A letter from the clinician

Dear Families,

Welcome! My name is Emerald, and I’m a speech-language pathologist originally from the beautiful state of Pennsylvania. I’ve lived in sunny Florida since graduating from my master’s program and have truly enjoyed working with students and families throughout the South Florida community.

I became a speech-language pathologist because I believe that giving someone access to communication is one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer. Over the years, through hands-on clinical experience and working closely with children and their families, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the true heartbeat of pediatric speech-language pathology: supporting each child in authentically flourishing and creating a space where they feel safe to grow into who they are meant to be. Every communicator has the potential to grow in their ability to express themselves when provided with the right tools, support, and opportunities.

At its core, I believe communication is about connection — feeling understood, valued, and confident expressing who you are. Every child communicates in their own way, and there is no single path or timeline that fits every child. My goal as a speech-language pathologist is to create a supportive, engaging environment where children feel safe to explore not only communication, but also their identity, while ensuring families feel heard, respected, and actively involved in the therapeutic process.

My approach to therapy is grounded in curiosity and care. I take time to understand each child’s strengths, interests, and unique developmental profile, and I view therapy as a collaborative, evolving process rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. Therapy involves ongoing problem-solving and learning, guided by play, connection, and evidence-based practice. I believe every child has something to teach us, and sessions are designed to help communication grow in ways that feel meaningful and empowering for both the child and their family.

My hope is to walk alongside your family with care, curiosity, and respect — supporting your child in expressing themselves in ways that feel authentic and empowering. I look forward to connecting with you and getting to know your child.

Warmly,

Emerald

Why I started This Practice

I started this practice with the intention of providing thoughtful, individualized care that prioritizes connection above all. In many traditional settings, time and flexibility can be limited, which can make it difficult to fully honor a child’s pace, interests, and communication style. Each clinical experience has taught me something valuable, but I often found myself wishing for more space: more time to listen, more flexibility to follow a child’s interests, and more room for meaningful collaboration with families.

Private practice allows me to design therapy that is responsive, collaborative, and family-centered. It creates space for strong relationships, caregiver education, and intentional planning. Most importantly, it allows therapy to be shaped around the child, so progress can happen in a way that feels supportive, natural, and sustainable.

What Guides My Work

My approach to therapy is grounded in a few core beliefs:

  • Connection first — building trust and relationships is foundational to learning

  • Strengths-based care — focusing on abilities, interests, and potential

  • Play as a learning tool — play is purposeful, powerful, and meaningful

  • Respect for individuality — every child’s path is unique

  • Collaboration with families — caregivers are essential partners in the process

  • Thoughtful, evidence-based practice — therapy is informed by research, continuing education and clinical experience

These values shape how therapy is delivered, how goals are selected, and how families are supported.

Get To Know Me

My Favorite Childhood Game: The Game of Life.

A Book or Toy That Still Makes Me Smile: My LeapFrog and my cocker spaniel stuffed animal!

My Favorite Snack As a Child: Grapes.

What I Loved Learning As a Kid: I loved learning the map of the United States on my LeapFrog.

CONTACT US

Hours:

Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm

Phone:

(814) 207-5287

Email:

emeraldnimitzslp@gmail.com

Questions? Contact Emerald using the form or the contact information below.