Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs

Guest: Melissa Del Pino, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD:https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/maximizing-neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity gives us hope after a traumatic brain injury, but how we as SLPs tap into it makes all the difference. In this episode, Melissa Del Pino, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, joins host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, to share how centering patients’ voices, strengths, and lived experiences can lead to more meaningful recovery.

Together, they explore how to align therapy with goals that matter most to patients, recognize the small but powerful communication cues that guide intervention, and create strategies that help the brain rewire in lasting ways.

Tune in for practical, patient-centered approaches that remind us recovery isn’t just about techniques—it’s about truly listening and partnering with the people we serve.

About the Guest: Melissa Del Pino. MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, and Dr. Amen–Certified Brain Health Trainer. She is the founder of Speech Like Honey Speech Therapy Inc., a private practice offering speech therapy and consultation services across the lifespan, with a specialized focus on concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Melissa’s passion for brain health and athlete rehabilitation emerged through her clinical journey, where she found her calling in supporting TBI survivors. With a deep understanding of the challenges associated with brain injury and a strong commitment to harnessing neuroplasticity, she works to help individuals regain cognitive function, enhance communication, and optimize overall brain health. Melissa has been invited to speak on numerous topics, including the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia (LPAA), AAC assessment and intervention, creating language-rich environments for late talkers, the role of the SLP in school settings, and the cognitive-communication impacts of brain injury. Outside of her professional work, Melissa enjoys camping, gardening, Zumba, and pottery.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

Guest: Jaime Bauer Malandraki, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/heart-of-communication

In this episode of Brainstorms, we look at the often-overlooked role of mental health and its impact on education and rehabilitation. How do emotional well-being and psychological safety influence communication recovery? What can educators and rehabilitation professionals do to support the whole person, rather than just the diagnosis?

Guest Jaime Bauer Malandraki, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, and host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, discuss the emotional toll of mental health challenges faced by students and patients, as well as the role of SLPs and teachers in creating trauma-informed, empathetic environments.

About the Guest: Jaime Bauer Malandraki, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences at Purdue University. She received her bachelor’s degree from Portland State University and her master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her primary clinical and research interests lie in the evaluation and management of swallowing disorders across the lifespan, with a special emphasis on neurodegenerative conditions and head and neck cancer.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

Guests: Amber Heape, ClinScD, CCC-SLP, FNAP, and Brittany Horvath, SLPD, CCC-SLP, CDP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/speaking-of-comfort

In this episode, Renee Garrett welcomes Dr. Amber Heape and Dr. Brittany Horvath to explore the vital role SLPs play in these sensitive stages.

Together, they discuss evidence-based strategies for managing dysphagia, approaches to preserving communication, and the importance of aligning care with patient values.

You’ll also learn how SLPs can collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and advocate for compassionate, patient-centered care at the end of life. This conversation highlights the impact you can make in supporting both patients and caregivers when it matters most.

About the Guests: Dr. Amber B. Heape is Assistant Professor and SLPD Concentration Track Director in Health Professions Education at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Her teaching and research focus on aging, dementia, clinical research, and education. An award-winning educator, author, and national presenter, she has published extensively and is a frequent speaker at conferences nationwide. Dr. Heape also serves as Coordinator for ASHA’s Special Interest Group 15 (Gerontology), mentors emerging scholars, and promotes evidence-based practice in speech-language pathology. Over the past 20 years, she has supervised graduate students and guided numerous clinical fellows, helping to shape the next generation of professionals in the field.

Dr. Brittany McKee Horvath has built a diverse career in clinical rehabilitation, leadership, and advocacy. She currently provides expert care in home and community-based neurorehabilitation with Collage Rehabilitation Partners and is passionate about supporting individuals with neurological injuries and diseases. She also continues to serve those in skilled nursing facilities, veterans, and individuals receiving hospice and palliative care services. Brittany advocates for quality of life and shared decision-making at the end of life, ensuring compassionate, individualized care. She has received recognition from the Center to Advance Palliative Care with their designation in Communication Skills for Serious Illness Conversations for her commitment to continued progress toward improving the care of patients with serious illness. Her research on the impact of online palliative care training on SLPs’ self-perceived comfort and knowledge was published in the American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology in January 2025. In addition to her clinical work, Brittany actively contributes to advancing the field through teaching, mentoring, and speaking at conferences on topics related to neurorehabilitation and palliative care. In her free time, Brittany enjoys exercising, coaching her daughters' softball teams, and spending quality time with her family. She is also passionate about giving back to her community and volunteering with Project 4031, a nonprofit organization in North Texas, whose mission focuses on providing peace and comfort to terminally ill children, adults, and their families by easing financial burdens and fulfilling last wishes.

Show Notes:

Being Mortal Frontline Special - https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/documentary/being-mortal/

Counseling/Having difficult conversations -

The Conversation Project (free info/guides!) https://theconversationproject.org/

Center to Advance Palliative Care - SLP pathway: Some of their information is behind a paywall, requiring organizational membership; however, they also offer free resources on their site, and their introductory course is available to all at no cost. https://www.capc.org/training/learning-pathways/?topic=&practice_area=&discipline=Speech%20Language%20Pathologist

Zarit-Burden Interview (for caregivers): https://wai.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/1129/2021/11/Zarit-Caregiver-Burden-Assessment-Instruments.pdf

ASHA's practice portal: https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/resources/palliative-and-end-of-life-care/?srsltid=AfmBOoo7GiP-RtmN3bTIdDaBAhqzdCCFxXoy32Mi2znu06fY9jODH0Jo

Books:

Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

The Art of Dying Well by Katy Butler

On Death and Dying by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

End-of-life considerations by Helen Sharp and Amanda Stead

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

*****Originally Aired - August 29, 2024*****

Guest: Jaimie Anderson, MS, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/swallowing-solutions-navigating-functional-dysphagia

Renee is joined by Jaimie Anderson, MS, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS, to discuss functional dysphagia. Functional dysphagia occurs when individuals experience difficulty swallowing despite no structural abnormalities. It can significantly affect quality of life and impact daily life. Join Renee and Jaimie as they explore causes, symptoms, evaluation, and treatment options for functional dysphagia and delve into the complexities of the condition.

About the Guest: Jaimie Anderson, MS, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS, is a medical speech-language pathologist (SLP) board-certified by the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences (BC-ANCDS). She currently evaluates and treats complex, multiphase swallowing, voice, upper airway, and motor speech disorders as part of a multidisciplinary team at the University of South Florida Joy McCann Culverhouse Center for Swallowing Disorders in Tampa, Florida. She earned a Master of Science at Florida State University. Clinical experience includes UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, and Memorial Regional Hospital. She serves on committees for ANCDS, Dysphagia Research Society, and ASHA Special Interest Group 2 Neurogenic Communication Disorders.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

Guest: Anthony Koutsoftas, PhD, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/metacognitive-metalinguistic

Join Renee Garrett, host of the Speech Therapy PD podcast, as she welcomes Dr. Anthony Koutsoftas to discuss the intricacies of functional neuro-rehabilitation for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs). In this episode, they delve into metacognition and meta-linguistics, providing practical strategies for SLPs working with various client populations. Dr. Koutsoftas shares his journey into the field, offers insights into improving reading and writing skills, and emphasizes the importance of effective goal-setting. Perfect for SLP professionals, educators, and anyone interested in the complexities of language therapy, this episode is both informative and engaging.

About the Guest: Anthony D. Koutsoftas, PhD, CCC-SLP, is an Associate Professor of Speech-Language Pathology at Seton Hall University, where he directs the Reading, Oral Language, and Writing Lab (ROW-Lab). The lab is dedicated to improving language and literacy outcomes for school-age children. In addition to his academic role, Dr. Koutsoftas is the sole proprietor of The Speech Guy, PLLC, a research and professional development consultation company.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

*****Originally Aired June 2024*****

Guest: Alexandria Wynter Russell, MS, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/from-assessment-to-action-building-effective-treatment-plans

In this episode, Renee is joined by Alexandria Wynter Russell, MS, CCC-SLP, to discuss effective treatment plans for the adult patient. In the dynamic field of speech-language pathology, catering treatment plans to individual patient needs is paramount. Let's explore how incorporating patient-centered tasks and goals can elevate the effectiveness of therapy. Join Renee and Alex as we explore practical strategies to empower SLPs and patients toward improved communication and neurological function.

About the Guest: Alexandria Wynter Russell, MS, CCC-SLP, is a medical speech-language pathologist and founder of The Wynter Wellness Group, the only Black, woman-owned SLP practice in Philadelphia dedicated exclusively to serving adults and seniors. Her journey into private practice was deeply personal—shaped by her experience as a caregiver for her father with Parkinson’s disease and her efforts to help her parents navigate the healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Wynter Wellness Group is built on five core values: advocacy, health literacy, nutrition, mental health, and community. Alexandria’s work reflects a holistic approach to care, empowering individuals to become confident advocates for their own well-being. Celebrated for her impact in the Philadelphia community, Alexandria was recently featured in the Lingraphica documentary *Witnessing Their Words* and recognized as an ASHA Innovator. As a healthcare provider, caregiver, and entrepreneur, her mission is to help others discover their version of balance through compassionate, informed, and culturally responsive care.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

Guest: Tiffany Hoeft, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, CGCP, BCN

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/fighting-brain-fog

Join podcast host Renee Garrett as she speaks with Tiffany Hoeft, a board-certified neurofeedback provider and founder of Minds Matter, PLLC. With over 23 years of experience in cognitive rehabilitation, dementia management, and geriatric care, Tiffany shares her journey working in rural communities and the necessity of becoming both an expert and educator in her field. The discussion explores the application of quantitative EEGs, neurofeedback, and innovative, personalized treatment strategies to promote brain health. Tiffany highlights her work with patients post-concussion, post-COVID, and with various forms of dementia, while stressing the importance of community education and early intervention. Discover practical tips, real-life examples, and the impact of therapy on brain health in this insightful episode.

About the Guest: Tiffany Hoeft, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, CGCP, BCN, is a speech-language pathologist with over 23 years of clinical expertise in cognitive rehabilitation, geriatric care, and dementia management. She began her career working in skilled nursing facilities, rural clinics, and hospitals in Minnesota and South Dakota. Along this journey, she realized that as a rural SLP, she needed to be both an expert and an educator for her clients—helping them understand their condition and prepare for the path ahead. She became a Master Clinician in Dementia and an ASHA ACE Award winner, focusing her education on cognitive-communication deficits and the prevention and restoration of cognitive function. As a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and South Dakota’s only board-certified therapist in neurofeedback, Tiffany incorporates multiple treatment approaches to enhance her clients’ quality of life. She founded Minds Matter PLLC in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to offer innovative, evidence-based approaches that optimize brain health for all adults.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

*****Originally Aired: April 30, 2024 *****

Guest: Walt Fritz, PT

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/an-introduction-to-manual-therapy-for-slps

In this episode, Renee is joined by Walt Fritz, PT, to discuss manual therapy and its application in SLP practice. Walt brings his unique perspective and skill set to the forefront of this conversation, including evidence-based practice and shared decision-making. Join Renee and Walt for an hour packed with innovative concepts for the ever-evolving SLP practice repertoire.

About the Guest:

Walt Fritz, PT, is a licensed physical therapist with a B.S. in Physical Therapy (1985) and a B.A. in Community Mental Health (1984) from SUNY Buffalo. He began practicing Myofascial Release (MFR) in 1992 and is the most experienced practitioner in the Central and Western New York region, including Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, and the Southern Tier. Over the past ten years, he has advanced the MFR work he learned and taught, and now refers to his approach as “manual therapy.” While there are many reasons for this updated name, much of it relates to the underlying concepts used to explain its effects. Healthcare is full of unsubstantiated claims; helping someone with the work you do is not equivalent to those results validating the claims made. Walt teaches his Foundations in Manual Therapy seminars worldwide to physical therapists, massage therapists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists. With over 30 years of experience as a physical therapist, he combines the best of traditional physical therapy interventions with modern approaches to Myofascial Release.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

Guest: Kim Neely, MM, MS, CCC-SLP, for "Trauma-Aware" to "Trauma-Sensitive": Starting Your Trauma-Informed Journey, an episode of the Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs podcast.

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/trauma-aware-to-sensitive

Join host Renee Garrett as she explores the fundamentals of trauma-informed care for speech-language pathologists, featuring special guest Kim Neely. In this episode, learn about the physiology of the emotional system, survival modes, and the importance of understanding trauma in both children and adults. Kim Neely shares her insights from her unique career journey, combining her expertise in speech-language pathology, musical training, and neuroscience. Explore how systemic adversity affects marginalized groups and the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all patients.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Disclosures

01:35 Meet Our Guest: Kim Neely

03:27 Understanding the Emotional System

13:14 Survival Modes and Trauma Response

19:28 Implications for Therapy and Patient Care

33:14 Understanding the Amygdala and Attention Networks

34:45 Applying Neuroscience to Marginalized Groups

35:42 Grocery Store Anecdotes and Trauma-Informed Care

38:51 Systemic Adversity and Social Hierarchies

43:28 The ACE Study and Community Trauma

57:50 Misdiagnosis of ADHD and PTSD

01:01:02 Historical Context of Trauma and Mental Health

01:02:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Kim Neely, MM, MS, CCC-SLP, is a practicing speech-language pathologist who brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, musical training, and a curiosity about neuroscience to her work. Before entering the field of speech-language pathology, Kim was a (mildly successful) opera singer and voice teacher. She earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Arizona in 2014, where she was honored with the Jean R. Guloien Outstanding Graduate Student Award. Despite not being accepted into graduate school on her first attempt, Kim went on to pursue doctoral-level coursework in neuroscience, driven by her deep interest in brain science and—admittedly—her hyperfixations. Kim identifies as neuroqueer and is passionately focused on trauma-informed care. During the COVID-19 shutdown, she completed a graduate course on the topic (her version of a sourdough starter) and continued her training through Trauma Institute International, earning certification as a Trauma-Support Specialist (CTSS), which she maintains through ongoing education. She’s “pretty okay” at being an SLP—but exceptionally committed to making the field more informed, inclusive, and brain-savvy.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7

Guest: Dani Scott, PhD, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/foundations-of-inclusive

Join Renee Garrett as she welcomes Dr. Dani Scott, an associate clinical professor at Northeastern University Charlotte, for an insightful conversation on inclusive teaching and cultural humility in the field of speech-language pathology. Dr. Scott shares her journey into academia, her commitment to fostering equity and representation, and her innovative approaches to teaching, including ungrading and flexible deadlines. They discuss the importance of building community in classrooms, lifelong learning, and addressing systemic issues in education. Tune in to explore how these transformative teaching practices can lead to better student outcomes and a more compassionate learning environment.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Disclosures

01:24 Welcoming Dr. Dani Scott

02:57 Dr. Scott's Journey into Speech Language Pathology

05:53 Cultural Humility and Teaching Practices

07:45 Challenges and Innovations in Academic Teaching

17:46 Flexible Deadlines and Anti-Racist Teaching

26:35 Personal Experiences and Teaching Philosophy

31:41 Theoretical Frameworks in Mentorship and Supervision

34:13 Lifelong Learning and Guest Lectures

34:40 Understanding Intersectionality

35:26 Critical Self-Reflection and Positionality

36:28 Building Mutually Beneficial Partnerships

37:25 Institutional Accountability and Systemic Issues

37:55 Community Engagement and Trust Building

45:10 Challenges in Group Work and Student Dynamics

57:35 Flexible Deadlines and Trust in Education

01:01:54 Final Thoughts and Resources

About the Guest:

R. Danielle Scott, Ph.D., CCC-SLP (she/her) is an Associate Clinical Professor in the Communication Sciences & Disorders Program at Northeastern University Charlotte. She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology and Comparative Women's Studies from Spelman College, her Master's degree in Speech Language Pathology from Indiana University, and her Ph.D. in Psychology with an emphasis in cognition and instruction from Grand Canyon University. Dr. Scott's scholarship centers on cultural humility, therapeutic relationships, and social justice within Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. Her commitment to justice, belonging, and liberation drives both her research and pedagogical approach. As a Northeastern University Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning Through Research (CATLR) Innovative Teaching Excellence Fellow, she advances inclusive, anti-oppressive teaching practices that transform educational experiences. Dr. Scott serves as a board member of the National Black Association for Speech, Language, and Hearing (NBASLH) and co-chairs the Cultural Humility Task Force, furthering her dedication to equity and representation in the field.

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Aphasia Discourse Conference on June 7