Makenna Brester
Austin,TX
Summary
Dynamic Speech Language Pathologist with solid reputation for problem-solving abilities, compassion and attention to detail. Always enthusiastic to take on new cases and support patients' speech, swallowing and communication goals through creative and effective treatment planning. Highly personable and productive clinical professional.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist Intern
Powerback Rehabilitation at Parmer Woods ALF
08.2023 - Current
- Evaluate, design and execute appropriate and individualized treatment plans for a variety of diagnoses including, cognitive linguistic disorders, dysphagia, left neglect, dementia, aphasia, dysarthria, Parkinson’s disease, and Traumatic Brain Injury.
- Complete bedside swallowing evaluations, provide dysphagia therapy for rehabilitating swallowing function, and make recommendations for the most appropriate diet consistency for patients’ specific needs.
- Train staff on best practice for assisting residents with dysphasia and communication difficulties.
- Collaborate with rehabilitation team members for directing patient care and discharge planning.
- Educate patients, family, and caregivers to extend continuity of care.
- Effectively document evaluations, treatments and progress reports using computerized system: Net Health
SLP Graduate Clinician
Aveanna Healthcare
01.2023 - 04.2023
- Assessed and treated pediatric clients with articulation disorders, language disorders, feeding disorders, pragmatic difficulties, hearing impairments, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fetal alcohol syndrome, cerebral palsy, Angelman syndrome, velocardiofacial syndrome, and other various medically complex diagnoses in a home health setting.
- Assisted the SLP in providing management of Passy Muir speaking valves for pediatric clients with tracheostomies.
- Utilized ARK Z-Vibe therapy in conjunction with Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation to promote, maintain and/or preserve the physiological integrity of facial muscles and their functional components in collaboration with the SLP.
SLP Graduate Clincian
Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic at TTUHSC
09.2021 - 04.2023
- Utilized ultrasound technology to provide visual biofeedback for a school-aged client with an articulation disorder.
- Conducted teletherapy intervention to implement reading fluency strategies with a child with a specific language learning disability.
- Implemented modified diet protocols, safe swallowing strategies, and clear speech strategies for an adult with dysphagia and dysarthria.
- Provided voice treatment for an adult with Parkinson's Disease utilizing the SPEAK OUT! Program; Counseled client and spouse regarding the importance of at-home breathing exercises (i.e., RMT).
SLP Graduate Clinician
Stroke and Aphasia Recovery Program (STAR)
01.2022 - 12.2022
- Planned and implemented weekly meetings for a group of individuals with aphasia and apraxia secondary to stroke or brain injury.
- Collaborated with clients and family members to implement treatment plans using the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia.
- Implemented low-tech augmentative, alternative communication and supported strategies to improve expressive language, receptive language, and word-finding abilities.
SLP Graduate Clincian
John Montford Unit Psychiatric Hospital
06.2022 - 08.2022
- Treated and assessed communication, cognition, fluency/voice, and swallowing disorders for incarcerated patients requiring short-term and long-term medical care in a high-security environment.
- Provided functional therapy with limited resources in order to adapt, specify and implement treatment plans.
- Assisted clients with tracheostomy care.
- Directed consultation to officers and medical professionals, advising on communication strategies to better accommodate communication needs.
SLP Graduate Clincian
The Garrison Geriatric Education and Care Center
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Managed a 50-resident caseload requiring language, cognitive, and swallowing therapy to promote the rehabilitation of stroke patients and improved quality of life for patients with dementia.
- Screened, assessed, and created treatment plans.
- Informed families and staff about patient progress, treatment recommendations, and training strategies.
- Engaged in co-treatment sessions with physical and occupational therapists.
- Developed and implemented a Montessori based group therapy curriculum for residents with dementia.
Direct Support Professional, CMA
The Eastern Nebraska Human Services Agency (ENCOR)
05.2018 - 07.2022
- Provided direct care to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, fostering activities of daily living while promoting independence.
- Administered medication as directed by physician.
- Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
- Facilitated social outings and community integration activities, promoting inclusion and positive experiences for clients.
Education
Master of Science - Speech-Language Pathology
Texas Tech University Health Science Center
Lubbock, Texas05.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Sciences And Disorders
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota05.2021
Certification
Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, State of Texas
July 2024
ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence
July 2024
Basic Life Support (CPR & AED) Provider
Certificate of Appreciation for Teaching in Interprofessional Education
Certified Supported Conversation for Adults with Aphasia (SCA™) online course
HIPPA Certified
Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP) Certified
Patient Centered Care: Life Participation Approach to Aphasia Knowledge eBadge
SPEAK OUT!® & LOUD Crowd® Student Certification
Timeline
Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist Intern
Powerback Rehabilitation at Parmer Woods ALF
08.2023 - Current
SLP Graduate Clinician
Aveanna Healthcare
01.2023 - 04.2023
SLP Graduate Clincian
John Montford Unit Psychiatric Hospital
06.2022 - 08.2022
SLP Graduate Clincian
The Garrison Geriatric Education and Care Center
05.2022 - 08.2022
SLP Graduate Clinician
Stroke and Aphasia Recovery Program (STAR)
01.2022 - 12.2022
SLP Graduate Clincian
Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic at TTUHSC
09.2021 - 04.2023
Direct Support Professional, CMA
The Eastern Nebraska Human Services Agency (ENCOR)
05.2018 - 07.2022
Master of Science - Speech-Language Pathology
Texas Tech University Health Science Center
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Sciences And Disorders
University of South Dakota