Kelli Dame, MS, CCC-SLP
Helping Children Find Their Voice
I chose pediatric speech-language pathology because there is nothing more rewarding than helping children find their voice, build confidence, and develop the communication, feeding, and literacy skills that shape their future. Supporting families during these early years and celebrating every milestone—from a child's first words to becoming a confident reader—is what inspires me every day.
I love working with children from birth to age five who are struggling to communicate their wants and needs, children with feeding challenges, and school-aged children with reading difficulties.
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Areas of Specialty
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Early language development (birth to 5)
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Speech and language delays
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Feeding therapy
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Reading and literacy
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AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
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Oral motor and orofacial myology
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Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing (LIPS)
I have completed several courses in the use and implementation of AAC devices and continue to expand my training in oral motor skills related to feeding and orofacial myology. I am also trained in the Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing (LIPS) program for reading, spelling, and speech.
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If You're Wondering Whether Your Child Needs Speech Therapy…
Many parents call because their child isn't talking or communicating the way an older sibling or cousin did at the same age. Others notice their child becoming frustrated because family and friends can't understand them. Sometimes it's an older child who is struggling with reading and beginning to lose confidence in school.
Many families have already tried the "wait and see" approach, spent extra time talking and playing with their child at home, or hoped reading instruction alone would be enough. When those concerns continue, parents are often looking for answers, guidance, and a plan that fits their child.
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What Your First Visit Will Look Like
During our first session, we'll talk about your goals and make sure we're targeting the areas that matter most to your family.
Then I'll spend time building rapport with your child while discovering what motivates them, keeps them engaged, and helps them learn best. Every child is different, and building that relationship is an important first step toward successful therapy.
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The Moments That Matter Most
Some of my favorite moments happen outside the therapy room.
Parents tell me their child said "I love you" for the first time, started using family members' names at home, or is confidently using new words and phrases in the community. Grandparents tell them they could finally understand an entire conversation with their grandchild. Older children tell me they feel more confident reading out loud in class. Those everyday victories are the moments we celebrate together.
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Working Together as a Team
Many parents tell me they aren't sure how to use everyday play to support their child's communication development, and they sometimes hesitate to ask for help. There are no bad questions. One of my favorite parts of therapy is coaching families with practical, play-based strategies they can naturally use throughout everyday routines. Parents and caregivers are an essential part of their child's progress, and I want every family to leave feeling confident about how they can support communication at home.
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Outside the Clinic
When I'm not in the therapy room, you'll most likely find me spending time with my husband, taking long walks with our dog, Beau, making memories with my five wonderful nieces and nephews, traveling, or relaxing with a great book.
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You Know Your Child Best
If you're unsure whether to reach out, trust your instincts.
You know your child better than anyone. My role is to partner with you, answer your questions, educate, and guide you through your child's therapy journey.
Addressing concerns early can reduce future challenges, build confidence, and support success at home, in school, and in social settings. Early intervention isn't just about reaching developmental milestones—it's about giving every child the opportunity to communicate, learn, and connect with the world around them while giving families the tools and confidence to support their child's growth every step of the way.
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