Compassionate and Resourceful Communication Specialist

Maria K.

Be heard for what you have to say, not for how you say it! I believe that your accent and speaking patterns are an important part of your story, but should be a part of your story that you control. Whether you are overcoming a speech impediment or refining your accented English, my aim is to help you to speak clearly and confidently.

Since earning my Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2013, I have provided individual and group speech and language services to students spanning from pre-school to postdoc. The same year, I also began teaching English as a second language as a volunteer. For the past five years, I worked on staff for a non-profit as a program facilitator, training and mentoring volunteers to teach English language and pronunciation.

Aside from my professional experience, I know the joys and struggles of homeschooling four incredible kids in a bilingual household. Along the way, I have learned a thing or two about neurodivergence :)

I have learned that every student has a unique way of learning which is reflected in my multi-sensory feedback approach. I believe pronunciation is more than just isolated sounds; it includes complex patterns of melody, stress, and intonation, which are not usually included in a standard class setting. I love opening students' eyes and ears to these unwritten "rules" that unlock the secrets of spoken English. Our time together will focus on equipping you with these tools so that you can then continue to train yourself in your communication journey.

While I have experience teaching sounds across the English language, I specialize in American vowels (easily overlooked, but truly the "heartbeat" of every word!) as well as helping older students who are still struggling with that stubborn R.

Please reach out soon so we can make a plan to help you become more confident in what you have to say!