Speech and Language Therapy That Sees the Whole Child

I believe every child and young person deserves to be understood, accepted as their authentic self and supported at their individual level.

A woman with shoulder-length light brown hair, wearing a black dress with white polka dots and a heart pendant necklace, smiling in a dimly lit social setting.

Hi, I’m Joanna

I'm a Specialist Speech and Language Therapist with over 20 years' experience supporting children and young people.

I have specialist expertise in Selective Mutism alongside extensive experience supporting a wide range of speech, language and communication needs.

My career began in Early Years before qualifying as a Speech and Language Therapist, giving me a strong foundation in child development, communication and the importance of creating enabling environments.

I hold a BA (Hons) in Early Years and Education and a BSc (Hons) in Speech and Language Therapy.

I provide assessment, therapy and consultation for children, young people, families, schools and Local Authorities across Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.

Having worked closely within schools for many years, I ensure recommendations are practical, achievable and designed to fit within everyday school life.

Professional Memberships

HCPC registered logo with blue background and white text.
HCPC registered logo with blue background and white text.
Logo for the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists, indicating membership.
Logo of the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP), featuring two speech bubbles.

My Experience

My Approach

Behaviour is Communication
Understanding the "why" behind behaviour

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My practice is neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based and individualised.

I believe communication develops best when children and young people feel safe, accepted and supported. My aim is not to change who a child is, but to identify what is making communication difficult and provide support that enables them to communicate in ways that work for them.

I don't start with a diagnosis; I start with the child in front of me.

Behaviour is telling us something important. Rather than making assumptions, I approach children and young people with curiosity, exploring the factors that may be contributing to their experiences. This helps reduce barriers, build on strengths and create supportive, nurturing environments where communication can flourish.

I work collaboratively with families, schools and professionals to embed practical strategies into everyday life and support meaningful progress beyond the therapy session.

Areas of Support

I support children and young people with:

A woman and a young boy are sitting at a table during a speech therapy session. The woman is holding a sign that says "SHOU" and appears to be guiding the boy with a speech exercise. The room has educational posters and a white brick wall.

Who I Work With

A woman giving a presentation on speech and language therapy to a group of adult students in a bright, modern classroom with white brick walls. A large screen displays the presentation topics, and a whiteboard with notes is on her right.

Schools & Local Authorities

I offer flexible, bespoke Speech and Language Therapy packages tailored to the needs of each setting.

What Schools and Families Say

  • "We've worked with Joanna for around five years, and her support has been invaluable throughout our daughter's journey with Selective Mutism. As our daughter's needs have changed over the years, Joanna has always adapted her approach with patience, understanding and genuine care. She has built a wonderful relationship with our daughter and has been a fantastic source of guidance and reassurance for us as parents. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Joanna to any family looking for compassionate, knowledgeable support."

    Parent of a young person with Selective Mutism and Autism

  • Joanna is a wonderful speech and language therapist! She got to know my son very quickly and really understood how to help him. She has such a lovely way about her and is a real fountain of knowledge. It’s been amazing to see my son’s confidence grow over the past year with his speech, thanks to Joanna!

    Parent of a child with complex communication needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Free 15-Minute Initial Telephone Consultation

I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation to discuss your concerns, answer questions and help determine whether Speech and Language Therapy may be appropriate for your child or young person.