Lauren Nelson

Accomplished Speech-Language Pathologist with over 11 years of experience in pediatric therapy. Extensive experience with implementing skilled treatment and driving impactful communication strategies to improve student outcomes in one of the nation's most diverse school districts.

• Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) – ASHA
• Alaska State License – Speech-Language Pathology
• CPR & First Aid Certified
• PROMPT Trained Therapist
• Hanen Certified ("It Takes Two to Talk," "More than Words," and "Talkability" Programs)
• Qualified CAS therapist - included in the Apraxia Kids therapist directory

• Collaborated with a small multidisciplinary team to develop Better Together: Cotreating with Purpose, a presentation for the department of Related Services.
• Increased efficiency and impact of speech/language screening and intervention process within my school.
• Utilized Google Slides to develop engaging and effective communication treatment sessions for larger groups of students with complex needs.
• Collaborated with a group of other selected speech/language staff as part of an advisory committee to effect positive student outcomes across the Anchorage School District. Specific focus has been on improving student access to their least restrictive environment through improved collaboration with teachers and effective classroom interventions.
• Participated as a therapist in a camp providing intensive treatment to children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech with Apraxia Dallas.
• Developed a caregiver questionnaire for All for Kids Pediatric clinic that all disciplines now use to effectively receive updates and input from their clients' families that are vital to developing comprehensive plans of care.

I have lived and worked in Alaska for my entire career. However, I grew up in PA, and my family will be relocating to Pittsburgh in August, 2026. I am, therefore, seeking positions in Pittsburgh, PA to start in August of this year.

My husband and I have 2 young children and a precocious husky to wrangle, love, and learn with. As a family, we enjoy traveling, playing games, and spending time together. I strive to maintain a healthy work life balance so that I can most effectively make a difference for my students as well as be a solid support for my own children.

Becoming a parent myself has strengthened my ability to work with the parents and families of my students. Navigating developmental delays and treatment with my own children has given me invaluable insight when developing home programs and recommending home-based supports. None of us is just one person - our families shape our lives and we shape theirs. A child's communication disorder impacts much more than just them as an individual, and they are so much more than the communication challenges that I'm treating. I strive to keep this whole picture in mind when developing treatment plans, making recommendations, and collaborating with others who provide their care.