As a child and even into adulthood, I sometimes did not feel secure in my voice.  I have worked as a speech language therapist and pathologist since 2008. This is my second career. Previously, I worked as an editor in a quiet room with a predictable schedule. I have worked primarily in an elementary school setting, but I also have experience working with students and clients in a variety of other settings: early intervention, middle school, and skilled nursing facilities. Whatever the setting and whoever is on my caseload, my focus is always on the needs and interests of my clients and students. Kindness is the guiding word in all my endeavors. I have 9 years of experience supervising graduate student interns from San Jose State University, Emerson College, Arizona State University, and San Francisco State University. I believes that modeling strategies and techniques is critical to help every conversation partner learn how to better communicate. Communication is a shared experience where each person can benefit and learn to engage better with others.