experience working with a variety of diagnoses, including Autism, ADD, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, PDD-NOS, severe behavior challenges, skill deficits, language delays, traumatic brain injury, developmental delays and more.

She has a passion for creating behavior analytic training for behavior technicians and parents to help individuals acquire skills that will give them access to positive reinforcement and provide independence.

Heather places a strong emphasis on pairing with positive reinforcement and creating learning environments that are fun and client led. Heather’s interests are travelling with her children and granddaughter, watching her daughter play basketball, trying new foods and identifying the science of ABA in everyday life.

Jackie Dowd, M.S. SLP

Jackie is a Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Fellow licensed in New Jersey. Jackie earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Penn State University in 2021 and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Seton Hall University in 2023. She believes in conducting therapy that is both functional and evidence-based, and that is individualized to each patient.

Throughout her graduate clinical experience, Jackie worked with children with many diagnoses, such as autism, auditory processing disorder, fluency disorders, and childhood apraxia of speech. She has also served adult and geriatric clients with voice disorders, swallowing deficits, and acquired communication disorders secondary to stroke, Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, dementia, and head and neck cancer. During her graduate studies, Jackie attended the National Speech-Language Pathology conference in Turku, Finland, where she developed knowledge of culturally based practices in areas such as acquired disorders, childhood disorders, eye-tracking, and interprofessional care. Jackie was also a part of the Voice Lab at Seton Hall University, exploring the perceptual judgment of accented voice and speech. Jackie is trained in Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP) and is a SPEAK OUT! Parkinson’s Project Provider.

James Hunter, M.A. CCC-SLP, SLS

James is a certified and licensed Speech Language Pathologist in New Jersey. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Pathology with a Minor in Deaf Studies at The College of New Jersey and a Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology at Kean University Nathan Weiss Graduate School. He proudly approaches his work with respect for the individuals he supports, their families, and their communities.

Throughout his career, James has supported pediatric clients with early language, articulation, phonology, fluency, receptive and expressive language, and feeding disorders, and adults with aphasia, progressive disorders, and cognitive disorders. He provides individual evaluations, diagnoses, and treatment for children and adults with speech, language, fluency, cognitive, feeding, and swallowing disorders. In addition, he participates in and facilitates interdisciplinary care with Occupational Therapists and Board Certified Behavior Analysts to best support the individualized, complex needs of his clients.

Jennifer Pallatta, M.A. CCC-SLP

Jennifer Pallatta is a NJ state licensed, ASHA certified speech language pathologist. She attended Seton Hall University in NJ for her undergrad and received a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences with a minor in Psychology. Jennifer then attended Iona University in NY and received her Master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Jennifer has taken additional course work and is specialized in Orofacial Myology.

Jennifer has experience working with individuals with a variety of speech and communication needs including receptive/expressive language, articulation, phonological disorders, and pragmatics. She also has training in oral motor skills. Throughout her career, Jennifer has collaborated with teams of professionals across multiple settings and has educated and supported families and caregivers. Jennifer is passionate about working with the pediatric population and their families, and loves to make speech therapy fun. She takes pride in building strong relationships with her clients.

Jocelynne Andrade, MS CCC-SLP

Jocelynne is a licensed speech-language pathologist in the state of New Jersey and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). In addition, she currently holds a Speech Language Specialist certification through the NJ Department of Education.

Jocelynne received her Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Seton Hall University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences at Stockton University.

During her graduate studies and clinical fellowship year (CFY), she solidified her passion for providing bilingual services and serving a culturally diverse population. She is passionate about communication in any and all modalities, acknowledging the idea of “culture and communication cannot be separated!” She is a Spanish-speaking clinician, who provides bilingual and monolingual services across the lifespan. She has experience working in private practice, skilled nursing facility, hospital-based subacute and acute care, and rehab outpatient services. Currently providing services for receptive and expressive language disorders, articulation, fluency, pragmatics, swallowing disorders, and cognitive-linguistic disorders.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, close friends, and Coco (her dog). She enjoys hot yoga, traveling, and trying new food places.

Jorge Orozco, RBT

Jorge Orozco is a Behavioral Technician who provides one-to-one ABA services to learners on the Autism Spectrum. He graduated HCCC in 2017 with an AA in Liberal Arts with a concentration in English.

Jorge began his child healthcare career in the early intervention sector, working alongside Occupational Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, Physical Therapists, and other clinicians before moving into the ABA sector. He has used this previous experience, paired with a compassion-filled approach, as a driving force fueling his commitment to each of his clients.

Jorge has experience working with learners with a variety of diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, ADHD, developmental delays, skill deficits, severe behavior challenges, and more, always under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts.

Jorge’s commitment to excellence, and his client’s progress over the years, has been a testament to both his abilities and dedication to the lives of each family he serves.

Meghan Masiulis, M.S. CCC-SLP

Meghan is a NJ state licensed and ASHA certified Speech-language pathologist with over 10 years of clinical experience. She graduated from Loyola University Maryland with a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology in 2010 and 2012, respectively.

Meghan has experience working with clients across the lifespan. She spent 6 years working in specialized schools for children with intensive communication and behavioral needs. During this time, Meghan gained extensive experience working with students with limited communication skills using Alternative Augmentative Communication (e.g., picture exchange, low tech communication boards, high tech communication devices). Meghan completed her clinical internship on the brain injury unit in Kernan Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Hospital and continued working with the adult population on an as needed basis in nursing homes in Maryland. She provided services in the areas of expressive and receptive language, cognition, voice, swallowing and pragmatics.

Most recently, Meghan has provided speech and language services in the general education setting in public schools in New Jersey. She worked with students pre-k to high school on expressive and receptive language, articulation, fluency, executive functioning and social skills.

Meghan has attended trainings on PROMPT (level 1), PECS and various communication devices (e.g., Vantage Lite Unity, LAMP). Meghan is dedicated to providing motivating and functional therapy sessions while promoting collaboration with providers and family members for carryover of skills into the home setting.

Monica R. Christian, M.S. CCC-SLP

Monica R. Christian, graduated summa cum laude from Syracuse University with her Bachelors’ of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and with her Masters’ of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Arizona.

Undergraduate and graduate research interests and theses projects included assessment of motor speech production with chronic trach/vent patients, voice hygiene, swallowing following radiation treatment in head and neck cancer patients, changes in cognition in Parkinson patients following deep brain stimulation, and neurological correlates for spontaneous language production using positron emission tomography (PET).

Monica is New Jersey licensed and certified Speech Language Pathologist, with over 10 years of experience in evaluation and treatment of children and adults presenting with speech, language, and cognitive disorders due to neurological, developmental, and acquired diagnoses in a variety of different settings including outpatient rehabilitation facilities, home care, early intervention, hospitals, skilled nursing/subacute facilities, and in private practice.

Monica has administrative and supervisory experience, working collaboratively with other licensed professionals and physicians to provide comprehensive care for patients and their families. She has also provided clinical support and supervision to clinical fellows and graduate students within community-based treatment centers and in on campus clinical settings.

Monica is a member of the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association with participation in special interest division, Neurogenic Communication Disorders. She is PROMPT, LSVT trained and Hanen certified.

Nicole Makowski, M.S. CCC-SLP
Clinical Supervisor of Speech Language Pathology

Nicole is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in the state of New Jersey.
She graduated cum laude from Towson University with her Bachelors’ of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Nicole completed her Master’s Degree in Communication Disorders at Stockton University in 2016. She is a certified member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA).

Throughout her undergraduate and graduate studies, Nicole has clinician experience working with both the pediatric and geriatric populations in the medical setting. Post graduate work, Nicole gained extensive experience working with the medically fragile pediatric population with a variety of speech, language, genetic, and swallowing disorders. She has worked in both the private practice and children’s hospital outpatient/inpatient settings. She has ample experience collaborating with the multidisciplinary team, such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, behaviorists, pediatricians, psychologists, and teachers.

Nicole is knowledgeable with a variety of AAC communication methods, including infant sign language, picture exchange systems, communication boards, and electronic voice output devices. She has attended continuing education courses to refine her knowledge regarding the Kaufman Method for children with apraxia, play based early intervention, fluency of speech, social skills curriculum, and behavioral/sensory feeding approaches.

Nicole is devoted to implement fun, multi-sensory therapeutic play-based intervention into each and every session to make a positive impact on her client’s everyday lives.

Nikki Perez, MOTR/L
Clinical Supervisor of Occupational Therapy

Nikki Perez is a Licensed and Registered Occupational Therapist in the state of New Jersey.
She attended Quinnipiac University in Connecticut where she received her Bachelor’s of Science degree in 2007 and went on to achieve her Masters of Occupational Therapy.

Nikki has worked in pediatrics for 13 years, employed primarily in outpatient hospital and private practice where she has collaborated with disciplines such as speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and behaviorists. She also has experience working in early intervention and in a school setting specifically designed for children with disabilities.

She has been trained in the Alert Program and certified in The Listening Program as well as a Fieldwork Educator collaborating with various universities. Nikki has attended continuing education courses to further her knowledge in relation to sensory-based modalities, Torticollis, physical agent modalities, and feeding difficulties.

Nikki has experience with a variety of diagnoses and conditions including, but not limited to Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, Down Syndrome, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, prematurity, visual impairments, neurological impairments, mental health disorders, and feeding difficulties.

Nikki’s fun, compassionate, and loving approach with children earned her the recognition of New Jersey’s Favorite Kids’ Doc in 2017 and 2018.

Paul Falgares, RBT

Paul Falgares is a Behavioral Technician who provides one to one assistance with students who are on the Autism Spectrum. Paul graduated from Montclair State University with a B.A in Fine Arts in 2012. In 2015, he began teaching as a substitute teacher in the districts of Montclair, Randolph, and Mount. Olive.

In 2017, he was hired to be a one-to-one paraprofessional for special needs students in Mount. Olive school district. He has received crisis intervention training and is certified in CPR. Paul hopes to a make a positive and meaningful difference in the lives of the families and community he serves.

Rachel Mastrangelo, COTA

Rachel Mastrangelo is a Licensed and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state of New Jersey.
She attended Stockton University where she received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Dance in 2019 and Associates in Applied Sciences in Occupational Therapy from Eastwick College in the Fall of 2021.

Throughout her educational endeavors, Rachel studied in different settings including outpatient rehabilitation facility, elementary school, and Simucase. Under the supervision of her educators, she has experience working with a variety of different diagnoses including traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, CVA, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder.

Rachel is most looking forward to collaborating with the children and caregivers using client-centered approaches with evidence-based practices to help the children reach their goals.

In Rachel’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her cat Lucy, journaling, and practicing meditation.

Rebecca Lotwich, M.A. CCC-SLP

Rebecca is a Speech-Language Pathologist licensed in the state of New Jersey. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics with a double minor in Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology and Cognitive Science at Montclair State University in 2017 and earned her Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Kean University in 2020.

Throughout her graduate studies, Rebecca has developed a strong passion for working with clients of all ages with communication disorders. Her clinical experiences include evaluating and treating clients in the clinic, school, and rehabilitation hospital settings. She has worked closely with clients with autism spectrum disorder, speech and language delays, aphasia, dysarthria, apraxia, and cognitive-communication disorders.

During her time in the school setting, she gained experience treating preschool children with autism spectrum disorder and receptive/expressive language delays. As a clinician in an outpatient rehabilitation center, she acquired the clinical skills to evaluate and treat adult and geriatric clients with communication deficits secondary to acquired brain injuries and developmental disorders. Within both settings, Rebecca was part of a multidisciplinary team and gained experience working collaboratively with teachers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists.

Rebecca values the importance of implementing fun, engaging, and motivating treatment sessions that are tailored to her client’s needs. Her clinical expertise is rooted in evidence-based practice and patient-centered treatment services to ensure the highest quality care for every client she serves.

Rebecca Viebrock, M.S. CCC-SLP

Rebecca Viebrock is a Speech Language Pathologist licensed in both New Jersey and New York. Rebecca is a certified member of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience from Quinnipiac University in 2017. Rebecca completed her Master’s Degree in Communication Disorders from Sacred Heart University in 2020.

Rebecca has professional experience working with individuals across the lifespan. She completed her Clinical Fellowship year at various skilled nursing facilities, where she evaluated and treated adults to geriatrics diagnosed with cognitive communication, motor speech, voice, and swallowing disorders. Rebecca has also worked in the school setting with children to young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other cognitive differences. She has experience working with individuals using nonverbal methods of communication, such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Picture Exchange System (PECs), communication boards, and basic sign language. Rebecca is also PROMPT trained. Along with her professional experience, Rebecca has graduate experience in the hospital setting, both inpatient and outpatient, as well as public school experience at the elementary and middle school level.

Rebecca is committed to delivering quality, client-centered therapy. She holds highly the importance of evidenced-based practice. Rebecca is passionate about providing individualized intervention and believes it is important to build a strong rapport with those she services.

Samantha Bross, COTA

Samantha “Sammie” Bross is a Licensed and Certified Occupational Therapist assistant in the state of New Jersey. She attended Rutgers University where she received her Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health in 2017 and Occupational Therapy Degree from Eastwick College in 2019.

Sammie has had several years of experience working with children in a variety of settings. Her knowledge spans from, neurological, physical and developmental delays including ADHD, Sensory Processing Differences, Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Dyslexia/ Dysgraphia, and Orthopedic Rehabilitation. Sammie has also led group therapy sessions in Handwriting, Kindergarten Readiness, and social skills classes.

Her favorite part of being an OT is the opportunity to get to know a kiddos unique interests and strengths, and then use that insight to help them grow towards their full potential.

In her free time she enjoys reading, days at the beach, exercising and spending time with her little dog named Beatrice.

Samantha Krych, OTD, OTR/L

Samantha Krych is a Licensed and Registered Occupational Therapist in the state of New Jersey.  She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science at the University of Delaware in 2018 and a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from Kean University in 2021.

Throughout her graduate studies, Sam has worked with populations of all ages in a variety of settings including inpatient rehabilitation facilities, community based settings, and public schools.  She has experience working with a variety of diagnoses including CVA, cardiovascular diseases, traumatic brain injury, attention deficits, autism, sensory processing disorder, and cerebral palsy.

As part of her doctoral capstone, Sam created custom programming for the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases and delivered it in a low income housing building.  She presented her findings at the New Jersey Occupational Therapy Association annual conference.

Sam emphasizes an evidence-based, client-centered approach to treatment and seeks to help every individual reach their personal goals!

Shyla Leonard, M.A. CF-SLP

Shyla is a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Fellow in New Jersey and is passionate about empowering individuals with communication challenges. Earning her Bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Kean University (2020) and her Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology from Montclair State University (2023), Shyla brings a foundation in evidence-based practices to her work.

Throughout her academic career, she honed her skills in diverse settings. At the MSU Center for Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, she gained experience in evaluations, treatment planning, and interventions for children and adults with speech and language difficulties. She further solidified her expertise by providing individualized and group therapy in public and specialized schools, addressing the communication and swallowing needs of students with multiple disabilities.

Shyla prioritizes client-centered care and strong collaboration with families to ensure the best outcomes for her clients. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, exploring new culinary experiences, and unwinding with her favorite shows.

Tanvi Amin, M.S. CCC-SLP
Director of Client Relations

Tanvi is a Speech Language Pathologist licensed in the state of New Jersey. She is a certified member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA). She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Language Hearing Sciences at Kean University in 2011 and completed her graduate studies in Speech Language Pathology at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) in 2016.

During her graduate studies, she volunteered her time to ETSU’s National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association chapter as Secretary and is the recipient of the 2016 Outstanding SLP Student Clinician Award and 2016 Alpha Eta Award. Throughout her undergraduate and graduate studies, her clinical experiences in rehabilitation hospitals, a Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center, various schools, and skilled nursing facilities have provided her with the core clinical skills needed to advance as a clinician and accept new challenges. Tanvi is bilingual (English/Gujarati) and has worked with monolingual and bilingual students with a variety of communication disorders.

Tanvi has developed a passion for medical speech language pathology and has provided assessment and treatment services for a variety of speech, language, cognitive, voice, and/or swallowing disorders for adults who have neurologic degenerative diseases, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, head injuries, and/or respiratory problems. In addition, Tanvi has the clinical foundation to work with a variety of children with receptive and expressive language disorders as well as articulation and phonological impairments secondary to a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, ADHD, and/or other related disorders.

Tanvi exhibits an ability to quickly establish a comfortable rapport with patients from a variety of backgrounds and finds creative ways to help them achieve success.

Valerie Villanueva, M.S. CCC-SLP

Valerie is a NJ state licensed, ASHA certified speech-language pathologist. She graduated from Seton Hall University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary/Special Education and Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology.

Valerie has experience working with clients across the lifespan evaluating and treating expressive/receptive language, language processing, phonological disorders, articulation, fluency, executive functioning, pragmatics, and oral motor skills. She also completes Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) Evaluations and incorporates AAC into therapy. As a research assistant during her studies, Valerie had experience working with children with learning disabilities on written expression skills. She enjoys collaborating with various professionals to support her clients and their families. Valerie has taken additional coursework on various communication devices (e.g., TouchChat), Oral Placement Therapy (OPT), play-based therapy, and feeding.

Valerie believes that therapy should be functional, evidence-based, and patient-led with a collaborative approach so that clients feel empowered to carryover their skills outside of therapy. She strives to create individualized treatment plans that are multi-sensory, meaningful to the patient, and involve family/caregivers.