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Does my child need Speech-Language Therapy?

February 9, 2018/in Speech Therapy/by mdmllc

Children who could benefit from our services may display some of the following:

  • Has difficulty sucking on bottle or breast
  • Has difficulty drinking from the bottle or cup
  • Does not tolerate a variety of food or textures
  • Has difficulty chewing
  • Drools excessively
  • Drools from one side of the mouth more than the other
  • Keeps mouth open frequently
  • Screams and/or gestures to get wants or needs
  • Is not saying “mama” or “dada” meaningfully
  • Mispronounces words
  • Has difficulty putting sentences together
  • Has difficulty asking or answering questions
  • Has difficulty following directions
  • Is not reaching developmental milestones
  • Does not play with toys appropriately
  • Has difficulty understanding what they just read
  • Has trouble interacting or keeping up with their peers
  • Is unaware of safety precautions

Our Pediatric Therapists have a passion for children, working to develop each child’s abilities.

Diagnoses and treatments include the following:

  • Feeding/Oral Motor Di?culties
  • Prematurity
  • Developmental Delays
  • Language Delay
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Sensory Processing Disorder
  • Articulation/Phonological Disorders
  • Reading Disorders (Dyslexia)
  • Voice Disorders/Stuttering
  • Genetic Syndromes

Speech-Language Pathologists promote speech/ language and feeding skills through:

  • Breast/bottle feeding intervention
  • Oral motor exercises
  • Feeding intervention
  • Respiratory control
  • Early language development
  • Language/speech development
  • Articulation intervention
  • Augmentative communication
  • Social and Pragmatic interventions

Specialty programs include:

  • NICU Consult/Intervention
  • Beckman Oral Techniques
  • Sensory and Behavioral
  • Feeding Approaches
  • Picture Exchange Communication
  • Augmentative Communication
  • Fluency Programs
  • MORE Program
  • Reading/Dyslexia Programs
https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/speech-language-therapy-brochure-thumb.png 483 845 mdmllc https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/MainLogo.png mdmllc2018-02-09 16:18:392018-02-23 15:12:09Does my child need Speech-Language Therapy?

Tongue Thrust Disorder

February 9, 2018/in Speech Therapy/by mdmllc

My child sticks out his tongue when he swallows. Why?

Your child may have a condition known as tongue thrust. Tongue thrust is the common name for a disorder in which a person pushes his tongue against or between his teeth during a swallow. Tongue thrust can affect children, adolescents, and adults.

What causes tongue thrust?

Some of the most common causes of tongue thrust include infant feeding difficulties, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, sucking on thumbs or fingers, mouth breathing or other genetic factors, such as abnormal dentition.

How can I tell the difference between a normal swallow and an incorrect swallow?

A normal swallow includes precise movements of the tongue, teeth and facial muscles. In a normal swallow, the tongue tip is raised to a spot behind the front teeth. The rest of the tongue is pushed up against the roof of the mouth, trapping food and liquids. The back teeth are together, and the swallow is accomplished without tensing of the facial muscles.

Any deviation from this is an incorrect swallow.

What clinical procedures are done to diagnose tongue thrust?

A trained speech-language pathologist (SLP) examines the child’s oral structures and tongue positioning during rest, swallowing and speech. The SLP also performs a case history to see if any associated oral behaviors are present.

How is tongue thrust treated?

Therapy for tongue thrust is divided up into 12 lessons. The first five lessons are used to train the different muscles of the swallow to obtain the correct resting pattern and placement. Lessons six and seven teach the child how the correct swallow is performed. The last four lessons teach the child how to make the normal swallow a habit.

How long does treatment last?

The first eight lessons take place once per week for 30 minutes. The last four lessons take place every two weeks. After the 12 lessons are completed, the child should be seen every 3-6 months for two years. At the end of the treatment, if the child is still producing articulation errors, additional speech sessions may be recommended.

https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/tongue_thrust_disorder-pediatric_therapy_services_blog.jpg 501 750 mdmllc https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/MainLogo.png mdmllc2018-02-09 16:17:452018-02-09 16:17:45Tongue Thrust Disorder

Gift Ideas to Promote Speech and Language

February 9, 2018/in Speech Therapy/by mdmllc

The holidays are just around the corner!  One of our speech-language pathologists compiled a list of books and toys that would make great gifts and also help to promote speech and language development.

Books to Promote Speech and Language

  • No No Yes Yes by Leslie Patricelli
    A fun and simple book for toddlers about appropriate behaviors (Draw on the wall? No! Draw on the paper? Yes!); targets problem solving and answering yes/no questions
  • Rumble in the Jungle by Giles Andreae, David Wojtowycz
    A collection of rhyming poems for children 3 and up about jungle animals; targets rhyming skills and animal vocabulary
  • Shake, Rattle & Roll by Ken & Potter Keith Fulk
    A colorful book for older preschoolers that combines computer illustrations with nature photography to show the creatures demonstrating various actions such as ‘climb’ ‘dig’ and ‘eat’; targets action vocabulary
  • We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Helen Oxenbury, Michael Rosen
    This is a classic book for children ages 4-8 that has a repetitive reading sequence, allowing children to remember and retell the story; targets sequencing of actions
  • The Splendid Spotted Snake: A Magic Ribbon Book by Alexander Wilensky, Betty Schwartz
    A great book for children 3 and up, this book incorporates a sturdy, polka-dotted cotton ribbon to make the snake grow bigger and spots change color with each turn of a page; targets articulation of /s/ sound and color vocabulary
  • Hooway for Wodney Wat by Helen Lester, Lynn Munsinger
    This one is appropriate for ages 4-8, this book follows the transformation of a shy rodent with a speech impediment to hero of the class; targets articulation of /r/ sound and is an ego booster for any child that has been bullied or teased

 Games and Toys to Promote Speech and Language

  • Shopping List Memory Game
    A 2-4 player game for children ages 3-7; be the first one to race around the store and collect all the groceries on your shopping list; targets memory skills and food vocabulary
  • Elephant’s Trunk
    A 2-4 player game for ages 4+ years with no reading required;  help the elephant pack by placing a piece of clothing into the matching colored trunk; targets clothing and color vocabulary
  • Educational Insights Laundry Jumble Game
    A game for 4-15 year olds; using only your sense of touch, reach inside the dryer to find the animal’s missing clothing item on your card; targets clothing vocabulary and counting
  • Zingo! Sight Words
    This one is for pre-kindergarten to 2nd grade, this game combines the fun of Bingo with learning to recognize important, commonly used words; targets sight words
  • Aquadoodle
    A fun toy for ages 2+ that allows children to draw and doodle with water without making a mess; encourages creative play
  • Puzzles
    Check recommended age range when selecting a puzzle; also consider a puzzle that will expose new vocabulary (i.e. objects, animals, shapes, letters)
  • Mr. Potato Head
    Classic activity for ages 2 and up, this popular toy targets body parts and clothing vocabulary

Also check out this website recommended by one of our parents: www.fatbraintoys.com.  They have a great search engine to find the perfect gift. You can search by gender, age, price, categories (books, games, puzzles, etc.), and interests (dinosaurs, fairy tales, science).

https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/MainLogo.png 0 0 mdmllc https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/MainLogo.png mdmllc2018-02-09 16:16:462018-02-09 16:16:46Gift Ideas to Promote Speech and Language

Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists Discuss Best Gifts for Sensory Development

February 9, 2018/in News, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy/by mdmllc

It’s that time of year again, when we get to celebrate all our blessings throughout the year. Holiday season is a fun time to enjoy and show love to our family and friends. This time can be so stressful to find the JUST RIGHT gift for our little blessings with varying talents.

We have developed a list of fun games and toys to match your little blessings’ wishes and talents:

 

Gross Motor or Movement Toys

toys-for-gross-motor-movement-physical-therapy-brandon-flPush toys or kid shopping carts: These are motivating for children learning to walk or children who seek heavy work through pushing objects. Developmental age 12 months and up.

Radio Flyer Cyclone Cruiser: Great for children at the developmental age of 3 years or higher, who have full sitting balance and can play without stabilizing their hands on the floor, who may not be ready balance wise for a bike. 75lbs weight limit

Sensory Toys

Kinetic sand: This is perfect for kids who love messy play. Developmental age 2 years and up. This sand-like material molds and sticks together similar to playdough but feels like sand.

Tents or Cranium Super Fort Building set: A great, fun escape for a child who is overstimulated by their environment. Developmental age 3 years and older.

 

 

Fine Motor Toys

Perler beads: Small beads that you can place on boards to form different art projects, shapes, or patterns. Appropriate for children with a developmental age of at least 5 years old, who do not place objects in their mouth.

Scratch N’ Color: A great way to incorporate drawing and tool use without having to do writing. Kids can draw pictures on black paper using a small wooden dowel that scratches off to reveal colors underneath. Appropriate for developmental ages 5 years and older.

Bath time squeeze toys or cups: Practice pouring and squeezing during bath time. Developmental age 2 years and older. Be sure your child can sit upright or is fully supported when incorporating fine motor play during bath time.

ball-drop-game-for-babies-develops-sensory-skillsBusy Ball Drop: Working on grasp/ release with your child? Get a toy that is visually fun when a child releases the ball into it. Add a toy hammer, and you just included tool use in the fun.

Legos or building blocks: They make all sizes and types depending upon your child’s developmental age and if they place objects in their mouths. You can start your child with Mega blocks around the developmental age of 11 months.

Oral Motor

Include bubbles and all kinds of whistles as stocking stuffers. These are great to improve your child’s breath control, work on deep breathing, blowing, and possibly decrease oral sensitivities.

Play/Social/Games

Dress up medical kits: Your children have so many medical appointments; allow playtime to include doctor play and dress up to help decrease anxiety during these times as they begin to understand more about what doctors/nurses do.

Spot It!, Blokus, Rush Hour Jr, Head Bandz, Tapple, Mouse Match, Scatterpillar Scrabble, Diggity Dog, Don’t Break the Ice: All games for children with a developmental age of at least 4 years. Some rules may have to be adapted depending upon your child’s level. All of these games are easily adaptable.

 

The Physical Therapy Services team would love to discuss these and other ideas with you as the shopping season comes upon us. Also, see our Gift Giving Guide located in the lobby of both of our clinics for more ideas.

Our hope is for this season of giving and love to be full of enjoyment and peace

https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/one-year-old-playing-with-motor-sensory-toy_physical-therapy-services.jpg 691 1037 mdmllc https://ptsbeyourbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/MainLogo.png mdmllc2018-02-09 15:55:562018-02-09 16:08:04Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists Discuss Best Gifts for Sensory Development

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THAT TRULY CARES ABOUT YOUR CHILD AND YOUR FAMILY?

If you are interested in enrolling your child in the intensive strengthening program at PTS, please utilize the links below to complete the intake documents. Once your intake documents are received, you will receive a phone call to screen your child for the program as well as discuss scheduling. If you have any questions, please call (813) 662-1060.

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Brandon Location
P : (813) 662-1060
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P : (863) 802-3800
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Services

Quality Therapy Specifically For Children

Occupational Therapy
Physical Therapy
Speech Therapy
Therasuit Method®
Feeding Therapy

About PTS

Learn About Us
Our Accepted Insurance
Open Positions

Contact Us

Brandon Location
P : (813) 662-1060
F : (813) 662-0530

Lakeland Location
P : (863) 802-3800
F : (863) 802-0480

© Copyright – Pediatric Therapy Services
Terms & Conditions | Copyright Notice | Privacy Policy
Website Designed by: MaximizeDigital.com

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STEPHANIE LEE
MS OT, OTR/L

Hi, I’m Stephanie! I was born and raised in New York and made the exciting move to Florida in March 2025. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion & Wellness from Farmingdale State College on Long Island in 2022, and later completed my Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Iona University in Westchester, NY. My journey into Occupational Therapy began during a time of soul searching, as I looked for a career that blended my passion for both physical and mental health. While I’ve always been driven to help people live their fullest, most meaningful lives, it wasn’t until my final fieldwork placement at Elizabeth Seton Children’s Hospital that I discovered my love for pediatrics. That experience opened my heart to the incredible impact OT can have on children—and I’ve been hooked ever since! I truly believe that every child has the potential to live a full, beautiful life. Sometimes, they just need a little extra support to get there—and that’s where I can help light the way. Outside of work, you can usually find me soaking up the sun at the beach with my loved ones, hiking through nature with my dog, or flowing through a yoga session to reset and recharge.

RAECHEL KILBURN
Director of Clinical Operations

As a Marketing and Business Development Professional, Raechel has a passion for building strong, purpose-driven teams. Her strategic mindset and collaborative spirit have helped organizations grow while staying true to their core mission. Outside of work, she enjoys being active and spending quality time with her husband, their two children, and their dog.

JASSIMINE RIVERA
Patient Accounts Coordinator

Jassimine has a history of working in pediatrics. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her kids and exploring new places.

KRISTINA PEREZ
OTR/L

Kristina is a University of South Florida alumnus who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2012. She then earned her Masters of Occupational Therapy at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2015. She is a bilingual therapist who has been working in the pediatric field since 2016, doing her utmost to provide the best quality of care to the children and families she serves. Kristina has been formally trained in the Learning Without Tears handwriting program and AEIOU Feeding intervention. Outside of work, Kristina enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, being outdoors, discovering new music, and traveling.

JEN AUCHTER
Office Manager

Jen is a graduate of West Virginia University and holds a degree in Sociology and Anthropology. After college she spent several years as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. She came to work at PTS after seeing what wonderful services they provided to one of her own children, and believes wholeheartedly in helping kids “be their best!” Jen enjoys spending time with her family and lots of outdoor activities in the Florida sunshine.

MARIA BUSHMAN
MA, CCC-SLP

Maria earned her bachelor’s degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences with a minor in Psychology from Purdue University. She then earned her Master’s degree from Miami University (Ohio). Maria is passionate about helping individuals of all ages improve their communication skills. She also believes in personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, empowering clients to find their voice and reach their full potential. Outside of work, Maria can be found curled up with her dog and a good book.

GAIL PARRIS
Reception & Scheduling

Gail joined the PTS team in 2007. Gail balances the many demands of the front desk while greeting families, children and staff with warmth and respect. She offers nurturing to everyone, growing the family concept that PTS strives for. Gail enjoys her interactions with children, families, and staff. She has learned so much from her interactions with the therapists and finds their jobs fascinating. Outside of her clinic, Gail enjoys being with her family and friends.

ELISE TASICH
OTR/L

Elise earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication and a Master of Occupational Therapy from Eastern Michigan University. She has experience with outpatient therapy for both pediatric and adult populations within a traumatic brain injury rehab, though her passion has always been to work with children. Elise aims to cultivate a caring and fun setting to help all children achieve their full potential to engage in their daily activities. Outside of the office, Elise enjoys being outdoors, going to Disney and Universal, traveling, and spending time with her friends, family, and cat!

CARLY PALKOVICH
OTD, OTR/L

Carly is originally from Sarasota, Florida. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Florida and her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Gannon University. While attending the University of Florida, Carly taught adaptive swim lessons, and through this, realized her greatest passion is to help children live their most meaningful lives. Outside the clinic, Carly enjoys swimming, reading, watching Gator football, and spending time with friends and family.

ABIGAIL KUBASKY
MS, CCC-SLP

Abbie earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2022 and Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2024 from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Abbie discovered her love for working with pediatrics after having a clinical internship with medically fragile children with speech, language, and feeding needs. Her goal as an SLP is to alter her treatment style to meet the child’s needs and provide them with functional communication in a variety of settings. She has a passion for working with children with AAC and enjoys doing feeding therapy as well. Outside of PTS, Abbie enjoys spending time at the beach, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, and shopping.

SARA JIMENEZ-BRUCE
OTR/L

Sara is a bilingual therapist originally from Colombia. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida International University in Miami, FL, and went on to complete her Master’s in Occupational Therapy at the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos, CA. Passionate about working with children, Sara is dedicated to helping them reach their fullest potential, supporting their growth and development. She has received specialized training in the SOS Approach to Feeding Therapy, as she enjoys using a gentle and sensory approach to help children with feeding issues. Outside of work, Sara enjoys spending time with her family on walks, reading, and baking delicious treats.

EMIE PENAFIEL
MA CCC-SLP

Emie received her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Science in 2007 and Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from The Ohio State University in 2009. Go Buckeyes! Emie has been a PTS team member since September 2009. Her areas of interest include early language development, alternative and augmentative communication, and literacy. In her free time, Emie enjoys running, watching movies, reading, and playing with her cat, Marlowe.

CAITLYN FARRELL
PT, DPT

Caitlyn earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Caitlyn’s passion is to assist children of various ages and diagnoses meet their developmental goals and promote independence. She loves collaborating with the OT’s and SLP’s at PTS to provide the most effective treatment for her patients. When Caitlyn is not working she loves to explore the beaches, restaurants, and scenery of Tampa with her friends and family.

BISSAN MUSTAFA
PT, DPT

Bissan earned her bachelors in Psychology and Health Sciences degree from the University of South Florida. She then earned her Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami. Bissan is deeply passionate about helping children reach their full potential, both physically and developmentally. Bissan enjoys the ability to make a lasting impact on a child’s quality of life. She is passionate about empowering children to move, explore, and play without limitations. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends/family, traveling, and exploring various coffee shops, and outdoor activities.

JOSIE KALBAUGH
SLP-CF

Josie received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland and her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of South Florida. She has always wanted to work with pediatrics and has experience in a variety of different settings from her time as a graduate student. She enjoys working together with families and is passionate about helping children reach their communication goals! In her free time, Josie enjoys traveling, reading, running, and going to the beach.

CASSIDY KUDJA
BS SLPA

I graduated from the University of South Florida and obtained my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Communication Sciences and Disorders. It’s always been a dream to pursue this career, and to help kids who have the same difficulties as I had as a young child. My passion and drive are to pursue more school and receive my master’s in Speech Pathology in the near future. I enjoy creating a fun based environment for all my children during our sessions and building a connection with each and every one of them, and providing insight and tips that can be used at home. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my daughter and 2 dogs, spending time with family in Miami, or traveling.

TIFFANY COX
PTA

Tiffany is a PTA who received her degree from Polk State College. Her plans for the near future are to continue her education and receive her DPT. She was drawn to physical therapy due to receiving it at PTS when she was a teen. She has always wanted to work in pediatrics and has over 5 years of experience. She also has experience with adults. She believes that physical therapy is not only physical, however, emotional as well. She loves to be creative in her sessions and make work fun. She loves connecting with her patients and helping to push them to reach their goals one step at a time. Outside of the clinic, she loves to spend time with her family and be active with them, always on the move!

ASHLEY ENGLAND
PT, DPT

Ashley earned her Bachelors of Exercise Science from Illinois State, and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Bradley University. Ashley has experience working with the pediatric population in private practice and acute care settings. She also has adult experience in acute care neurology and orthopedics. Ashley’s approach to therapy changes with every patient and she prides herself on the adaptability of her treatment sessions with the ability to change it based on the patient. Outside the clinic, Ashley enjoys paddle boarding, watching hockey, spending time and the beach and traveling with family and friends.

BRIAR MAYS
MS, CCC-SLP

Briar earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Georgia Southern University-Armstrong and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Central Missouri. Briar is passionate about helping children reach their goals and grow in their communication abilities. Her areas of interest include Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Phonological Disorders, and Alternative and Augmentative Communication. Briar is trained in Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing related to the treatment of apraxia. Outside of the clinic, Briar enjoys spending time with her pets and significant other, reading, watching hockey and baseball, and traveling.

CRYSTAL NAVAS
BILLING DEPARTMENT:
Director of Authorizations

Crystal graduated her Medical Assistant Program from American College in 2019 and obtained her Phlebotomist license in September 2021 from the National Medical Certification Board. She is currently attending FTC Lakeland to earn her Bachelor’s in Health Management. Crystal joined the PTS team in December 2021. She is always very happy, energetic and works tirelessly to make sure both her rehab tech and front office duties are accomplished. Outside of the clinic, Crystal enjoys spending time with her fiancé traveling, going to the gym, spoiling their fur baby Casey, executing house projects, and loves going to the beach to see the sunset.

DIANA RIVA
OTR/L, CO-Owner

Diana received her Bachelors of Health Science in 2004 and Masters of Occupational Therapy from the University of Florida in 2005. She has been a part of the PTS team since 2006. Diana is certified in Sensory Integration techniques and in the administration of the SIPT. She also received her certification in the TheraSuit Method in 2015. She shares her pediatric knowledge by mentoring future Occupational Therapists. Diana enjoys cheering on the Gators and the Lightning and playing outside with her children on sunny Florida weekends.

GRAHAM KILBURN
President

Graham has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration/ Financial Management from Florida Southern College. He has worked with PTS since 2005. Graham enjoys cooking, reading, outdoor activities, spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and playing with his children!

KAREN COWAN
Office Manager

Karen has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration Degree with a concentration in Healthcare Administration. She graduated from Strayer University in 2017. She recently joined PTS and has over 30 years billing and insurance experience. Karen enjoys golf, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

KENZIE DODD
MEd, SLP

Kenzie graduated from Valdosta State University with a Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She knew it was her passion to be working with pediatrics and has experience working with children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her goal is to expand her knowledge of working with children who have feeding difficulties. Kenzie enjoys working alongside an interdisciplinary team and involving the clients and their families to create a treatment plan that best fits each individual child. Kenzie is from McDonough, Georgia and in her free time she enjoys traveling, hiking, watching sports, and spending time with her two dogs (Morrigan and Blaze).

NIKKI GATHWRIGHT
MS CCC-SLP

Nikki graduated from Florida State University with a Master of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Nikki has worked in a variety of pediatric settings and has been with PTS since 2002. Nikki specializes in treating all different types of children with language/feeding disorders. She enjoys helping families become successful through her guidance with bottle and breast feeding. Nikki believes that by working together the family, child and therapy team will be successful. Nikki shares her knowledge and experiences through mentoring as a clinical supervisor for SLP’s during their clinical fellowship year. Nikki enjoys reading, movies and all dogs.

SHELBY WITHERSPOON
CCC-SLP

Shelby earned a Masters of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Valdosta State University. She has always wanted to work with the pediatric population and gained experience with pediatrics through her clinical experience during graduate school. She has a passion for working with early language delays, speech sound disorders, and children with autism. In her free time, Shelby enjoys cooking, reading books, and watching tv shows.

STEPHANIE KING
COTA/L

Hi, I’m Stephanie! I graduated from St. Katherine University as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in 2023. After completing my internship with PTS I joined the team in July after passing my board exam. I am originally from Chicago, IL, and moved to the Tampa area in 2021. Before becoming a COTA I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as well as other pediatric units for 5+ years. I have always had a passion for the pediatric community and helping tiny humans learn and grow to their fullest! I am passionate about using play, crafts, and sensory to help children reach their goals to have a brighter and fulfilled future. When I am not at work I enjoy reading, being outside or near the water, watching golf and football (Go Bears), and being around those I love!

TAYLOR TELLES
BILLING DEPARTMENT:
Director of Billing & Patient Accounts

Taylor is a Lakeland native that joined us at PTS in February 2022 as a Scheduling Coordinator and is now the Director of Billing. She is learning new things every day about the company and works diligently to help where she can! She is very excited to continue growing with the company and seeing all of your children’s smiling faces as they come in! Taylor enjoys watching her son play T-Ball and wrestling, going to comedy shows, reading, and spending time with family.

MARIA RODRIGUEZ
MOT, OTR/L

Maria earned her Bachelor of Health Sciences from the University of Southern Florida in 2018 and a Master of Occupational Therapy from AdventHealth University in 2021. She is passionate and dedicated to working with the pediatric population to achieve their highest level of independence. Maria is a bilingual occupational therapist and enjoys having the privilege to communicate with both English and Spanish families to address the concerns and needs of their child. During Maria’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, watching the sunset at the beach, reading, and traveling.

DOMENICA DEMEYERE
MA, CCC-SLP

Domenica earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Language Pathology from Western Michigan University in 2019, and a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Eastern Michigan University in 2021. She has enjoyed working with the pediatric population ever since having teaching and administrative positions in childcare and learning center environments. Domenica’s goal in speech-language therapy is to make it functional and fun in order to engage the whole family. When not at PTS, Domenica enjoys spending time outside, exploring new restaurants, beaches, and hiking trails, as well as sending postcards to her family in Michigan!

ZAHRAA KHAN
MS, CCC-SLP

Zahraa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2017 and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2019 from the University of South Florida. She joined PTS in September 2019. Zahraa has wanted to work with the pediatric population since her undergraduate years and continued to gain experience in the setting through her clinical fieldwork in graduate school. She enjoys working with a variety of language, fluency, and speech disorders. Zahraa enjoys painting, photography, going to the beach, and spending time with her family and friends.

SARA PENNO
CCC-SLP

Sara earned her bachelor’s degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI and graduated with her Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. She recently made her move to the Sunshine State and loves being a part of the PTS team! She enjoys working with and treating kids of all ages and has a passion for development of language through song and play. She loves to explore her new city of Tampa, read, bake sweet treats, and kayak!

HILLARY HOLT
OTD, OTR/L

Hillary is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Thiel College in Greenville, PA and completed her Occupational Therapy Doctorate at Gannon University in Ruskin, FL. As a beneficiary of occupational therapy as an infant, Hillary’s greatest desire is to pay it forward to her patients by helping them reach their fullest potential. In her free time, Hillary enjoys going to the beach, spending time with her husband and cat, and cheering on the black and gold!

MELANIE GARRISON
COTA/L

Melanie started her PTS journey in 2018 as an office assistant. She continues her journey at PTS as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA). Melanie graduated from South University in Tampa as an Occupational Therapist Assistant in 2021. Melanie enjoys working with the pediatric population and is passionate about helping children reach their full potential in functional performance and skills. In her free time she enjoys outdoor activities, exercising and spending time with her daughter, family, and friends.

JENNIFER HARGIS
PT, DPT

Jennifer (Jeni) discovered her passion for helping those living with a disability when she was in elementary school and became best friends with her peers who were disabled. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Kinetic from Warner Pacific College in 1999. She then earned her Doctoral degree from the University of Puget Sound in Physical Therapy 2005. She was trained in the TheraSuit method in 2006 and enrolled in the MNRI Core Specialist Training Program in 2018. She ensures that kiddos work very hard in PT, but also have fun and enjoy getting stronger! She has worked with a wide variety of rare diagnoses and likes the challenge that comes with complex neurological diagnoses. Her family moved to Florida in March of 2023, from Oregon. When she is not at PTS, she enjoys spending time with her family, working-out, crafting, and exploring the many beaches and attractions Florida has to offer.

ERICA WINTERS
MS CCC-SLP

Erica graduated from the University of South Florida with a Master of Science Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Erica has been working as a Speech Language Pathologist since 2012 and has experienced in the charter school setting, nursing home setting and the private practice setting. Erica is currently certified by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. Erica enjoys treating a variety of children with various diagnoses. Erica utilizes a holistic approach when treating her patients and incorporates techniques from other disciplines whenever possible. Erica has a passion for helping others and truly enjoys working with the pediatric population. As a native Floridian, she enjoys activities such as boating, exercising, photography, spending time with family and attending sporting events.