No Records Found
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Google Map Not Loaded
Sorry, unable to load Google Maps API.
- Kelsey
- Wickre
- No
- 1900 D Street
Bellingham
Washington
98225
United States - Catalyst Therapies, LLC
Bellingham
Washington
98225
United States
My overall treatment for children with CAS includes focusing on a few target sounds/words/phrases during a session with multi-sensory cueing (verbal, gestural, tactile) and then expanding into more syllable shapes/target words. I follow the Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) approach, which is based on the principles of motor learning. I use both Bjorem Speech Sound Cues and Kaufman cards in therapy in conjunction with motor planning applications or online activities; whatever my client is the most interested in! I also use Talk Tools if it is warranted for achieving vowels, and sometimes, consonants. Treatment sessions include the use of functional vocabulary and frequent intensive practice of the target (sound, syllable, word, sentence). I use both massed and distributed practice, depending on whether I am working towards acquiring the target or generalizing the target. I frequently use video modeling for teaching challenging sounds and/or syllable shapes.
I am a firm believer in a collaborative, team approach to help a child succeed in therapy. I collaborate with OTs, PTs, teachers, caregivers, and any other professional who is involved in the child’s life; it is very important that the child's sensory needs are met and that the family is supported holistically. I am well educated in neurodivergent-affirming therapeutic practices as well; my goal is for my clients to be their authentic self and be able to effectively communicate! I prefer to see clients 2-5 times a week if schedules and insurance allow for it.
Caregivers frequently attend my sessions, but I try to find a good balance between parents in the session and working 1:1 with the child, as often both caregivers and myself agree that more is accomplished in a session with the caregivers out of the room. However, the caregivers of the child are always aware of what is being targeted and how to best approach this at home. I usually recommend practicing daily at home for 5-15 minutes, depending on the child’s tolerance for practice.
I use a variety of communication apps and low-tech AAC options to help a child establish a successful way of communicating wants and needs as soon as possible. I am an advocate for obtaining speech-generating devices that will be successful in therapy, at home, at school, and in the community. My clinic just launched an AAC department, so now I can offer sessions with an SLP who specializes in AAC alongside my speech-focused sessions. I have written many letters and reports in order to get devices purchased for the families by their insurance, grants, or state government assistance.