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Grow Speech and Language Therapy in Vancouver, BC specializes in child and family-centered therapy for children up to 18 years of age. Grow is part of the multi-disciplinary clinic Steps BC, which allows clinicians to coordinate and provide your child with comprehensive services. At Grow we strive to provide meaningful and evidence-based interventions to help your child meet their goals and reach their potential.
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Meet the team
CArla monteleone m.SLP., rslp - Speech-Language Pathologist
Carla Monteleone is one of the directors & co-owners of Grow Speech & Language Therapy. Carla received her Masters of Speech and Language Pathology from the University of Alberta. She has worked in a variety of settings with a variety of populations including preschool aged children in public health, school aged children in the North Vancouver School District, and all ages in her private practice. Carla is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC. and is certified by Speech and Audiology Canada. Carla is on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP).
An adjunct professor at the School of Speech Sciences and Audiology at UBC, she teaches the Fluency Disorders class. She is also a clinical instructor at UBC and enjoys providing mentorship to future SLPs.
Carla has worked with children facing a range of speech and language disorders including developmental language disorders and social language delays. In addition, she has experience working with children with learning disabilities, executive functioning disorders and selective mutism. Carla has special interests in motor speech disorders including Childhood Apraxia of Speech and fluency disorders. She is Recognized by Apraxia Kids for Advanced Training and Expertise in Childhood Apraxia of Speech. She has a European Clinical Specialization in Fluency Disorders.
Carla has attended multiple workshops in Social Thinking by Michelle Garcia Winner and Executive Functioning Skills by Sarah Ward. She is also trained in the following: PROMPT, the Hanen program, the Lidcombe program, Palin Parent Child Interaction approach, Meaningful Speech and RESTART Demands and Capacities. Carla is also trained in LSVT LOUD for kids, an intensive, neuroplasticity-based treatment addressing vocal loudness, articulation, and intelligibility, and intonation . Carla is continuing to expand her knowledge in the area of oromyfunctional disorders.
Carla is excited to be partnering with her long time friend, Deborah Carter, and to continue working with the Steps BC multidisciplinary team. She takes a family centered approach to providing therapy that is individualized, fun, and relaxed. She is looking forward to meeting all the current Grow families and welcoming new ones.
An adjunct professor at the School of Speech Sciences and Audiology at UBC, she teaches the Fluency Disorders class. She is also a clinical instructor at UBC and enjoys providing mentorship to future SLPs.
Carla has worked with children facing a range of speech and language disorders including developmental language disorders and social language delays. In addition, she has experience working with children with learning disabilities, executive functioning disorders and selective mutism. Carla has special interests in motor speech disorders including Childhood Apraxia of Speech and fluency disorders. She is Recognized by Apraxia Kids for Advanced Training and Expertise in Childhood Apraxia of Speech. She has a European Clinical Specialization in Fluency Disorders.
Carla has attended multiple workshops in Social Thinking by Michelle Garcia Winner and Executive Functioning Skills by Sarah Ward. She is also trained in the following: PROMPT, the Hanen program, the Lidcombe program, Palin Parent Child Interaction approach, Meaningful Speech and RESTART Demands and Capacities. Carla is also trained in LSVT LOUD for kids, an intensive, neuroplasticity-based treatment addressing vocal loudness, articulation, and intelligibility, and intonation . Carla is continuing to expand her knowledge in the area of oromyfunctional disorders.
Carla is excited to be partnering with her long time friend, Deborah Carter, and to continue working with the Steps BC multidisciplinary team. She takes a family centered approach to providing therapy that is individualized, fun, and relaxed. She is looking forward to meeting all the current Grow families and welcoming new ones.
DEborah Carter, m.sc., rslp- Speech-Language Pathologist
Deborah is one of the directors and co-owners of Grow Speech & Language Therapy. Deborah received her Masters of Speech and Language Pathology from the University of British Columbia. During the last 20 years, Deborah has worked in community health with preschool-age children in the Fraser Region, with school-age children in the Delta and Burnaby School Districts, and children and youth in her private practice. Deborah is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and is certified by Speech & Audiology Canada. Deborah is on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP).
Deborah regularly presents professional development workshops to school district staff and has lectured on the topic of Fluency Disorders at UBC. She frequently consults with school-based teams and provides mentorship to teachers, educational assistants, and is a clinical instructor to UBC SLP graduate students.
Deborah has experience working with a diverse population of children with communication needs and disorders to support their communication, inclusion, independence and social-emotional development. Her areas of clinical interest and training include Autism Spectrum Disorders, Social Communication, Executive Functioning, Language-Based Learning Disabilities, Fluency Disorders, Speech Sound Disorders, Phonological Development and Developmental Language Delay. Deborah has attended numerous workshops in Social Thinking by Michelle Garcia Winner and Executive Functioning Skills by Sarah Ward. She is trained in the Hanen Program, The Lidcombe Program, Meaningful Speech, PROMPT and the assessment and intervention of school-age Fluency Disorders through the Stuttering Foundation of America. Deborah has extensive experience in the areas of of Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC), motor-speech disorders and voice.
Deborah's love of languages, voice, children, and teaching drew her to the field of Speech and Language Pathology.
Deborah has performed as a vocalist in local professional bands for over 25 years. She is fluent in French and Hungarian.
Deborah strongly values collaboration and building positive relationships with families and teams. She brings this approach to her therapy and motivates children through engagement and playfulness. She strives to empower parents and caregivers to learn tools and gain resources to support their child’s communication and well-being.
Deborah regularly presents professional development workshops to school district staff and has lectured on the topic of Fluency Disorders at UBC. She frequently consults with school-based teams and provides mentorship to teachers, educational assistants, and is a clinical instructor to UBC SLP graduate students.
Deborah has experience working with a diverse population of children with communication needs and disorders to support their communication, inclusion, independence and social-emotional development. Her areas of clinical interest and training include Autism Spectrum Disorders, Social Communication, Executive Functioning, Language-Based Learning Disabilities, Fluency Disorders, Speech Sound Disorders, Phonological Development and Developmental Language Delay. Deborah has attended numerous workshops in Social Thinking by Michelle Garcia Winner and Executive Functioning Skills by Sarah Ward. She is trained in the Hanen Program, The Lidcombe Program, Meaningful Speech, PROMPT and the assessment and intervention of school-age Fluency Disorders through the Stuttering Foundation of America. Deborah has extensive experience in the areas of of Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC), motor-speech disorders and voice.
Deborah's love of languages, voice, children, and teaching drew her to the field of Speech and Language Pathology.
Deborah has performed as a vocalist in local professional bands for over 25 years. She is fluent in French and Hungarian.
Deborah strongly values collaboration and building positive relationships with families and teams. She brings this approach to her therapy and motivates children through engagement and playfulness. She strives to empower parents and caregivers to learn tools and gain resources to support their child’s communication and well-being.
Alexandra Dunn, M.SC. RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Alex has an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education from Queen’s University. She also completed a Master's of Clinical Science in Communicative Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology) from the University of Western Ontario.
Alex believes that everyone has something to teach and something to learn from each other and that learning should be a fun and enjoyable experience for all involved. She has extensive experience supporting children from birth to 18 years of age in the areas of articulation, language, literacy, augmentative and alternative communication and more. Alex has supported clients in a school board environment for over 28 years.
Alex has presented at over 90 national/international events sharing research supporting the use of technology (SMART Technology, iPads, Assistive Technology) and theory as part of a Universal Design for Learning Toolkit to ensure all students achieve the goal of meaningful academic and social participation. Alex was named SMART Technologies Exemplary Educator of the Year for Canada and was awarded the prestigious C21 Shifting Minds National Individual Award for leadership in 21st Century Learning/Innovation presented by the Right Honorable Paul Martin. Alex is also a certified Hanen It Takes Two to Talk trainer.
Alex is fluent in English and French.
Alex believes that everyone has something to teach and something to learn from each other and that learning should be a fun and enjoyable experience for all involved. She has extensive experience supporting children from birth to 18 years of age in the areas of articulation, language, literacy, augmentative and alternative communication and more. Alex has supported clients in a school board environment for over 28 years.
Alex has presented at over 90 national/international events sharing research supporting the use of technology (SMART Technology, iPads, Assistive Technology) and theory as part of a Universal Design for Learning Toolkit to ensure all students achieve the goal of meaningful academic and social participation. Alex was named SMART Technologies Exemplary Educator of the Year for Canada and was awarded the prestigious C21 Shifting Minds National Individual Award for leadership in 21st Century Learning/Innovation presented by the Right Honorable Paul Martin. Alex is also a certified Hanen It Takes Two to Talk trainer.
Alex is fluent in English and French.
Ali Vickers, M.SC. RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Ali is a registered Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), and a member of the College of Health and Care Professionals of British Columbia. She completed her Speech-Language Pathology Masters degree at UBC’s School of Audiology and Speech Sciences.
Prior to her career as an SLP, Ali’s experience spans preschool, elementary, and high school settings, where she worked with children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Throughout her graduate studies, she gained unique experiences supporting children who are d/Deaf and hard of hearing, infants in the NICU, head and neck cancer patients, and adults with neurodegenerative and acquired language disorders. In addition, her experience supporting children with motor speech disorders, developmental language disorders (DLD), and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) users, has fueled her passion for the diverse field of Speech Pathology.
Committed to evidence-based practices, Ali employs a neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed approach, creating a safe and engaging environment where her clients can express themselves through any modality. She places a high value on building trusting and authentic relationships with her clients and their families, utilizing family-centered and strengths-based approaches to develop functional and meaningful goals tailored to each individual’s unique needs. In her personal life, Ali enjoys spending weekends in the mountains hiking and backcountry camping, as well as teaching yoga classes in her community, integrating her love of nature and mindfulness into her professional practice.
Prior to her career as an SLP, Ali’s experience spans preschool, elementary, and high school settings, where she worked with children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Throughout her graduate studies, she gained unique experiences supporting children who are d/Deaf and hard of hearing, infants in the NICU, head and neck cancer patients, and adults with neurodegenerative and acquired language disorders. In addition, her experience supporting children with motor speech disorders, developmental language disorders (DLD), and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) users, has fueled her passion for the diverse field of Speech Pathology.
Committed to evidence-based practices, Ali employs a neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed approach, creating a safe and engaging environment where her clients can express themselves through any modality. She places a high value on building trusting and authentic relationships with her clients and their families, utilizing family-centered and strengths-based approaches to develop functional and meaningful goals tailored to each individual’s unique needs. In her personal life, Ali enjoys spending weekends in the mountains hiking and backcountry camping, as well as teaching yoga classes in her community, integrating her love of nature and mindfulness into her professional practice.
Alison Quiring, M.Sc., RSLP- Speech-Language Pathologist
Alison graduated from the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences with a Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology and is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada. She is passionate about helping individuals connect with their family, friends, and communities while advocating for accessibility in all areas of life. Alison values evidence-based approaches, cultural safety, and neurodiversity affirming practices. She has experience working with children and teens with autism and believes strongly in a family-centered, play-based, and strengths-based approach. She She also has experience working with children who have phonology, motor speech, language, and articulation disorders. Alison was a leader with UBC’s Camp Connect, where she learned about and communicated with children through Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC). This has become an area of interest for her, as she has seen how impactful having access to a robust communication system can be for children with a wide variety of diagnoses, delays, and disorders. Alison has experience working with children and families from a wide variety of cultural and language backgrounds. Prior to beginning her master’s degree, she spent a year working in a children’s home in Zimbabwe, Africa and had the opportunity to complete her final clinical placement in the Aboriginal Headstart Preschool Programs in East Vancouver. In her free time, Alison enjoys reading, riding her bike, visiting the beach, trying new restaurants, and learning guitar!
Andrew Martin, MSC., rslp - Speech-Language Pathologist
Andrew completed his Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences. He is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada. Andrew has supported individuals with a range of communication needs in the areas of language, articulation and phonology, stuttering, users of Alternative and Augmentative Communication, voice and social-cognitive disorders. He has extensive experience working with Autistic and neurodivergent children and youth. His experience in the daycare and school systems has made him a passionate advocate for ensuring every student feels like they belong. Prior to becoming an SLP, Andrew has been bringing his patience and enthusiasm to a variety of fun, high-energy settings: from kayak tours, to piano lessons, to summer camps. His love of books, stories, and art is always evident in his sessions. He values an approach that is family-centered, neurodiversity-affirming; welcoming of all diversity, and rooted in evidence-based practice. Andrew is honoured to be a part of the Grow team, and to help foster meaningful, long-lasting change for the families he works with.
Annika Fong, M.SC., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Annika completed her Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences and is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada. In her sessions, Annika emphasizes a tailored, neurodiversity-affirming approach using evidence-based practices, while ensuring the sessions are LOTS OF FUN ! Annika has worked with clients of all ages in diverse settings, including private clinics, daycares, and schools.
Annika’s clinical interests include fluency, articulation/phonological disorders, motor speech disorders, executive functioning, social communication, developmental language disorders (DLD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Committed to lifelong learning, she regularly participates in continuing education, collaborates closely with clients and their families, and seeks out mentorship to stay at the forefront of the SLP field.
Annika loves playing volleyball, playing piano, discovering new restaurants, and creating perfumes and soap! Her SLP superpower? A love for video games - always a great conversation starter for getting to know the kids!
Annika’s clinical interests include fluency, articulation/phonological disorders, motor speech disorders, executive functioning, social communication, developmental language disorders (DLD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Committed to lifelong learning, she regularly participates in continuing education, collaborates closely with clients and their families, and seeks out mentorship to stay at the forefront of the SLP field.
Annika loves playing volleyball, playing piano, discovering new restaurants, and creating perfumes and soap! Her SLP superpower? A love for video games - always a great conversation starter for getting to know the kids!
Ashtyn DeBoice, M.Sc., RSLP- Speech-Language Pathologist
Ashtyn graduated from the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences with a Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology and is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada. Ashtyn has 6 years of experience supporting children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and other speech, language and communication challenges. Her areas of interests also include speech sound and articulation disorders, motor speech disorders, fluency, and social communication and pragmatic language. She has completed her Hanen - More Than Words certification and is working on building her hours with supervision to become a Registered Autism Service Provider in BC. She also intends on completing her PROMPT training within the year. Ashtyn’s philosophy is the 3 P’s: Play, Patience, and Persistence. Learning is best done when the environment feels safe, the activities are engaging, and of course, when the sessions are fun! Ashtyn is immensely grateful for the opportunity to learn from the wonderful team at Grow, and provide meaningful care for our Grow children and families.
Catherine Peciuch, B.Sc., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Catherine has been working in schools for children with autism and learning disabilities for over 8 years. She graduated from Leeds Beckett University school of Social Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Language Therapy. She has experience both in providing speech therapy intervention and teaching literacy to students with learning disabilities. Catherine's areas of interest are autism spectrum disorder, social communication and pragmatic language, emotional regulation, phonological awareness and literacy skills. Catherine is registered with Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Canada (SAC). She is now recertified as a speech language pathologist in Canada and is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC. Catherine is trained in Social Thinking methodologies and is certified with PEERS for adolescents and Telehealth, as well as Hanen It Takes Two to Talk.
Chelsea Jang, slpa- Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Chelsea completed a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Sciences with a minor in Special Education and is currently in her final term of the MSc Speech-Language Pathology program at UBC. With over five years of experience working with a variety of populations in SLP and OT settings, she has developed a foundation in supporting individuals with diverse communication abilities.
Through clinical placements in early intervention and at Grow, Chelsea has gained experience in a range of areas, including articulation, phonology, language development, literacy, social communication, fluency, and AAC. Language development and literacy are clinical interests in which she strives to make a meaningful impact in helping children thrive. Chelsea also completed a placement in acute care and has an interest in working with people with aphasia and cognitive communication disorders. With a passion for accessibility, she contributes to projects that help make communities and services more inclusive of diverse populations in Canada and internationally.
Chelsea values fun and functional sessions that foster meaningful connections. She is committed to family-centered, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally sensitive practice that harnesses each individual’s unique strengths. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cycling and spending time with her dog.
Through clinical placements in early intervention and at Grow, Chelsea has gained experience in a range of areas, including articulation, phonology, language development, literacy, social communication, fluency, and AAC. Language development and literacy are clinical interests in which she strives to make a meaningful impact in helping children thrive. Chelsea also completed a placement in acute care and has an interest in working with people with aphasia and cognitive communication disorders. With a passion for accessibility, she contributes to projects that help make communities and services more inclusive of diverse populations in Canada and internationally.
Chelsea values fun and functional sessions that foster meaningful connections. She is committed to family-centered, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally sensitive practice that harnesses each individual’s unique strengths. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cycling and spending time with her dog.
EMILIE RUSSO, SLPA- Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Emilie is an undergraduate student at The University of British Columbia pursuing a degree in Speech Sciences. She is also taking coursework in psychology, and special education as part of her well-rounded studies. Emilie is planning to pursue a career in Speech-Language Pathology. She brings her experience as a leader with children in summer camps and teaching assistant roles to her speech-language pathology assistant work at Grow. Emily is dedicated to working with children with communication needs and has been an indispensable volunteer at Grow prior to becoming a speech-language assistant at our East Vancouver clinic. Emily builds wonderful rapport with her young clients while engaging them and supporting their skill development. In her free time, Emilie loves to listen to music and crochet.
Fiona Humbert-Droz, M.SC., RSLP- Speech-Language Pathologist
Fiona graduated with a Masters in Science of Speech-Language Pathology from University of British Columbia. She is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Professions of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada. Fiona began developing her passions and skills in the field in 2012 when she started working with Autistic children, youth and their families. Prior to obtaining her degree in Speech-Language Pathology, Fiona spent 6 years working in Toronto as a child-youth worker and providing services as a communicative disorders assistant (CDA) at community programs, homes, clinics, and schools. Her areas of interest include evidence-based practices in supporting Gestalt Language Learners, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users, and children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and motor speech disorders. Fiona is working towards building hours of supervision to become a registered Autism Service Provider in B.C. This year, she attended the Neurodiversity-Affirming practices workshop with Autistic SLP Rachel Dorsey and is currently completing the Meaningful Speech course for training in natural language acquisition.
Fiona is committed to ongoing learning about neurodiversity affirming practices, honouring all communication styles, and maintaining a strength interest-based approach. She is passionate about working with culturally and linguistically diverse families. As a child, she spent years living between various countries in Asian and Europe and recognizes how integrated cultural and communication values are. She prioritizes a family and client-centered approach and views relationships and trust as the foundation of treatment success. Fiona is thrilled to be a member of the Grow team and to provide care and support for our wonderful families! In her free time, she enjoys pitch and putt, trying new cafes to satisfy her love of coffee and going on walks with her dog, Goose.
Fiona is committed to ongoing learning about neurodiversity affirming practices, honouring all communication styles, and maintaining a strength interest-based approach. She is passionate about working with culturally and linguistically diverse families. As a child, she spent years living between various countries in Asian and Europe and recognizes how integrated cultural and communication values are. She prioritizes a family and client-centered approach and views relationships and trust as the foundation of treatment success. Fiona is thrilled to be a member of the Grow team and to provide care and support for our wonderful families! In her free time, she enjoys pitch and putt, trying new cafes to satisfy her love of coffee and going on walks with her dog, Goose.
Kaitlyn Martinson, M.Sc., RSLP- Speech-Language Pathologist
Kaitlyn has graduated with her Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada. She has gained experience practicing in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals and a private practice in the Yukon! Since then, Kaitlyn has been dedicated to working with children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other speech, language and communication challenges. Other areas of interest include Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), fluency, phonological awareness, narrative language, literacy, social communication and motor speech disorders. Kaitlyn is building her hours with supervision to become a Registered Autism Service Provider in BC and plans to complete PROMPT training as well as Hanen - More than Words within the year. Person-centered care is a fundamental part of Kaitlyn’s work. Every client is different and requires personalized, and individualized care to ensure that their needs and concerns are met. Kaitlyn enjoys working as part of a team of professionals at Grow and Steps BC to be able to provide holistic and comprehensive care for children and their families.
kATRINA jENKINS, M.Sc., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Katrina Jenkins is a Speech-Language Pathologist who was born and raised in North Vancouver. She completed her Master of Science in Speech Sciences and Audiology at the University of British Columbia and she is a registered member of the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC.
Katrina has worked with preschool-aged children in the public health sector for over 10 years. She has had the privilege of supporting a wide range of speech and language clients, including those with early language delays and developmental language disorders, suspected or diagnosed autism spectrum disorder, phonological disorders, motor planning disorders, speech sound delays and stuttering. Her areas of interest include articulation and phonology, childhood apraxia of speech, and early language delays. She is certified in the Hanen More Than Words program and the Lidcombe program. She is currently deepening her knowledge of neurodiversity affirming practices and Natural Language Acquisition (Blanc, 2012).
In addition to being a Speech Therapist, Katrina is a wife and parent to three young children (and one very large fur baby!). Family centered care is a core value for Katrina and is integrated into all aspects of her work.
Katrina has worked with preschool-aged children in the public health sector for over 10 years. She has had the privilege of supporting a wide range of speech and language clients, including those with early language delays and developmental language disorders, suspected or diagnosed autism spectrum disorder, phonological disorders, motor planning disorders, speech sound delays and stuttering. Her areas of interest include articulation and phonology, childhood apraxia of speech, and early language delays. She is certified in the Hanen More Than Words program and the Lidcombe program. She is currently deepening her knowledge of neurodiversity affirming practices and Natural Language Acquisition (Blanc, 2012).
In addition to being a Speech Therapist, Katrina is a wife and parent to three young children (and one very large fur baby!). Family centered care is a core value for Katrina and is integrated into all aspects of her work.
Krista Salanki, M.SC., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Krista holds a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from UBC and Undergraduate Degrees in Cognitive Science of Language and Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour from McMaster University. She is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada.
In her sessions, Krista combines a neurodiversity-affirming approach with evidence-based practice. Her focus is to tailor services to meet the unique needs of clients and their families, while fostering a fun and creative learning environment. She has worked with clients of all ages in diverse settings, including private clinics, daycares, schools, rehabilitation centres, and hospitals.
Krista's clinical interests include gestalt language processing, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), developmental language disorders (DLD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and communication challenges associated with acquired brain injuries. She also has a keen interest in articulation, motor speech, phonological disorders, executive functioning, and social communication. Krista’s past research has focused on studying the interaction between traumatic brain injury and social communication within the Centre for Advanced Research in Experimental and Applied Linguistics (ARiEAL) at McMaster University.
Committed to ongoing learning and development, Krista continuously enhances her skills through continuing education, active engagement with clients and their families, and gaining clinical mentorship. In her free time, Krista enjoys creating music, caring for her houseplants, and exploring the great outdoors through activities like hiking and skiing.
In her sessions, Krista combines a neurodiversity-affirming approach with evidence-based practice. Her focus is to tailor services to meet the unique needs of clients and their families, while fostering a fun and creative learning environment. She has worked with clients of all ages in diverse settings, including private clinics, daycares, schools, rehabilitation centres, and hospitals.
Krista's clinical interests include gestalt language processing, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), developmental language disorders (DLD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and communication challenges associated with acquired brain injuries. She also has a keen interest in articulation, motor speech, phonological disorders, executive functioning, and social communication. Krista’s past research has focused on studying the interaction between traumatic brain injury and social communication within the Centre for Advanced Research in Experimental and Applied Linguistics (ARiEAL) at McMaster University.
Committed to ongoing learning and development, Krista continuously enhances her skills through continuing education, active engagement with clients and their families, and gaining clinical mentorship. In her free time, Krista enjoys creating music, caring for her houseplants, and exploring the great outdoors through activities like hiking and skiing.
LARA KILBERTUS, M.SC., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Lara completed her Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology at UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences, she also holds a Master's in Linguistics from the University of Ottawa. She is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada.
Lara has experience working in private and public schools, working to support students of all abilities from K-12. She enjoys working with children and their families and has experience in a number of areas including speech sound disorders, AAC, developmental language disorder, social communication, and literacy. Lara is passionate about supporting all her clients in a way that fosters self-determination and meaningful connection to those around them.
Lara has experience working in private and public schools, working to support students of all abilities from K-12. She enjoys working with children and their families and has experience in a number of areas including speech sound disorders, AAC, developmental language disorder, social communication, and literacy. Lara is passionate about supporting all her clients in a way that fosters self-determination and meaningful connection to those around them.
Larissa rUIZ, M.SC., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Larissa completed her Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences and is a proud member of the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC. She believes in making therapy as enjoyable as it is effective, always striving to bring creativity, fun, and a personalized touch to her sessions!
With experience working in diverse settings, including private clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers, Larissa has supported clients of all ages, from toddlers to adults. Her clinical interests include speech sound disorders, language delays, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), motor speech disorders, cognitive-communication challenges, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). She’s especially passionate about helping both children and adults find their voice and connect with the world around them.
As an English-Portuguese bilingual, Larissa loves working with clients from diverse backgrounds and believes in the power of a family-centered approach. Outside of work, she’s an avid reader, passionate about drawing, a foodie always on the hunt for the best new restaurants, and a travel enthusiast who’s always up for an adventure.
With experience working in diverse settings, including private clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers, Larissa has supported clients of all ages, from toddlers to adults. Her clinical interests include speech sound disorders, language delays, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), motor speech disorders, cognitive-communication challenges, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). She’s especially passionate about helping both children and adults find their voice and connect with the world around them.
As an English-Portuguese bilingual, Larissa loves working with clients from diverse backgrounds and believes in the power of a family-centered approach. Outside of work, she’s an avid reader, passionate about drawing, a foodie always on the hunt for the best new restaurants, and a travel enthusiast who’s always up for an adventure.
Laura Keith, MSC., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Laura is a registered speech-language pathologist with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC. She completed a Masters of Science from the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences as well as a Masters in Linguistique et Didactique des Langues from the Université de Rennes 2 in France. She also holds a teaching credential from the UBC Faculty of Education in French immersion elementary teaching.
Laura also works as a school-based SLP and has experience working with school aged children. Her clinical interests include speech sound disorders, developmental language disorder, stuttering, literacy, and social communication. Laura takes a client and family centered approach to speech therapy. She believes that therapy should be individualized, engaging, fun, and evidence-based. Laura is honoured to be working alongside the supportive and talented clinicians at Grow.
Laura also works as a school-based SLP and has experience working with school aged children. Her clinical interests include speech sound disorders, developmental language disorder, stuttering, literacy, and social communication. Laura takes a client and family centered approach to speech therapy. She believes that therapy should be individualized, engaging, fun, and evidence-based. Laura is honoured to be working alongside the supportive and talented clinicians at Grow.
Laura NeYESTANI, M.SC. RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Laura completed a Masters of Education in counselling psychology at SFU, where she conducted research on social cognitive development, and a Masters of Science in speech-language pathology at UBC. She is a member of the College of Health Care Professionals of BC. Laura has experience working with preschoolers, school aged children, adolescents and adults, in various settings such as public health, schools, and private clinics. She supports children with their speech sounds, language development including expressive, receptive, and narrative skills, and social communication. Her practice is neurodiversity-affirming. Laura is interested in all things speech and language related, including singing, voice acting, and foreign languages, and she loves to play and read. She focuses on building strong connections with her clients and their families, and making her sessions fun. Laura sees the best in each child, and is honoured to be part of their developmental journey.
LAUREN CIRKO, M.Sc. Rslp- Speech-Language Pathologist
Lauren Completed her Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences. She is a member of the College of Health care Professionals of BC. Lauren has supported individuals in a variety of settings such as early intervention centers, schools, and adult rehabilitation centers. Lauren enjoys working with clients of all ages who have a variety of communication needs in the areas of language, phonology, literacy, social-communication, feeding, and Alternative and Augmentative Communication. Lauren is passionate about providing family-centred care and helping clients reach their communication goals in a fun and motivating environment. In her free time, you may find her baking sweet treats, reading and listening to all kinds of music.
MAElle Le Rudulier, M.Sc., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Maëlle is a bilingual (English and French) Speech-Language Pathologist who received her Masters of Science in speech-language pathology from the University of British Columbia. She holds a linguistics degree and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) certificate from Simon Fraser University. She is a member of the College of Health Care Professionals of BC. Prior to earning her degree, she spent over a decade working with children in diverse settings. Her variety of roles included working as a tutor, theatre teacher, children's camp manager, and academic support specialist. Maëlle has extensive experience working with autistic children and is passionate about supporting children from all backgrounds with diverse communication needs. Her other interests include motor speech disorders such as childhood apraxia of speech, stuttering, and developmental language disorder. Maëlle believes in providing therapy that is fun, engaging, and family-centered to build relationships and support the best outcomes for her clients. She has completed professional development courses in SCERTS and DIRFloortime and is soon to complete the Hanen More than Words program . Outside of her work, Maëlle is an avid reader and enjoys taking long walks by the water or in the forest and listening to a variety of engaging podcasts.
Nicole Ebbutt, M.SC., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Nicole completed her Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences and is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada. Her primary clinical interests include working with preschool, school-age children, and young adults, focusing on expressive/receptive language, narrative skills, early language development, emotional regulation, and self-advocacy. She has experience working with preschool and school-age children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), speech sound differences, and developmental language disorders. She has practicum experience working in schools, child development centers, and Nurture Learning and Development where she gained knowledge about the JASPER (Joint Attention, Symbolic Play, and Emotional Regulation) approach.
As an Autistic and multiply-disabled adult, Nicole is incredibly passionate about working with the neurodivergent community. She recognizes the importance of communicative skills development and acknowledges the need for neurodiverse-affirming therapy methods. Nicole regularly attends trainings and talks aiming to improve SLP services as well as to increase community accessibility for Autistic youth and adults.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys reading and taking walks her neighborhood, saying hi to all the animals she sees along the way.
As an Autistic and multiply-disabled adult, Nicole is incredibly passionate about working with the neurodivergent community. She recognizes the importance of communicative skills development and acknowledges the need for neurodiverse-affirming therapy methods. Nicole regularly attends trainings and talks aiming to improve SLP services as well as to increase community accessibility for Autistic youth and adults.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys reading and taking walks her neighborhood, saying hi to all the animals she sees along the way.
Olivia Ellard, MSC., RSLP- Speech-Language Pathologist
Olivia completed her bachelor’s in Speech Sciences, followed by her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the UBC School of Audiology and Speech Sciences. She is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC and Speech and Audiology Canada.
Olivia has experience working with children and adolescents with a range of communication needs, including in the areas of fluency, motor speech, articulation, language, literacy, early language development and developmental language disorder (DLD). Olivia is a certified Lidcombe provider, a program for children who stutter who are younger than 6 years. She is also a PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets) trained clinician which is an approach for motor speech disorder such as Childhood Apraxia of Speech. Additionally, Olivia has received It Takes Two To Talk® training, an early intervention approach to support young children’s language development. Olivia is also a clinical instructor at the School of Speech Sciences and Audiology at UBC, where she is a Teaching Assistant for the Fluency Disorders course.
Olivia is motivated by her client’s earnest desire to communicate. She is passionate about helping her clients reach their potential and achieve their communication goals though therapy that is individualized, fun, and functional. In her free time, Olivia enjoys staying active, and can be found skiing in the winter and playing tennis in the summer. She is an avid foodie and loves trying new restaurants. Olivia enjoys being part of the Grow Team and providing a family-centered model of care to the clients and families she supports.
Olivia has experience working with children and adolescents with a range of communication needs, including in the areas of fluency, motor speech, articulation, language, literacy, early language development and developmental language disorder (DLD). Olivia is a certified Lidcombe provider, a program for children who stutter who are younger than 6 years. She is also a PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets) trained clinician which is an approach for motor speech disorder such as Childhood Apraxia of Speech. Additionally, Olivia has received It Takes Two To Talk® training, an early intervention approach to support young children’s language development. Olivia is also a clinical instructor at the School of Speech Sciences and Audiology at UBC, where she is a Teaching Assistant for the Fluency Disorders course.
Olivia is motivated by her client’s earnest desire to communicate. She is passionate about helping her clients reach their potential and achieve their communication goals though therapy that is individualized, fun, and functional. In her free time, Olivia enjoys staying active, and can be found skiing in the winter and playing tennis in the summer. She is an avid foodie and loves trying new restaurants. Olivia enjoys being part of the Grow Team and providing a family-centered model of care to the clients and families she supports.
REzWAN KariMI, SLPA- Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Rezwan is a Speech Language Pathology Assistant at Grow. Rezwan completed a Bachelor of English Teaching University degree in her home country and spent five years as a classroom teacher prior to coming to Canada. She is fluent in Farsi, Kurdish, and English. Rezwan earned a TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) certificate from Simon Fraser University.
Rezwan has over 15 years of experience working with children in preschool and school settings. She worked as a Behavioural Interventionist for three years, supporting autistic children of all ages to develop speech sounds, language, executive functions, and social communication. Rezwan has further developed her teaching practices working as an Education Assistant for the last 7 years with children with diverse abilities and needs in local school districts.
Rezwan is enthusiastic about being part of the Grow team. She is eager to contribute her knowledge and experience to her work with children and families at Grow! Rezwan is always well prepared and makes therapy fun, engaging and personalized for her young clients. She is looking forward to continuing to expand her education in the areas of Linguistics of Speech Sciences.
Rezwan enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time outdoors going on nature walks, hiking and camping.
Rezwan has over 15 years of experience working with children in preschool and school settings. She worked as a Behavioural Interventionist for three years, supporting autistic children of all ages to develop speech sounds, language, executive functions, and social communication. Rezwan has further developed her teaching practices working as an Education Assistant for the last 7 years with children with diverse abilities and needs in local school districts.
Rezwan is enthusiastic about being part of the Grow team. She is eager to contribute her knowledge and experience to her work with children and families at Grow! Rezwan is always well prepared and makes therapy fun, engaging and personalized for her young clients. She is looking forward to continuing to expand her education in the areas of Linguistics of Speech Sciences.
Rezwan enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time outdoors going on nature walks, hiking and camping.
Samantha Gryz, SLPA- Speech-Language Pathology ASsistant
Samantha has worked as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant at Grow since 2022. She holds a B.A. in International Development, a Certificate in the Linguistics of Speech Science, and is currently completing a Special Education Diploma.
She hopes to attend graduate school to become a Speech-Language Pathologist, working across the lifespan to empower individuals to share their stories. Samantha is passionate about Total Communication, Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) and evidence-based, inclusive care. When she’s not studying, she loves doing yoga, reading sci-fi, and cooking.
She hopes to attend graduate school to become a Speech-Language Pathologist, working across the lifespan to empower individuals to share their stories. Samantha is passionate about Total Communication, Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) and evidence-based, inclusive care. When she’s not studying, she loves doing yoga, reading sci-fi, and cooking.
SARAH CARTER, M.sc., CCC-SLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Sarah completed her bachelor’s degree in biomedical studies and psychology from UNBC, and her master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders from the University of Alberta in 2017. Having worked in a variety of settings, including in early intervention and in the school district, she has extensive experience with interdisciplinary collaboration, including working in partnership with occupational therapists, physical therapists, audiologists, psychologists, and educators.
Sarah is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC, certified by Speech and Audiology Canada, and is on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP). She specializes in the development of early language, play, and cognition; augmentative and alternative communication (AAC); working with neurodiverse children; developmental language disorders (DLD); literacy; motor speech; and speech sounds. She takes a play-based approach, and has the best games— she’s earned the moniker “The Toy Doctor” from previous clients.
In her spare time, Sarah loves hiking, camping, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, and spending time with her ragdoll cat and miniature doodle: Tom (Selleck) and Finnley.
Sarah is a member of the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC, certified by Speech and Audiology Canada, and is on the Registry of Autism Service Providers (RASP). She specializes in the development of early language, play, and cognition; augmentative and alternative communication (AAC); working with neurodiverse children; developmental language disorders (DLD); literacy; motor speech; and speech sounds. She takes a play-based approach, and has the best games— she’s earned the moniker “The Toy Doctor” from previous clients.
In her spare time, Sarah loves hiking, camping, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, and spending time with her ragdoll cat and miniature doodle: Tom (Selleck) and Finnley.
Shannon Di Iorio, B.Sc., RSLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
Shannon received her Master's of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Alberta in 2007. She is a registered SLP with the College and Health and Care Professionals of BC, and is a member of Speech and Audiology Canada. She has experience in many settings including public health with the 0-5 population, inpatient/outpatient and community rehabilitation for adults with acquired brain injuries, and acute care.
Shannon values client and family-centered care and functional goals that translate to meaningful changes in day-to-day communication. She strives to provide neurodiversity-affirming care. Shannon loves to learn and attends many continuing education courses in order to stay up-to-date with evidence-based practices.
Shannon is a mother of two and knows that being a parent is busy. Any carryover activities need to be realistic within the family environment and be an opportunity for positive parent-child interactions.
Areas of particular interest are acquired communication disorders (e.g. aphasia, dysarthria), voice and developmental language and speech disorders/delays. When she isn't working you might find Shannon at her children's activities, reading, playing tennis or singing in Mom Choir!
Shannon values client and family-centered care and functional goals that translate to meaningful changes in day-to-day communication. She strives to provide neurodiversity-affirming care. Shannon loves to learn and attends many continuing education courses in order to stay up-to-date with evidence-based practices.
Shannon is a mother of two and knows that being a parent is busy. Any carryover activities need to be realistic within the family environment and be an opportunity for positive parent-child interactions.
Areas of particular interest are acquired communication disorders (e.g. aphasia, dysarthria), voice and developmental language and speech disorders/delays. When she isn't working you might find Shannon at her children's activities, reading, playing tennis or singing in Mom Choir!
Sophia Valsamis, SLPA- Speech-Language PathologY aSSISTANT
Sophia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Sciences from UBC. She has over seven years of experience working with children and vulnerable populations in a variety of settings. Her journey began as a program coordinator at an after-school care program, and she is currently working as a behavioural interventionist. Sophia also brings volunteer experience supporting individuals with aphasia.
She has a particular interest in social-communication and is passionate about helping individuals build meaningful, functional connections through communication. Sophia values the profound impact that intervention can have—not only on a child’s development, but on the lives of their families as well. This belief is at the heart of her work, where she strives to create supportive, empowering environments for every child and family she works with. In her free time, Sophia loves to explore new restaurants around the city and enjoys a good ski session in the winter time!!
She has a particular interest in social-communication and is passionate about helping individuals build meaningful, functional connections through communication. Sophia values the profound impact that intervention can have—not only on a child’s development, but on the lives of their families as well. This belief is at the heart of her work, where she strives to create supportive, empowering environments for every child and family she works with. In her free time, Sophia loves to explore new restaurants around the city and enjoys a good ski session in the winter time!!