Meet Jodi Thomas, M.A., CCC-SLP/L | Speech-Language Pathologist & Owner of Growing Voices Speech & Language Therapy

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jodi Thomas, M.A., CCC-SLP/L and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jodi, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I wanted to maximize my ability to truly help children with speech and language disorders. I have a background in public schools and private clinics. Early in my career, I was amazed by the progress my private clinic clients often made compared to my students in the schools. Additionally, after the pandemic, I experienced a disparity between an increasing need for speech and language services and my ability to meet those needs within my employment. School speech-language pathologists are often asked to treat over 70 kids each week on top of meetings, evaluations, paperwork, and scheduling conflicts. Children are frequently treated in groups and sessions are back-to-back. I felt my ability to provide quality therapy was limited by these constraints and the nature of the school setting, so children often failed to meet their goals.

I started my business because I wanted to provide children the quality, one-on-one therapy they deserve. Children thrive with one-on-one therapy, and when the family sees how I am helping their child, recommendations are carried over throughout the week. It’s amazing to see the progress in this improved setting, and it’s rewarding for everyone.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I chose the name “Growing Voices Speech & Language Therapy” because I have a strong passion for helping children grow into their voices. I never want a child to be held back by difficulties with communication. It’s an honor to come alongside families and help their children learn to communicate their wants, needs, likes and dislikes. Frustration for both the child and the family decreases and the family gets to learn more about their child. Additionally, they are much more prepared and confident for school, without allowing speech or language difficulties to get in the way of their education.

Growing Voices specializes in treating speech and language disorders for children with autism, using the Gestalt Language Processing framework. This method prioritizes establishing a relationship with children, considering the whole child, acknowledging the language they do have, and following their lead. I have seen amazing progress with my clients using this method, even in cases where progress was limited using traditional methods. Many parents are looking for a neurodiversity-affirming approach to therapy for their child and thus have discovered Gestalt Language Processing as a viable alternative. This effective approach to therapy is more enjoyable and affirming for the child.

Growing Voices also treats speech sound disorders, language disorders including delays, and implementation of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices to help non-speaking individuals communicate.

It took time to build my business, but I valued easing into things so I could establish systems as my practice grew. The main challenge I experienced while growing is clients getting attached to me! Honestly, I would love to treat every client myself, but there’s only one of me. It can be a challenge as a business owner to pass off clients to other therapists. As an in-home therapist, we have the amazing opportunity to feel like family, and it’s hard to let go. Some parents have not had great experiences with other therapists in the past, so when they find one they like, they hold on tight. I definitely understand that, but I also am extremely conscientious when hiring. This business is my baby and I adore my clients. All of my therapists have completed the same training course in Gestalt Language Processing, value making connections with the children, and are highly competent. I am so grateful to know my clients are in great hands!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My family is really into hiking! Whether you want to stay in town and visit South Mountain or hit the Superstition Mountains, there are plenty of gorgeous hiking opportunities. If you want to get away from the heat, there are some great places to visit within a few hours north of Phoenix as well.

I also take my guests to the Desert Botanical Garden. You can spend hours there and learn so much about the beautiful desert plants.

For food, I am a huge fan of Sapiens and Diego Pops in Scottsdale, as well as Pitta Souvli in Chandler. I love supporting locally owned businesses and appreciate gluten free options.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I particularly want to give recognition to my husband, David, who was the one to encourage me to start my business. He is the unseen partner in my business who helps me prepare for the day, whether that’s laminating papers or keeping me well caffeinated. I’m extremely blessed that he handles my finances as well, so I am free to do what I do best. I wouldn’t have been able to start this business without him. Thank you, David!

Website: https://www.growingvoicestherapy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growingvoices.speech/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingvoicestherapy