Carol A. Briggs, M.S., CCC-SLP

carol.briggs@abilitiesinfo.com

Carol Briggs, founder and administrator of Abilities, has dedicated the last 22 years to serving the needs of families in the Baton Rouge Community. Carol received her Masters in Communication Disorders from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1981. After working three years in the Mississippi public school system and home health, she relocated to Baton Rouge where she continued to work with the developmentally disabled through various agencies. In late 1986, Carol began Abilities. Carol's commitment to excellence and her dedication to her staff as well as the families they treat continue to provide the foundation for Abilities. She continually brings new intervention techniques to the Baton Rouge area, allowing parents to have choices in treatment approaches. Carol currently provides training and support to staff speech pathologists and occupational therapists, fostering excellence in their treatment skills.

With extensive continuing education, Carol has treated children with a variety of disorders. While the majority of her training is in Autism intervention, Carol has participated in training for oral motor intervention, augmentative communication, apraxia intervention, auditory processing, and sensory integration. Carol has particular interest in Autism Spectrum Disorders and continues to gain continuing education in this area allowing her to mentor to staff therapists and students. Carol has presented on numerous occasions locally, regionally and nationally over the past 20 years. Topics of presentation have included augmentative communication and treatment for Autism.

Carol has been awarded the ACE (Award of Continuing Education) twice from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association for her extensive continuing education. In 1998, she was awarded The John E. Robinson Award from the Louisiana Speech-Language-Hearing Association for Outstanding clinical contributions to the field of Speech Language Pathology. She was named Who's Who Among Executives and Professionals in 1998. Carol is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the Louisiana Speech and Hearing Association.

Melanie Carr, NRCMA

melanie.carr@abilitiesinfo.com

Melanie Carr, Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant, joined the Abilities staff in 2001. After working as a free-lance licensed Interior Designer for 25 years, Melanie dedicated herself to pursuing a career as a Medical Assistant. She graduated from Medical Training College in Baton Rouge with her certification. Melanie currently holds the position of Business Office Coordinator, where she assists both our clients and our staff. Melanie focuses her specialization on billing and insurance. She is dedicated to her new career and approaches her work with efficiency and attention to detail.

Tammy Wallis

tammy.wallis@abilitiesinfo.com

Tammy Wallis joined the staff of Abilities in May 2004 as an Administrative Assistant. Tammy's organizational skills lend support throughout the office. Her consistency keeps our staff projects moving forward. Tammy graduated from Louisiana State University with a B.S. degree in Special Education. She was a teacher in East Baton Rouge Public School System for seven years where the taught Severe and Profoundly handicapped elementary Special Education students. Her compassion and her experience, both as a special educator and mother, bring a valuable perspective to our Abilities team.

Amy Arledge, M.A., CCC-SLP

amy.arledge@abilitiesinfo.com

Amy Arledge joined Abilities in January, 1999. She holds a B.A. degree from Louisiana State University and an M.A. degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Northeast Louisiana University. Prior to moving to Baton Rouge, Amy worked as an SLP in the Richland Parish School System in Rayville, LA. Amy is a certified Fast Forward® provider, incorporating phonemic awareness intervention into her treatment of children with auditory processing impairments who are also at risk for reading disorders. Amy has had continuing education training in oral motor assessment and intervention which she uses extensively with the children she treats. Amy is also trained in the use of PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System). Amy enjoys using the augmentative/ alternative training package with autistic and apraxic children on her caseload to initiate conversation and communication of wants and needs.

Perhaps Amy's most rewarding professional activity has been the development of the Social Language Skills Group Program offered at Abilities. Amy has utilized her unique skills to develop sequential, engaging, appropriate, and highly meaningful social skills- enhanced activities that can be utilized with a wide range of age groups. She has adapted these activities for typically developing children as well as those with Asperger's and Down Syndrome. The children participating in Amy's Social Language Skills Groups come away with skills that can have a truly positive impact on their lives.

Barbara Germany, M.A., CCC-SLP

barbara.germany@abilitiesinfo.com

Barbara Germany was the first staff Speech-Language Pathologist to join Abilities in 1987. She holds a B.A. degree in Speech-Language-Hearing Specialty from Southeastern Louisiana University and an M.A. degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Louisiana State University. Barbara has participated in extensive continuing education which has earned her two ACE awards (Award of Continuing Education) from the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association for her achievements.

Barbara's extensive training includes the assessment and intervention of oral motor and articulation disorders, auditory processing deficits, and reading/language/writing deficits. She is trained in the Lindamood® Phoneme Sequencing Program (LiPS) and uses these principles successfully in our Making Sense of Sounds program to treat children with reading and writing deficits. Barbara is also trained in the Picture Exchange Communication System.

Barbara initiated our in-school therapy delivery service model and developed our School Speech, Language and Hearing Screening program. She has developed an extensive networking system in the schools by providing information to teachers and administrators and coordinating each child's therapy program with their classroom demands.

Lacie M. Robichaux, MS, CFY-SLP

lacie.mitchell@abilitiesinfo.com

Lacie M. Robichaux joined Abilities in January, 2007. She holds a B.A. degree in speech-language pathology from Louisiana State University and a M.S. degree in speech-language pathology from Southeastern Louisiana University. Lacie is a member of the Louisiana Speech-Language Hearing Association (LSHA) and the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). She has experience working with children of all ages in a variety of settings which include preschools, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. Lacie has a special interest in promoting early literacy skills and educating caregivers on the importance of incorporating nursery rhymes, songs, and reading into their child's daily routine. Lacie's other interests include assessment and remediation of language learning delays/disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, and childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). She strongly believes that early intervention and parent education are of utmost importance in the remediation of speech and language disorders. She goes above and beyond to meet the needs of the children she treats and offers their families much support. Her overall treatment style exudes excitement, involving the children in fun and meaningful activities.

Judy Moock, M.A., CCC-SLP

judy.moock@abilitiesinfo.com

Judy began her association with Abilities in 1996 while still working as a full-time SLP in the Ascension Parish Public School System. Since that time, Judy has retired from the school system with 20 years of service, twelve of which were served as a Pupil Appraisal team member. Holding both B.S. and M.A. degrees in Speech-Language Pathology from LSU, Judy brought to Abilities a wealth of Knowledge on dyslexia, Language-Learning Disabilities, phonemic awareness and written language assessment and intervention. She is a member of the International Dyslexia Association. Judy is also certified as a Fast ForWord® provider and has had training in oral motor assessment and intervention techniques. An intense interest in language-based reading disorders led Judy to training in the Lindamood® Phoneme Sequencing Program (LiPS) which she has utilized to develop the "Making Sense of Sounds for Reading and Spelling" program plus level 2 of "Ready, Set, Write!" program for written language offered exclusively at Abilities. Judy's strong diagnostic skills and her insatiable thirst to learn more about the nature of communication disorders add up to true success for the children she treats.

Margaret Reed, M.A. CCC-SLP

margaret.reed@abilitiesinfo.com

Margaret Reed holds both B.A. and M.A. degrees in Speech-Language Pathology from Louisiana State University. Prior to joining the staff at Abilities in 1995, she worked as an SLP at Gonzales Primary School and the Baton Rouge Speech and Hearing Foundation serving the pediatric population. Margaret's work at Abilities has focused on preschool children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders. She has developed our Adaptive Response Training program which is an individualized program to assist children with carryover of skills gained in therapy to other settings. Margaret is deeply concerned about the functional use of communication for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Margaret has obtained extensive training in Autistic Spectrum Disorders, apraxia, oral motor, feeding disorders and Fluency disorders. She is certified in Fast ForWord®, Interactive Metronome® and is trained in the use of the (PECS) Picture Exchange Communication System. Margaret goes beyond the therapy room and shows genuine dedication to her clients and their families.

Lilias Adele Sebastien, M.A. CFY-SLP

adele.sebastien@abilitiesinfo.com

Lilias 'Adele' Sebastien joined the Abilities staff in June 2007. Adele received both a B.A. and M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from Louisiana Tech University. She is a member of the American Speech and Hearing Association. Adele has experience working with children of all ages in a variety of settings including their homes, preschools, and daycare facilities. Adele enjoys working with children who have articulation and phonological disorders, language disorders, as well as children on the Autism Spectrum. Adele has received additional training in Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) and dysphagia. Adele has a strong desire to expand her clinical skills and knowledge, especially in the areas of oral-motor therapy, hearing impairments, and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Adele is motivated by the team approach used at Abilities. She is an active promoter of early intervention and remediation of speech-language disorders. Adele is a friendly, engaging therapist who treats every child as a unique individual. She brings enthusiasm and energy to every therapy session.

Stacy Corder, MHS, LOTR

stacy.corder@abilitiesinfo.com

Stacy Corder joined the Abilities staff in 2001. She holds a B.S. degree in Occupational Therapy from LSU Health Sciences Center and a Master of Health Sciences degree (M.H.S.) from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Stacy is certified to administer and interpret the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT). Stacy utilizes sensory integration techniques for children and adults 2-40 years of age.

Stacy partnered with Judy Moock, M.A., CCC-SLP to create Abilities' unique, multidisciplinary program for the treatment of dysgraphia. “Ready, Set, Write” offers two levels of intervention for children who have been diagnosed with dysgraphia or struggle with handwriting and written expression. Stacy is trained in the Handwriting Without Tears® technique and also uses the Loops and Other Groups program. She provides handwriting intervention for children 4-17 years of age at Abilities, as well as in the school setting. Stacy is also trained to implement the PECS – Picture Exchange Communication System.

Stacy is a Certified Interactive Metronome® (IM) provider. She has presented locally and regionally on the use of IM in clinical settings, including techniques to modify IM for children and adults with Sensory Processing Disorder. Stacy has presented several national teleconferences concerning the benefits and use of IM with pediatric populations. In April 2004, OT Practice magazine published Stacy's case study detailing one of her client's success stories through IM training. Upon the request of the IM corporation, Stacy recently developed a continuing education course to be offered nationally.

Stacy is a frequent speaker in Baton Rouge area private schools and preschools on a variety of developmental topics, including fine motor skills, handwriting, and sensory processing. Stacy's tendency to go above and beyond for her clients reflects her passion and dedication to children.

Amy Fuselier, LOTR

amy.fuselier@abilitiesinfo.com

Amy Fuselier piloted the occupational therapy program at Abilities for Speech and Language in 2000. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in 1995 from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Amy is certified to administer and interpret the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT) and has had extensive training in the evaluation and treatment of Sensory Processing Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Prior to joining ASL, Amy worked in an outpatient pediatric hospital setting where she treated children with cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, Autism, and Fragile X Syndrome. Amy currently specializes in treating children ages 2-21 with Sensory Processing Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Developmental Delay.

Amy is a certified Interactive Metronome® Provider and is trained in Handwriting Without Tears and Loops and Other Groups writing programs. Amy is also trained in the use of PECS- Picture Exchange Communication System and Therapeutic Listening. She has incorporated the How Does Your Engine Run? The Alert Program for Self-Regulation in individual and group settings, as well.

Amy has presented locally and regionally on topics including use of a team approach for evaluating and treating children with sensory, language, and learning difficulties, using innovative therapy approaches and technology in the treatment of children with Sensory Processing Disorders, and handwriting remediation. In addition, Amy works closely with parents and teachers by providing on-going in services and consultation related to fine-motor skill development, handwriting, and sensory processing for carryover of learned skills at home and in the classroom.

Amy's holistic, team approach strongly influences her ability to create positive changes in the lives of the children she treats.

Jill Pipsair, MOT, LOTR

jill.pipsair@abilitiesinfo.com

Jill Pipsair joined the Abilities staff in May 2007. She holds a B.S. degree in Psychology from Louisiana State University and a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Jill has experience working with adults and children with various diagnoses. Jill has a special interest in working with young children. She believes that early intervention and education of parents and teachers, for carryover of learned skills at home and in the classroom, is the most important component in a child's success.

Jill is a certified Interactive Metronome (IM) provider and has worked with children and adults to help to improve accuracy, timing, motor planning, attention, and focus. Jill plans to pursue additional training for certification in Sensory Integration including administration of the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT), treatment of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Therapeutic Listening.

Jill's love for children and commitment to ongoing education reflect her overall dedication and passion. She is fun, enthusiastic, and devoted to involving the children in fun, meaningful activities which will help to develop overall skills related to academic performance, self care, play and social interaction. Helping to develop these skills will promote independence and self-confidence to allow the child to excel at home, school and to build meaningful relationships with family and peers.

Kelly Reynolds, LOTR

kelly.reynolds@abilitiesinfo.com

Kelly Reynolds joined Abilities in January 2007. She is a graduate of Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans where she earned a B.S. in Occupational Therapy. Prior to joining Abilities, Kelly worked for 4 years at an outpatient pediatric clinic in Killeen, Texas. During that time, she gained experience treating children with autism, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADD/ADHD, and developmental delay. Kelly is skilled in evaluating children with a variety of diagnoses and providing intervention for dysgraphia, sensory processing disorders, fine motor skills and visual-motor integration. Her therapy techniques utilize a sensory integrative approach to foster a child's developmental skills, sensory processing, and overall ability to succeed at home, school, and in the community. Kelly's continuing education includes courses on sensory integration techniques and strategies, handwriting evaluation and remediation, neuro-developmental treatment (NDT), pediatric splinting and assistive technology. Kelly's strengths lie in the positive attitude she brings to each therapy session and her strong ability to engage with a child on his or her level in an interactive, purposeful way.

Ky Burke, M.S.W., Certified Special Education Teacher

kyburkel@abilitiesinfo.com

Ky Burke joined Abilities in June 2007. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a specialization in Creative Arts Therapy from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. She earned a Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) Degree from Louisiana State University. Ky has completed the Teach Baton Rouge Practitioner Program and is a certified Special Education Teacher. Ky has experience with individuals whose physical and cognitive disabilities range from mild to profound. She has worked as an art therapist in a medical setting and as a medical social worker and case manager in physical rehabilitation hospitals. Ky previously taught preschool at the Community Cooperative Nursery School in Baton Rouge. The program served as a teaching model for L.S.U. students due to its child-centered, developmentally appropriate teaching approach. Ky's most recent experience is in the East Baton Rouge School System teaching elementary students with disabilities ranging from mild/moderate.

Ky chose the field of special education because of her own experience as a parent of two children, one of which is gifted and the other who struggles with the challenges of a learning disability. Her experience taught her that every child is unique and has special gifts. She sees her role as a guide to help students and families find creative ways to approach education to meet each child's individual needs. Ky's goals are to help each child become a motivated learner and reach his or her greatest potential.

Aubrey Guedry

aubreyguedry@abilitiesinfo.com

Aubrey joined the Abilities staff in 2007 as the Preschool Assistant. Aubrey has 8 years of experience working with preschool-aged children. She taught children at Broadmoor Baptist Church's Early Learning Center, where she also organized and planned summer camp activities, created a preschool library, and created multi-sensory lesson plans for the children. Aubrey attended Southeastern Louisiana University. She continues to gain advanced knowledge in child development through continuing education coursework. Aubrey loves working in early intervention and brings such enthusiasm and compassion to the children she works with. She is truly a hands-on teacher and makes each activity a true joy for all children.

Mona Hayden, M.A.

mona.haydenl@abilitiesinfo.com

Mona Hayden joined the Abilities staff in 2007. She has been a teacher for 20 years, spending her the last 13 years at the Dunham School. Mona earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English with minors in Journalism and French and an Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education. She holds certifications in secondary English and English as a Second Language, based on a multi-sensory approach to learning. Mona has additional training in learning process disorders, dyslexia and other reading disorders, attention deficit strategizing. She has trained in the Schools Attuned model with additional training to come throughout the year. She is also a board member of The B.R. Christian Children’s Foundation, through which she volunteers to help children and adults with learning needs borne of deprivation.

Angela Mitchell, M Ed.

angela.mitchell@abilitiesinfo.com

Angela Mitchell joined the Abilities staff in January of 2007 as the Preschool and Academic Program Coordinator.  She holds a Masters of Education in Special Education degree from Southeastern Louisiana University.  Angela previously taught in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System for 6 ½ years, serving mild/moderately disabled students. She has experience working with children who have various disabilities in multiple settings. Angela is excited to be a member of the Abilities’ team, especially in working closely with the Abilities’ therapists to develop unique plans and programs for each child. Angela provides individualized educational services to children of all ages using fun, multi-sensory techniques to promote skill acquisition, learning, readiness, and mastery.  She is very happy to bring her experience to Abilities and looks forward to learning more about Autism Spectrum Disorders and Sensory Integration techniques. In addition to teaching the Aim for Success preschool, Angela provides individual Academic Instruction as well. She plans, develops, and coordinates academic groups year-round. Angela’s ultimate goal is to foster a love of learning in all children.

Shaugnessy Noland

shaugnessy.noland@abilitiesinfo.com

Shaughnessy joined the Abilities staff in July 2007 as a teacher's assistant. She attended Louisiana Tech University, where she took coursework in the Child Life Specialist/Early Education curriculum. Shaugnessy previously worked at Our Lady of the Lake, where she led therapeutic groups and facilitated social interaction between patients. Shaughnessy also has experience in home health and private practice settings. She has worked one-on-one with children on the Autism Spectrum in school and community settings. Areas of intervention included educational training for language and literacy development and social skills training. She has experience in the educational setting through working in nurseries and child development centers. Shaugnessy volunteers for the Special Olympics and is involved with community youth programs. She is an asset to the Abilities team and brings a smile to the faces of the children she works with.