Laura M. Holtan, MS, CCC-SLP

I am a Vermont State and New York State-licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, and I hold a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). I have over 10 years of combined classroom and clinical experience.

My interest in speech-language pathology developed by working in home, classroom, and community settings with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and Down syndrome. In moving on to such acute settings as hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, my interest grew, especially when I was introduced to the difficulties of communication for individuals with acquired speech and language disorders and swallowing difficulties. This experience across a spectrum of populations and disorders has provided me with insight into the importance of speech-language pathology for both patients and their loved ones.

I have an interest and an expertise in evaluating and treating swallowing disorders (dysphagia) in adults. I have experience in performing, assessing, and evaluating Videofluoroscopic Studies (also known as Modified Barium Swallows) for both inpatients and outpatients, and provide counseling patients and family members about diet and treatment plans, always keeping the patient’s quality of life as the primary consideration.

I also have clinical experience working with adults, adolescents, and children with speech and language disorders. I provide services to individuals with acquired disorders (such as strokes and traumatic brain injuries) and progressive neurogenic disorders (such as Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and various forms of dementia). I am a strong advocate for patient-centered care, and I strive to help individuals develop effective communication skills.

I received my B.S.Ed. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and hold an M.S. in communicative disorders from Teachers College, Columbia University. I am a certified therapist in Lee Silverman Voice Therapy (LSVT)-LOUD, and hold a certificate in Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBS-IMP).