- Promote the development of social pragmatic skills and real-world application through the Adventurelore program
- Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders through the Girls on the Run Program and Fearlessly Kind Girls initiative
Sarah Townsend MS CCC-SLP
DOVER,NH
Summary
Skilled communication specialist with over 25 years of expertise in diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders. Adept at developing individualized treatment plans and working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Reliable, adaptable, and results-driven, with proficiency in assessment techniques, therapeutic interventions, and patient education. Recognized for strong interpersonal skills and genuine commitment to enhancing client communication abilities.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Speech & Language Pathologist/Team Leader
Williams Bridge Academy
Rye, NH
09.2011 - Current
- Conduct diagnostic assessments and develop individualized therapy plans to optimize student outcomes while addressing the evolving needs of WBA's neurodiverse population.
- Facilitate the development of communication skills through language-based, multi-sensory, and student-led therapies, which enhance student engagement and participation.
- Collaborate with educators and parents to provide comprehensive support for students.
- Utilize evidence-based and scientifically validated techniques to effectively address speech and language disorders.
- Meticulously track progress to ensure observable advancements in communication abilities.
- Partner with teachers to create holistic, thematic language-based curricula that enhance students' language skills across all academic areas.
- Introduce innovative, evidence-based therapy techniques and technologies to improve student communication skills.
- Lead staff training sessions and professional development initiatives on various programs and strategies aimed at addressing diverse communication needs.
- Promote the development of pragmatic skills and real-world application through the Adventurelore program.
- Publish a quarterly newsletter led by students for WBA students, staff, and families.
Self- Employed Speech and Language Pathologist/Consultant
Oyster River PEP Program, Barrington Preschool Program, Oyster River High School, Nottingham, and Nashua
New Hampshire
09.2004 - 06.2011
- Conducted diagnostic evaluations and developed and implemented Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students ranging from preschool through high school.
- Delivered a diverse array of service models, including inclusion, co-teaching, co-treatment, small group instruction, pull-out services, and consultation.
- Created and implemented a life skills program tailored for students with developmental delays.
- Designed and programmed Augmentative and Alternating Communication (AAC) devices.
- Facilitated in-service training for teachers and staff on the special education process and speech and language disorders.
- Contributed to the Autism Task Force and Literacy Team initiatives.
- Supervised graduate interns specializing in communication disorders and Speech-Language Assistants (SLA).
Program Coordinator/Speech & Language Pathologist
Nottingham School
Nottingham, NH
09.1999 - 06.2004
- Created comprehensive curriculum for summer program "Camp Conversation" to enhance social skills and communication in children with autism spectrum disorder and related challenges.
- Partnered with behavioral specialist and occupational therapist to develop and execute a curriculum focused on improving communication and pragmatic skills through targeted therapy techniques.
- Facilitated therapy sessions within an inclusionary framework to support diverse client needs.
Education
Master of Science - Communication Disorders
University of New Hampshire
Durham, NH05-1999
Bachelor of Arts - Dual English Literature And Japanese Studies
St. Michael's College
Colchester, VT05-1996
Skills
- Patient centered intervention
- Comprehensive diagnostic assessments
- LLD Specific diagnostic intervention
- Evidence-informed decision-making
- Methods for fostering neurodivergent inclusion
- Executive functioning therapies
- Literacy development
- Collaboration and teamwork
Certification
- ASHA# 12018947
- NH License # 760
- ME License # SP3567
- MA License # SLP77593
Affiliations
- American Speech Language & Hearing Association since 1999
- Member of the New Hampshire Speech, Language, and Hearing Association
- NHSLHA Vice President of Membership, 2005-2007
Accomplishments
- American Speech, Language and Hearing Association Award for Continuing Education, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2022, 2024
- NHSLHA Better Speech and Hearing Month Grant, April 2005
- NHSLHA Professional Development Grant, April 2002
Interests
Timeline
Speech & Language Pathologist/Team Leader
Williams Bridge Academy
09.2011 - Current
Self- Employed Speech and Language Pathologist/Consultant
Oyster River PEP Program, Barrington Preschool Program, Oyster River High School, Nottingham, and Nashua
09.2004 - 06.2011
Program Coordinator/Speech & Language Pathologist
Nottingham School
09.1999 - 06.2004
Master of Science - Communication Disorders
University of New Hampshire
Bachelor of Arts - Dual English Literature And Japanese Studies
St. Michael's College