At Speech Within Reach, our team of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) does more than provide therapy—they change lives every day. Behind every session is a story, a moment of inspiration, or a personal journey that led them to this meaningful profession. Communication is at the heart of human connection, and for our therapists, assisting others to find their voice is not just a career—it’s a calling.
To celebrate the dedication and passion that drive our SLPs, we asked them to share anonymously what inspires their work. From the early experiences that led them into the field, to the core values that guide their practice, and the moments that keep them motivated, their words reflect the heart and soul of speech therapy. These stories remind us that inspiration can be found in every step of the journey!
SLPs Interview Question 1: What inspired you to become a Speech-Language Pathologist?
Based on the responses, SLPs joined the field after personal experiences that revealed the transformative power of communication.
“My parents’ closest friend was a speech-language pathologist, and he helped me with a slight lisp when I was 6 years old. I became interested in the field when introduced to different careers in high school. I was inspired to help others with their communication skills. This inspiration continues today.”
“I shadowed a speech therapist in undergrad and knew immediately that this is what I wanted to do! I love being able to work with special populations in a 1:1 setting and make a tangible impact in their lives.”
“Growing up, I usually spent my days before school age going to work with my dad to watch his physical therapy sessions. I saw so many home visits and school sessions. I was always quiet so teachers would sit me with their students who had an AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) device, and we would communicate. My biggest mission is to give everyone a voice, to communicate, to advocate, to be heard, etc.”
SLPs Interview Question 2: What core values guide your practice?
Inspiration shapes not just why SLPs work, but how. These values ensure therapy is respectful and effective.
“Being kind and respectful to everyone. If I do not treat the person in front of me with kindness or respect, how do I expect them to trust me or to be kind/respectful in return.”
“The most important values are empathy, trust, compassion, knowledge, and ethical practices.”
“Positive client and family relationships, fostering client’s feelings of success, and having fun!”
SLPs Interview Question 3: What keeps you inspired?
The work of an SLP is filled with small victories that add up to big milestones.
“The child that is completely shut down and hiding in their clothes or under the table. To watch them transform from defeat to showing pride in each accomplishment is what keeps me going.”
“I find speech and language therapy meaningful through the relationships with clients and their ability to increase their communication skills.”
“I am inspired by and proud of all my clients, but I am working with a 2-year-old client right now who I would say is the most inspirational/influential to me. Since she is so young, I have had the privilege of watching her grow so much in her language and overall interaction with others!”
SLPs Interview Question 4: What would you like to share with people to assist clients or expand the influece of speech therapy?
SLPs identified priorities that keep therapy effective and client-centered.
“Speech therapy is important and may be helpful with ‘fixing the problem’, but a major part of every speech therapy journey is acceptance and support from family and friends!”
“Speech therapy is available for people of all ages and communication challenges.”
“Just because someone needs speech, does not take away from that child’s personality, their understanding, their ability to learn, etc. It should not be something to hide, but something that can help us improve how we communicate.”
Conclusion
The voices of our therapists echo a common theme: speech therapy is fueled by compassion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves the power to communicate. Whether sparked by personal experiences, grounded in values of empathy and respect, or renewed by watching clients grow, their inspiration drives the impact they make every day. At Speech Within Reach, we are proud to have a team whose hearts are deeply invested in the work they do. These stories from the heart are more than reflections of inspiration—they are proof of the lasting difference our SLPs make in the lives of those they serve.
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– JUSTIN HU, Assistant Research and Marketing Intern
– HANNA MOELLER, Illinois State University, Senior Research and Marketing Intern
-NICOLE BUTLER, M.S., CCC-SLP/L (ASHA Certified and licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, Founder and Executive Director of Speech Within Reach.)
SPEECH WITHIN REACH provides in person and virtual telehealth speech therapy for children and adults. We are grateful to support your speech therapy needs. Please feel free to reach out to us.