Helping children communicate—and helping families understand how to support them—has been at the heart of my career for more than 25 years.

 

My clinical experience includes working with children with autism, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, developmental disabilities, and complex medical and communication needs. I am especially passionate about augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and assistive technology, helping children access ways to express their needs, share their thoughts, and connect with others.

 

My professional background includes training and experience in AAC, assistive technology, sign language, DIR/Floortime®, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and social skills development. I have presented at the Texas Assistive Technology Conference and consulted with school districts across Texas on strategies for making language visible and accessible in educational settings.

 

Helping Families Put Communication Into Practice

My work extends beyond individual therapy sessions. I create educational videos, visual supports, practice materials, and caregiver resources to help families support communication during everyday activities.

Through Sound Bite with Mrs. Amanda, I demonstrate ways to help children develop speech sounds. My AAC videos and companion resources help families learn about communication devices, model words, and create opportunities for children to participate in daily routines.

These resources reflect an important part of my approach: families deserve practical explanations and tools they can understand and use.

 

Education and Experience

I earned my undergraduate degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Texas State University in 2000, graduating Summa Cum Laude. I began my career as a Speech Assistant with the DeWitt-Lavaca Special Education Cooperative before earning my Master of Science in Communication Disorders from Texas Woman’s University in 2005. I received my Certificate of Clinical Competence in 2006.

My experience spans public education, Early Childhood Intervention, and outpatient pediatric therapy. I became Therapy Director of Building Kid Steps in 2011 and purchased the clinic in January 2014.

 

Why Building Kid Steps Matters to Me

I dreamed of creating a clinic where families could find skilled care, understanding, encouragement, and hope—and where therapists could learn and grow together.

As a wife and mother, I understand how personal it is to entrust someone with your child’s care. I want families to feel heard, understand the goals we are working toward, and recognize the strengths their child already brings.

Every child who walks through our doors is already an achiever. My privilege is helping children build on those strengths and take their next meaningful step.