What's in a name?
Vlinder is Dutch for 'butterfly'. One family I worked with long ago thanked me with butterfly-themed items along with an analogy. This family felt that their loved one had been "trapped" in a cocoon by his inability to effectively communicate. Through therapy sessions with me he had learned communication strategies and skills that helped "transform" him into a beautiful butterfly with new wings on which to 'fly through life'.
Their words were very touching and have stayed with me through the years. The ability to communicate effectively is powerful!
Cassandra ("Casey") Stafford, SLP
I graduated with my Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Syracuse University, and have over 20 years experience. I have worked in private clinics, a state residential habilitation facility, public schools, and in private practice. As an SLP and Assistive Technology Professional, I have a special interest in augmentative/alternative communication (AAC).
I have extensive experience working with children and adults with a variety of diagnoses; from autism, cerebral palsy, cognitive impairment and other developmental disabilities, to speech, language and learning delays and disorders. This work experience has given me a passion for providing compassionate and innovative service to individuals of all backgrounds and abilities.
I have attended numerous continuing education courses that continue to shape the way I approach evaluations and therapy sessions. I use treatment methods including: PROMPT (trained) and Lindamood-Bell programs among others, adapting any technique as needed to meet individual client needs.