Elizabeth Dunn, M.S. CCC-SLP-Lead Therapist/Owner of The Speech Spot: A Therapist Spotlight

Why did you open The Speech Spot?

I started The Speech Spot in 2014 because I saw a need in the St. Louis area for a private practice that offered evening and after school hours for busy families. My research indicated that individuals living in the City of St. Louis had very few options for private therapy services within the city limits. Since opening our doors, we have serviced families from all over the St. Louis area, but find that many of our clients live within the city limits and have an appreciation for our location. Additionally, The Speech Spot has become a place where my clients not only receive therapy, but build relationships. Several families have kept in touch even after graduation to update me on special events or to grab an ice cream! These relationships mean the world to me and are the true measure of success.

Do you have any areas of special interest?

While I really do enjoy all aspects of speech therapy, I particularly enjoy working with children who have a severe speech sound disorder. Whether it be Apraxia or a phonological disorder, the more unintelligible the better. I also enjoy working on early language skills, dyslexia-like reading disorders, and social skills.

What's your favorite part about being a speech therapist?

Nothing beats the look on a child's face when they are pronouncing a sound wrong and you teach them, for the first time to say it correctly. They are often amazed with themselves! I also love when parents come to me with the concern that their child isn't talking, and they leave telling me that their child won't STOP talking!

What are your favorite children's books?

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie series, The Day the Crayons Quite, There's an Alligator Under My Bed, Caps for Sale, Dr. Seuss

Lightening round....

Harry Potter or Disney?

Disney

Beach or Mountains?

Mountains

Sweet or Salty?

Too hard to pick, BOTH!

Starbucks, all day! or Coffee, no way!

Starbucks, not all day though, just the morning!

When you aren't in the therapy room, what keeps you busy?

My husband and I have a 2 year old daughter that keeps us on our toes! I am a BIG Kansas basketball fan, so come March you can find me glued to the NCAA tournament. Rock Chalk! I also enjoy baking, yoga, traveling, running, and reading.