Cari is the Executive Director of Skill Builders. She received her bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders from The State University of New York at Geneseo and earned her master’s degree at The George Washington University. She has extensive experience working with children with a variety of disorders. She especially enjoyed working with young children in a co-treatment model with occupational therapists because this gives the child the opportunity to improve their skills across multiple modalities.

Cari’s experience working in public schools and a private school for children with learning and social-emotional challenges has proved invaluable in helping the parents of her clients navigate the special education maze and obtain the most appropriate services available for their child.

Although Cari does not currently have a caseload of her own, she enjoys the directorial role so that she may assist families with guidance for appropriate services, therapist matching, school placements, and general advice that will allow the family to work to achieve their own goals for their children. Although she misses treating children on a regular basis, she is happy to act as an impetus for therapeutic intervention and still performs speech/language screenings each year. On the weekends and in her spare time, you can find Cari cheering on her son and daughter at basketball games and gymnastics meets, exercising, reading, and enjoying snuggle time with her beagle/retriever mix.

Amanda received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Health and Rehabilitative Sciences. Amanda initially became interested in the field of Speech-Language Pathology when her mother suffered a stroke at a young age. Amanda has observed firsthand the impact of a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation and believes in working closely with families and other professionals to help clients achieve their goals.

Amanda has extensive experience in assessment and intervention in the areas of speech sound production, stuttering, social cognition/language, and is passionate about supporting children with complex communication needs in the use of a variety of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. Since February 2018, Amanda has been recognized as a LAMP Certified Professional through the Center for AAC & Autism. Additionally, she has participated in many advanced AAC training and learning opportunities, such as attendance at the Pittsburgh AAC Language Seminar Series (PALSS), and volunteering at the ICAN Talk AAC Camp in Pittsburgh for two summers. Amanda has also completed the AAC for Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs) course from Meaningful Speech. In addition to private practice, Amanda has years of experience working in a public school system in Northern Virginia. She feels confident helping families advocate for their child’s speech-language needs and services in the school setting, and better understand and prepare for IEP meetings. Amanda has participated in formal training for many therapeutic programs, including the PROMPT Technique, Oral Placement Therapy, Social Thinking, DIR Floortime, and the P.L.A.Y. Project. In the spring of 2024, Amanda was invited to participate in a Leadership and Advocacy Academy through JMU/SHAV to further develop her skills as an effective leader, communicator, and advocate. In July 2024, Amanda completed the Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) Advanced Training Workshop with Edythe Strand Ph.D. through the Once Upon a Time Foundation. Given Amanda’s experience with CAS, she is listed in the SLP directories for the organizations Apraxia Kids and Child Apraxia Treatment. Amanda has received Awards for Continuing Education (ACE) from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) multiple years of her career (2016, 2018, and 2024). Additionally, Amanda is co-director of Skill Builders’ Camp SuperNOVA therapeutic summer camp program, and has been in this role since 2018.

Amanda was recognized as one of Alexandria’s ‘40 under 40’ by The Chamber ALX in July 2022. In her free time, Amanda enjoys teaching Pilates, leading a neighborhood run club, cheering on Pittsburgh sports, and spending time with her husband, son, and pup.

Jane received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders from The University of Wisconsin – Madison and received her master’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences at The University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. Jane has worked at Skill Builders since 2008, and she also has experience in schools and in early intervention. Jane previously managed Skill Builders – North Carolina, and now provides teletherapy services for families living in NC. She is available for in-person therapy in Northern Virginia.

Jane specializes in the use of augmentative and alternative communication systems, including high tech systems such as Unity, LAMP Words for Life, Speak for Yourself, TD Snap, and TouchChat with WordPower. Jane is a LAMP Certified Professional. She feels that helping non-speaking individuals communicate is the most rewarding part of her job.

Additionally, Jane is experienced in the assessment and treatment of motor speech disorders, including Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). She has completed the Introduction to PROMPT and Bridging PROMPT Technique to Intervention workshops, and she is experienced in the use of Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC). Ms. Bomba is a CASANA-listed SLP.  She also treats individuals, from toddlerhood through adulthood, who present with articulation and phonological disorders, cleft palate, expressive receptive language disorders, Auditory Processing Disorder, developmental delays, Autism, Down syndrome, chromosomal abnormalities, and pragmatic language differences. Jane has completed training in The DIR-Floortime Model, The Affect-Based Language Curriculum, P.L.A.Y. Project, and the Social Thinking Curriculum. She is experienced in the use of the Zones of Regulation program. Jane is a GLP + AAC trained clinician and is skilled at implementing the NLA framework. Jane is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist with a warm, family-oriented approach. She is available for therapy, evaluations, AAC consultations, and staff training.

Amy received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders from the University of Kentucky and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Redlands. She has worked in a wide range of settings, including in-home early intervention, early childhood special education, elementary school self-contained programs, pediatric rehabilitation units, university clinic, and private practice. She has worked with children from toddlers to young adults.

Amy specializes in Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC). She is a Board Certified Specialist in Children Language (ABCLLD), a LAMP Certified Professional, a LAMP Educator for the Center for AAC and Autism, and is a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP). She has taught a graduate course on AAC and has guest lectured and presented widely on AAC and language development in AAC users. She especially enjoys training parents and families to incorporate AAC into daily routines, and has led parent support groups specifically for parents of AAC users. She has extensive experience evaluating and implementing AAC for individuals with complex communication needs. Additionally, Amy has advanced training on severe speech sound disorders and has completed several advanced courses on assessment and treatment of Childhood Apraxia of Speech.

Amy is an active member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and is a member of ASHA’s Special Interest Groups 1 (Language, Learning, and Education) and 12 (AAC). Amy loves all things French, travel, and spending time outdoors.

Magdalena received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Denver. She worked for a number of years on various research projects and contributed to the research and analysis of the development of language, speech, cognition and the social-emotional development of abused and neglected children, children with seizure disorders, stroke and cystic fibrosis. She received her master’s degree in Communication Science Disorders from the University of Pittsburgh.

Magdalena has worked at a pediatric rehabilitation hospital outpatient clinic in Pittsburghwith children presenting with a variety of disorders and syndromes. Magdalena enjoys taking a holistic approach to therapy and treating the child and family as a whole unit. Her interests are in Assisted and Augmentative Communication and language processing disorders. Magdalena has completed the PROMPT level 1 training and Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking course. She runs several groups at Skill Builders and enjoys helping kids improve their overall social skills.

Magdalena is a mother of two who enjoys baking, spending time with her family and dancing in the living room with her two little ones.

Sophie graduated with her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from The George Washington University. Prior to attending GWU, Sophie received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami in Florida where she studied psychology and linguistic anthropology. During graduate school, Sophie gained experience with both pediatric and adult populations through internships at KIPP DC Charter Schools, her university clinic, and other local private practices. These experiences solidified her lifelong passion for helping children learn and grow! Since joining the team at Skill Builders, Sophie has participated in various trainings including DIR/Floortime and Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP). 

Sophie was born and raised in the Philadelphia suburbs, and now lives in Arlington with her husband and their two cats, Apollo and Artemis. In her free time, she likes to explore local coffee shops, go on walks, and do all sorts of crafty activities like crocheting, sewing, and coloring.

Mayleigh received her Masters of Education in Speech-Language Pathology from The University of Virginia after earning her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from James Madison University. She was born in Colorado and later raised in Virginia. After living in Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, and the DMV, she decided it was time to try something new and move down to Florida to be by the beach! She is currently offering teletherapy for Skill Builders clients.

Mayleigh has experience working with both pediatric and adult clients in a variety of settings including public school, boarding school, bilingual charter school, private practice, and skilled nursing facilities. She has experience with the following disorder areas: social communication, Autism Spectrum Disorder, articulation disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders, cognitive disorders, swallowing disorders, feeding disorders, and augmentative/alternative communication. Mayleigh greatly values a holistic approach, as well as functional,collaborative therapy in order to provide the most effective results possible for each of her clients.

In her free time, Mayleigh enjoys going to the beach to enjoy the sunshine, water and sea creatures, reading, taking her dog Cooper on long walks, and spending time with family and friends.

Angela received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Science Disorders and Psychology at Saint Mary’s College (Notre Dame, Indiana) and received her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center (Lubbock, Texas). She was born and raised on the southern border of Texas and can hold a basic conversation in Spanish.

Angela has experience working with pediatric clients in both Texas and Virginia schools, private outpatient clinics, and hospital outpatient clinics. She has collaborated with occupational therapists, physical therapists, doctors, nurses, special education teachers, psychologists, social workers, and ABA therapists. Angela previously worked for Fairfax County Public Schools for five years, making hers knowledgeable in collaborating with school teams. She has received training in many areas, including alternative augmentative communication (Words for Life, Proloquo), LAMP, and ABA. Angela has received eight Awards for Continuing Education (ACE) by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). In addition, Angela is PROMPT Trained, an SOS Trained Feeding Therapist, and a Proficient DIRFloortime provider through the International Council on Development and Learning (ICDL). She is currently working towards becoming an Advanced DIRFloortime provider. 

On the weekends, you can usually find Angela at a park with her daughter and son, working out, doing arts/crafts, or hanging out with family and friends.

Chelsea is originally from Maryland. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminology from the University of Maryland. She received her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from George Washington University. She has gained experience working in outpatient clinics, public, and private schools with the pediatric population in both individual  and group settings. Chelsea completed her Clinical Fellowship with Skill Builders and has been here ever since. Chelsea has loved working with children of all ages and skills, and has enjoyed working collaboratively with other professionals, including special education teachers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, ABA, and psychologists.

Chelsea has current experience in assessment and treatment of clients with receptive/expressive language delays/disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, social-pragmatic communication differences, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, developmental delays, and fluency disorders. Chelsea also has experience working with clients with complex communication needs who utilize augmentation and alternative communication (AAC) systems. She loves incorporating play into therapy and working closely with families to meet a child’s individual needs. She has participated in several specialized trainings including DIR/FloorTime, the Play Project, Social Thinking, Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP), PROMPT, and Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC).

In her free time, Chelsea enjoys spending time with her friends and family, taking yoga classes, traveling, and exploring the D.C. area. She loves finding new restaurants, museums, and fun things to do in the city.

Allison received her Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Science with a concentration in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Delaware and her Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Radford University. She was born and raised in Maryland. After living in Roanoke, VA, and Colorado, she decided it was time to move back to the DMV!

Allison has experience working with pediatric clients in both outpatient and private practice settings with a focus on expressive and receptive language disorders, fluency, Autism Spectrum Disorders, articulation disorders, social communication disorders and augmentative/alternative communication. Allison greatly values collaborating with fellow team members and families to discuss, strategize, and implement care delivery strategies in order to provide the best therapy for her clients.

In her spare time, Allison enjoys reading, taking her dog Charlie on long walks, and spending time with family and friends.

Pam is originally from the Hudson Valley area of New York. She received her bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the State University of New York, New Paltz and received her master’s degree in Communication Disorders at the College of St. Rose in Albany, New York. Pam also earned an Endorsement degree in Education Administration at the University of Virginia.

Pam initially became interested in the field of Speech-Language Pathology in her early college years when her grandmother began having mini strokes. Each episode impacted her grandmother’s ability to speak and eat solid foods for short periods of time. At that time, her mother’s friend was a Speech Pathologist who took her under her wing and introduced her to this field. Since Pam has always loved children, she decided to combine her two passions and primarily work with children.

Pam began her career at a private school in New York that specialized in educating students with special needs, primarily autism spectrum disorders. She then began working in her hometown school district servicing children with a variety of speech and language disorders. In addition to working part time for Skill Builders, Pam is currently a full-time employee of the Fairfax County Public School system. She has received specialty training in many areas, including PROMPT and ABA and is an Interactive Metronome certified provider.

On the weekends, you can usually find Pam working out and spending time with her family.

Michael is a Lead Speech-Language Pathologist at Skill Builders LLC. He sees children and adults individually both in the McLean clinic and through tele-therapy both nationally and internationally.

Michael earned his bachelor’s in Developmental Psychology from George Mason University. He worked with a variety of populations and ages in group homes, vocational training programs, skilled nursing facilities, and early intervention programs before becoming Executive Director for a group of early childhood education programs in New Hampshire. He attended the University of New Hampshire to earn his master’s in Communication Disorders and then the Antioch New England University to earn an advanced Masters Certificate in Autism. He worked as an SLP with New England school districts for ten years, working with all grade levels including early intervention. He coordinated the Speech Language Pathology Assistant programs for New Hampshire, teaching courses and setting-up internships within public schools. He is currently earning his Certification as an Oral Facial Myologist (COM) with the IAOM.

Michael has recently focused his advanced training in the areas of auditory processing, feeding, and oral myofunctional therapies. He is a member of IAOM (International Association of Orofacial Myology), the AOMT (Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy), and IGAPS (International Guild of Auditory Processing Specialists). He is the coordinator of the Sleep and Airway Group of the DMV.

He has been trained in Beckman Advanced Massage, CranioSacral massage, and Kinesiology taping, as well as IAOM, AOMT, Neuro-Developmental, Progressive Oral Sensory-Motor, Marshalla Oral-Motor, Boshart Oral-Motor, TalkTools, MORE, and PROMPT therapies. 

Michael has also completed advanced trainings in feeding therapy, including SOS Advanced, AEIOU, Mealtime, TalkTools, Dynamic Feeding, and Picky Eaters & Problem Feeders approaches.

Additionally, Michael is certified in Therapeutic Listening/Vital Links, Interactive Metronome, CapDots. Acoustic Pioneer, and SoundStorm auditory process programs, along with a variety of Lindamood-Bell programs. He has trained with audiologists Drs. Jack Katz (Buffalo Model), Jay Lucker, Larry Medwetsky, Frank Musiek, Carol Lau, Matt Barker, Kavita Kaul, Christa Reeves, and others.

Michael prefers to take a holistic approach in the clinic, observing and determining how functional skills are being affected by any underlying concerns, and determining how addressing more foundational concerns (primitive reflex integration, sensory processing, neurodevelopmental processing, early motor movement patterns, etc.) can improve quality of life. 

In his free time, Michael enjoys traveling with his children and grandchildren, especially to National Parks and Disney parks.

Thais graduated with her master’s degree in Communication Science and Disorders from Florida State University. Prior to attending FSU, Thais received her bachelor’s degree from University of Central Florida in Orlando and went on to work as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) for five years at a pediatric private practice in Naples, Florida. She gained experience working with young children and adolescents with varying disabilities, but she found a special interest in early intervention and parent coaching.

Thais completed her final graduate internship at Skill Builders before joining the team in 2023. She has participated in various trainings such as DIR/Floortime, PROMPT, Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP), and Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC). Thais enjoys bringing a play-based approach to her therapy sessions.

Thais is originally from São Paulo, Brazil and moved to Florida with her family at a young age. She speaks fluent Portuguese. In her free time, she enjoys FaceTiming her nephew, listening to podcasts, taking workout classes, and exploring the D.C. area.

Elizabeth has been a member of the Skill Builders team since 2009 and has since been named a Lead Speech-Language Pathologist-Early Childhood and Parenting Specialist. She grew up in Arlington, Virginia, and received her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Gallaudet University, after earning a bachelor’s degree in Developmental Psychology from the University of South Carolina. While pursuing her degrees, Elizabeth gained experience in both private practice and medical settings focusing primarily on children, ages birth to five. Elizabeth specializes in early childhood development, and has a passion for guiding parents through the process of early intervention. She has experience with a variety of diagnoses and disorders. Additionally, Elizabeth enjoys working with new parents on infant feeding skills, including transitioning from breast to bottle, and introducing solid foods.

Over the course of her career, Elizabeth has carved out a niche for herself supporting families of infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Elizabeth uses a holistic approach to working with children with a strong emphasis on the parent-child connection. She loves working in a private setting because it allows her to build strong relationships with the families she serves and she takes pride in tailoring her treatment plans to each individual client. In addition to offering direct therapy and evaluations, Elizabeth offers parent coaching sessions to help guide and empower parents to find balance, confidence and joy in their parenting journey. Elizabeth enjoys speaking at local preschools and parent groups, and staying well-connected with other professionals and experts within our community. 

When she isn’t working, you can find Elizabeth soaking up time with her husband, daughter and son.

Katie received both her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from James Madison University. She has experience working with children of a variety of ages in the private practice setting. She enjoys working in multidisciplinary settings, including work with occupational therapists, classroom teachers, and early educators. Katie has experience working with pediatric populations with a variety of needs. She enjoys providing intervention in the areas of language development including early language development (1-3 years of age), speech sound production, and social language skills. She enjoys implementing a holistic approach to therapy, using a variety of treatment methods to best fit the child and family’s needs. Katie has attended several formal trainings, including the PROMPT technique, Visualizing and Verbalizing, Social Thinking, Executive Functioning, LAMP Words for Life, and the Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol.

Katie is passionate about soccer and played soccer professionally in Switzerland. Upon her return, she was eager to blend her passion for soccer with her passion for working with children. In 2017, Katie started a soccer program for children, which focuses on participation in a group, social skills, soccer skills and team-building. Both children from Skill Builders and children from around the area have participated! In her free time, Katie enjoys playing soccer in local leagues, playing the piano, calligraphy, and spending time with family and friends!

Valerie received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Valerie works children from toddlers to teens here atSkill Builders.  Valerie is knowledgeable in working with individuals with complex communication needs and complex sensory profiles.  She is dedicated to establishing a collaborative team approach with parents, tutors, therapists, and other medical providers.  Valerie has specialty trainings in the following approaches: Dynamic Temporal Tactile Cueing (DTTC), Rapid Syllable Transition Training (ReST), PROMPT, SOS Approach to Feeding, Social Thinking, DIRFloortime, P.L.A.Y. Project, and LAMP.

Valerie previously worked as a speech-language pathologist in the public school system providing services for elementary children and is familiar with the policies, procedures, terminology, and service delivery model within the school system.

Jill grew up Dayton, Ohio. She received her bachelor’s degree in Communications Disorders from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio. She moved to Northern Virginia from Michigan four years ago.

Jill initially became interested in the area of Speech-Language Pathology in college while working as a camp counselor. One summer, Jill worked with a brother and sister who had been in foster care and attended the camp. The brother and sister were neglected during their formative years, and had developed their own language because they had not been exposed to their native language, English. Jill was intrigued by how much their language skills evolved and progressed over the course of the summer while being immersed in such a language rich environment. Seeing their immense language growth made a powerful impact that led Jill to become a speech therapist.

Jill has experience working with children of a variety of ages, both in the private practice and school settings. She has experience working with children with a variety of disorders and developmental delays, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, expressive and receptive language disorders, Apraxia, Dysarthria, and Down Syndrome. Jill enjoys collaborating with occupational therapists, school counselors and other speech pathologists. In her past jobs, she led and coordinated several social skills programs for children to promote the development of social skills with peers, and provided parent education for the development of social skills. Jill utilizes a holistic and play-based approach to therapy, and believes in working closely with each child and with their family to develop a treatment plan that meets each child’s specific needs.

Jill is married and a mother of three boys. In her free time, she loves spending time with her husband, sons, and friends. She also enjoys running, biking, swimming and reading, and loves being outside with her family and dog, Cooper.

Melissa received her bachelor’s degree from Shippensburg University in Psychology and her master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from George Washington University. She is a Lead Therapist, our Social Communication Specialist and Group Coordinator, with extensive training in social language and executive functioning. Over the last decade, Melissa has participated in numerous trainings regarding social language development, use, and therapeutic interventions.  Many of the seminars she has attended are specific to Social Thinking by Michelle Garcia Winner and the teaching of Sarah Ward among many other talented professionals.

In addition to social language and executive functioning, Melissa has a wealth of knowledge in childhood language development and play skills. She enjoys providing therapy to children with a range of skills and areas of need. Melissa has provided treatment in a variety of settings, including home, daycare, school, and clinic, and believes in the use of functional activities that will generalize to places beyond the therapeutic setting. In her many years at Skill Builders, Melissa has enjoyed learning from and working side by side and collaborating with occupational therapists, and she often incorporates sensory and movement strategies into her sessions.

Melissa has participated in many specific training programs, including PROMPT, Social Thinking, Sara-Rosenfeld Johnson Oral Motor, Greenspan’s Floortime and Affect Based Language Curriculum, Lindamood-Bell Visualizing & Verbalizing (V&V) Program, and American Sign Language. She also has completed advanced trainings in interventions targeting improvement of auditory processing and executive functioning skills. Melissa enjoys using a combination of these tools to craft a therapeutic plan to specifically meet the child’s unique needs.

In her free time, Melissa enjoys spending time with her husband, daughters, and friends. She loves hiking, exploring, watching the kids at play dates, and finding new delicious restaurant spots to try!

Hilary graduated with her master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Emerson College. She also holds a master’s in teaching from American University. Prior to becoming an SLP, Hilary was an English Learner (EL) teacher for 5 years in the Maryland public school system, where she helped facilitate literacy and math intervention with a language acquisition focus, as well as lead staff training for cultural fluency and equity.

Hilary has completed clinical experience within Loudoun County Public Schools and other local private practices where she had the opportunity to work with both children and adults in person and via teletherapy. Hilary has participated in DIR/Floortime and Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) training. 

In her free time, Hilary loves to go hiking, read, and spoil her niece and nephew!

Chrissy is originally from Pennsylvania. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences and a minor in Cognitive Neuroscience from Temple University. Chrissy then obtained her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Temple University, gaining experience working in schools, clinic settings, and hospital settings with pediatric and adult populations. 

Following graduation, Chrissy worked in several different Pennsylvania public schools, and then moved to the DMV area while continuing to work in the public school setting at Fairfax County Public Schools. Chrissy is very familiar with special education processes in public schools. Her time in school settings has shown her the value and importance of collaboration between teachers, parents, therapists, counselors, psychologists, school administrators, and all others working to support client needs. 

Over the years, Chrissy has had a range of experiences working with children with complex communication needs, articulation and phonological disorders, language disorders, fluency disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, and pragmatic language disorders. Additionally, Chrissy has experience in Autism and life skills-based classrooms with children who utilize augmentative/alternative communication including LAMP Words for Life, Proloquo2Go, Unity, TouchChat, Go Talk, and CoughDrop. 

While at Skill Builders, Chrissy has participated in trainings including Intro to Floortime, PROMPT (level 1), Dynamic Tactile and Temporal Cueing (DTTC), Social Thinking, LAMP Approach, Intro to PLAY Project, and Zones of Regulation. Additionally, Chrissy has received training in sensory regulation strategies to help support various sensory needs of clients. 

Chrissy loves building relationships with the children and families she is lucky enough to work with every day. She strives to develop and support communication skills so that her clients can ultimately express and advocate for themselves. When Chrissy is not being a speech-language pathologist, you can find her hiking, kayaking, exercising, collecting seashells at the beach, cooking, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Sophia is a Speech-Language Pathologist at Skill Builders. She received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from George Mason University and earned her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from The George Washington University.

Sophia always knew she wanted to work in a helping profession. At an early age, she became interested in the development of bilingualism. Although she was born and raised in Virginia, Sophia lived in her parents’ home countries of Mexico and Bolivia for 8 months. Upon her return to the US, she discovered she was no longer able to speak English – and needed to relearn her primary language! That childhood experience, together with her interest in former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords recovery following brain injury, led Sophia to pursue a career in speech language pathology. Sophia is excited to offer English and Spanish speech language therapy.  

In addition to being employed part-time at Skill Builders, Sophia is currently a full-time SLP for Fairfax County Public Schools. She has experience working with both pediatric and adult populations, and she has worked in diverse settings, including skilled nursing homes, non-profit organizations, and private practices. Sophia has had the pleasure to work collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams that included occupational therapy and special educators. Her experience includes evaluation and treatment of clients with diverse needs: dysphagia, cognitive-communication deficits, aphasia, language delays/disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, autism spectrum disorders, pragmatic language disorders, developmental disabilities, fluency disorders, learning disabilities. Sophia is experienced in the implementation of augmentative communication systems, including LAMP Words for Life and Proloquo2Go. She has received six Awards for Continuing Education (ACE) from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA).

In her free time, you can typically find Sophia working out, dancing, trying a new restaurant, reading a novel, or spending time with her fur babies, Bella and Barkley.

Maggie received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Georgia and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Valdosta State University. A Georgia peach, Maggie ventured to the nation’s capital to pursue her career as a speech-language pathologist, with a passion for serving children and families.

Maggie has experience primarily working with pediatric populations of various needs and abilities in the school setting, early intervention and private practices. With trainings in Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) and the Kaufman Speech-Language Protocol, Maggie has experience working with children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech, phonological disorders, fluency disorders, expressive/receptive language disorders, feeding disorders, and social communication disorders. Maggie is passionate about the early childhood population, as well as assessments and coaching style treatments in order to best support the whole child. She enjoys mentoring new clinicians in the field, as well as developing professional continuing education presentations for fellow staff members. In 2016, Maggie was the recipient of Valdosta State University’s Dewer College of Education and Human Services Award, as well as 2017 nominee for DCPS Standing Ovation Staff Member of the Year.

Outside of work, Maggie enjoys singing, musicals, Orangetheory Fitness and spending time with family and friends!

Este is originally from Southern California, where she received her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Biola University and her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy and Science from the University of Southern California.

Este has been practicing for over 15 years, with extensive experience working with children of all ages and abilities. She has worked in public schools, hospitals, and private clinics, allowing her the opportunity to understand the breadth of services available to our clients and to help our families navigate the complicated process of therapeutic intervention.

Este is passionate about building strong therapeutic relationships with her clients and learning what drives and motivates them in order to assist in developing their regulation, growth, and autonomy. She has completed training in neurodiversity-affirming practices, primitive reflex integration,  executive functioning, sensory development and processing, assistive technology, feeding, and many others. She has advanced training in specific protocols, such as Handwriting Without Tears, Astronaut Training, Interactive Metronome, DIR Floortime, Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP), and Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking Curriculum.

In her free time, Este enjoys spending time with her husband, kids, and dogs, traveling to new places, reading non-fiction books, and laughing with friends.

Prerna completed her masters in Occupational Therapy from Midwestern University in Chicago. She has experience working with children in a school and outpatient setting, with a wide range of diagnoses including learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing disorder, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, and fine and gross motor delays. She is a certified Interactive Metronome Provider and has clinical experience and training in Handwriting Without Tears, Social Thinking, Self-Regulation, Astronaut Training, and Therapeutic Listening. Prerna is experienced in providing feeding therapy services for children with sensory aversions or who are classified as “picky eaters.” 

Prerna has a passion for mentoring. She is the OT student coordinator and works closely with many universities to facilitate level I & II fieldwork placements for OT students here at Skill Builders. 

Prerna was born in Bhutan and grew up living in Bhutan, India, and Nepal. She moved to Virginia in 2001. She has always felt passionate about working with the pediatric population and is happy to be a part of the Skill Builders team.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, crafts with her daughter Jasmine, and doing fun DIY projects. 

Betsy grew up in Alexandria and received her Bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences and Genetics from Texas A&M University. After college, she moved to Southern California to manage a biochemistry lab at UC Irvine. However, Betsy decided she would rather spend more time interacting with people than microscopic cells and lab equipment. Through her experiences coaching high school lacrosse and nannying, Betsy discovered the value and power of pediatric OT. She returned to her home state of Virginia to pursue her clinical doctorate in OT at Mary Baldwin University. Prior to coming to Skill Builders, Betsy completed her capstone project through Fairfax County Public Schools emphasizing the importance of positive mental health throughout the school day through semi-structured recess activities. Betsy has enjoyed working with children of all ages in the outpatient setting, early intervention, and school setting.

Betsy enjoys serving as the co-director for the Skill Builders’ summer camp, Camp SuperNOVA. She has received formal training in Astronaut Training, DIR Floortime, the LAMP AAC approach, Learning Without Tears, Interactive Metronome, Therapeutic Listening, and the SOS Approach to Feeding. She is passionate about discovering children’s motivations and strengths in a therapeutic setting in order to promote growth, autonomy, and sensory processing. Betsy spends her free time doting on her nephew and nieces, attending Nationals games, and playing with her rescue pups.

Julie received her bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from Virginia Tech and her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Shenandoah University. Julie began working part time at Skill Builders in 1997 and has gained valuable experience working with a wide variety of children and their families.Julie has work experience in both public and private school-based Occupational Therapy intervention. Over the years, she has worked with children and adolescents with various disabilities. Julie has completed continuing education courses in the following areas: Sensory integration, Vestibular processing, Executive functioning, First Strokes Handwriting curriculum, Mindfulness/Meditation, Therapeutic Listening, and Yoga for Kids. She is also trained in the Zones of Regulation program and utilizes it regularly to help children with self-regulation and to gain emotional control in a variety of settings.

Julie chose to specialize in Pediatric Occupational Therapy because she found it particularly rewarding to help children develop the skills they need to grow into functional, independent adults. She enjoys the challenge of adapting everyday activities to meet the sensory and motor needs of the children she works with on a day-to-day basis. In addition, she has a wealth of experience with parent education and teacher consultation.

In her free time, Julie enjoys traveling with her family to new destinations, reading fiction books, exercising outdoors, and volunteering in her community.

I am adept at teletherapy and creatively addressing executive function skill activities through teletherapy.

Jamie received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Wake Forest University and her doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Mary Baldwin University. 

Jamie has always known she wanted to work with the pediatric population having worked as a preschool teacher and at various summer camps prior to graduate school. Jamie’s interest was further sparked through her clinicial fieldwork experiences in hospital, clinic, and school settings., She has worked with kids with sensory processing differences, self-regulation difficulties, autism, ADHD, developmental delays, physical disabilities, and more. Jamie is trained in Sensory Integration, DIR Floortime, and Therapeutic Listening. 

Her favorite leisure activities include traveling, hiking, reading, and exploring new areas around the DMV with her husband!

Sheri earned a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University and then worked as a fitness professional for 5 years, helping the older adult population stay active. When a family member experienced a traumatic brain injury, she saw occupational therapy in action helping that family member recover. As the therapist used their understanding of the body to help her family member find more meaning in life, Sheri realized this was what she wanted to do. Sheri went on to earn a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of Washington. While she initially planned to work with the geriatric population, Sheri fell in love with pediatrics during a graduate internship.  Sheri gained experience in public schools in the Seattle, WA area, working primarily with preschool and elementary age children. She also has experience with aquatic therapy and working in skilled nursing facilities. While working in schools, Sheri enjoyed the collaboration with team members and families to help students grow and develop. She is excited to be part of the Skill Builder’s team serving families by helping children improve their lives at home and in the community.

When not at work, you’ll find Sheri and her husband and 2 kids outside as much as possible hiking, biking and exploring the surrounding area.

Cassandra “Cassie” Garcia is an Occupational Therapist who worked with Skill Builders previously from 2015-2019 and is excited to be back on the team! Cassie received her BS/MS degree in Occupational Therapy from the University at Buffalo in New York, and in 2022, Cassie received her AOTA Board Certification in Pediatrics. During her time as an OT, Cassie has worked with children and young adults ages 3-25, with a variety of diagnoses, in both school-based and private practice settings. She uses a strengths-based approach in her treatment, focusing on building clients’ confidence and working towards functional goals that are motivating for the client and their family.

Cassie has participated in various training throughout her time as an OT, focusing on sensory integration, social participation, cultural competency, executive functioning, and functional approaches to handwriting and activities of daily living. Cassie has a passion for working with adolescents and young adults who are transitioning from high school into college and/or the workforce, and ensuring they are set up for success in their future endeavors.

In her spare time, Cassie enjoys spending time with her husband, her son, and other family and friends, baking, doing yoga, and cheering on her favorite sports teams (Go Bills!).

Jamie is native to Northern Virginia, having received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from George Mason University, and her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Shenandoah University. Her personal experiences witnessing the magic of pediatric therapy sparked her interest in helping to support individuals of varying needs and their families. Before becoming an OT, Jamie worked with children as a camp counselor, in the classroom, and as a nanny.

Jamie has worked with various populations and medical complexities, including children with Autism, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, genetic and neurological conditions,as well as those with sensory processing challenges, feeding aversions,and visual deficits. She has training in various treatment approaches, including DIR/Floortime and SOS Feeding Approach. Her areas of interest include sensory processing and interoception. Jamie is a native Spanish speaker.

One of Jamie’s favorite things about working with families is identifying strengths to maximize a child’s potential. Jamie likes to utilize creativity and a child’s unique interests within sessions to make practicing and learning new skills fun, engaging, and meaningful.

In her free time, Jamie enjoys spending time outside walking her dog, exercising, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

Jennifer is a native of the Northern Virginia area. She received her Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience from Kenyon College and her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Tufts University.

Following graduation, Jennifer worked with adults in the mental health care field for over thirteen years. She was excited to join Skill Builders in 2019 and loves blending skills from her previous work into her pediatric practice. Jennifer has experience working with a variety of diagnoses and has completed continuing education courses in the areas of Autism, sensory processing disorders, learning disabilities, executive functioning, Astronaut training, Therapeutic listening, early intervention, DIRFloortime, Handwriting without tears, stress management, mindfulness/DBT, and trauma. She has a FloorTime Basic certification.

Jennifer discovered OT while working in a special education preschool program just out of college. She loves that OT is the perfect intersection of the jobs she wanted to have as a kid: teacher, doctor, artist, and inventor. She loves building obstacle courses and helping kids succeed by finding their own way.

On the weekends, you can find Jennifer hanging out at the playground with her family, cooking, crafting or gardening.

Gabby Mazzeo grew up in New Jersey. Early experiences working with children with Autism spectrum disorder led her to pursuing a career in occupational therapy. She received her bachelor’s of arts degree in Psychology from the University of South Carolina and her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh. Gabby has experience providing occupational therapy services in both outpatient clinics and schools, as well as via telehealth. She has experience working with children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, sensory processing difficulties, selective eating, and gross and fine motor delays. Gabby is formally trained in the SOS Approach to Feeding, the Beckman Oral Motor Protocol, Astronaut Training and Therapeutic Listening. She has also attended introductory courses to DIRFloortime and has experience in the use of the Zones of Regulation and Handwriting Without Tears curriculums. Gabby is interested in trauma-informed care and passionate about using evidence-based practice to make occupational therapy meaningful and fun to clients and their families!

In her free time, Gabby enjoys reading, exploring Washington, D.C., traveling to see family and friends, and going on hikes with her dog, Beans.

Born in Bhutan, Trishna went to a Boarding School in India when she was barely 8 years old. As a result, Trishna grew up as a very independent, self-motivated, and very highly organized person. She moved to the United States in 2001 and pursued her career in Hospitality and Hotel Management. She worked with the Hilton Group for 7 years, working her way up to a management position before leaving. Given her love and compassion for children, Trishna switched careers and began working in a Childcare and Daycare Center for the next 12 years.

With her diverse background, proven work ethic and a gentle personality, coupled with her strong interpersonal skills, Trishna has been an invaluable addition to the administrative team. Trishna is trilingual in English, Nepali and Hindi. She enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Jackie is a winged creature — she was born in a small town in India, attended college in a (slightly) bigger Indian town, and lived for several years in maximum city Mumbai before moving to Northern Virginia. Previously, she made the skies super friendly as a flight attendant with Air India, Atlantic Coast Airlines, and MAXjet, following which she provided super friendly customer service in banking, and then joined Skill Builders as an admin assistant. She has a bachelor’s degree in Geography from the University of North Bengal, a bookkeeping certification, and a little accounting know-how. Outside of work, you will likely find her training for a marathon, tending her vegetable garden, hiking, and plotting the next backpacking trip with her husband.

Jeanne is originally from Pittsburgh, PA, and received her undergraduate degree from Gannon University in both Early Childhood Education and Special Education. Jeanne went on to teach special education in two different charter schools in Washington, D.C., and currently teaches special education in Fairfax County, where she is the lead special education teacher. She has worked in a variety of settings and has worked with many different populations. Jeanne has experience working with students with communication devices and other assistive technology. She is trained in Wilson reading programs, such as Just Words and Read Naturally, along with math programs like VMath. Jeanne is also trained in adapted curriculums such as Early Numeracy, Early Science and Early Literacy Skill Builders. She has received training in all ABA practices in Fairfax County as well. After winning at the local and district level, Jeanne was selected as the VFW 2023 Elementary Teacher of the Year for the state of Virginia.  Jeanne is the Lead Social Studies teacher at her school and supports students and staff in accessing social studies resources and materials.

Jeanne has her master’s degree in Community Counseling from Argosy University and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. She has worked as a case manager and has worked in the inpatient and outpatient behavioral health department at Washington Adventist Hospital where she led group counseling sessions with patients, as well as art, music and dance therapy. Jeanne also has experience in the school setting as a counselor.

In her free time, Jeanne is a violinist in the Arlington Concert Orchestra and loves to cheer on any and all Pittsburgh sports teams!

Tina Long is a Learning Specialist and Parent Coach. She has been in the education field for over 20 years and her experience includes teaching individuals with ADHD, learning/developmental/intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, exceptional learning needs, low-incidence disabilities, and trauma experiences. Tina received a Bachelor of Arts in Health Education with a Minor in Special Education at George Mason University. She taught special education middle school math and science after college, was the director of a tutoring center for 1 year, and transitioned to providing early intervention services in homes before beginning graduate school. She received a Masters of Education in Special Education in 2012 while providing in-home instructional services to individuals with disabilities of all ages. In 2014 she returned to working in public schools as a specialist to increase inclusion for students with disabilities from preschool through high school, provided various professional development trainings and workshops to instructional and administrative staff, and helped develop + implement the Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports program for behavior, academics, and social-emotional learning. Shortly before the birth of her second child in 2019, Tina returned to providing individual services to individuals with disabilities in home, community, and work settings as a therapeutic consultant under the VA Medicaid IDD Waiver. Through the COVID-19 Pandemic she provided virtual coaching, consultation, and instruction to individuals, families, and caregivers to increase independence, and social-emotional skills. Tina has taught undergraduate and graduate level courses at George Mason University, and was a university practicum supervisor in the graduate school of education. Additionally, Tina has provided training and professional development to professionals and leaders of various education, mental, and behavioral health organizations.

Tina is the creator of Matrix Mind Stretch! An Activity Book for Psychological Flexibility using the ACT Matrix (www.MatrixMindStretch.com).

She has been featured on multiple podcasts including The Engine Mom, The Behavioral Observations Podcast, Behavior Bites, and the Just ACT Podcast. She has also presented virtual workshops to parents and professionals around the world, covering topics of parenting, social-emotional learning, inclusion, instructional design, and mindfulness.

The best part of Tina’s day is watching learners (including parents!) experience their own ‘Ah-ha!’ moments and learn a new skill or process that makes their own life better. When not coaching or tutoring, Tina enjoys trying new foods with her husband, playing with her 2 small children, and snuggling with their dog, Mavis.