Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Baldo.
Hi Kristen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I’ve wanted to be a speech therapist since high school, after shadowing and volunteering in the field. I attended Clemson University, graduated with a Communication and Psychology degree, and then obtained my Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Vanderbilt University. My first job was in private practice as a pediatric SLP for a multi-disciplinary clinic in the Charleston area. After about two years, I transitioned to a new job working for a school district. I’m grateful for both past and present work experiences, especially all the people I have learned from, including mentors, coworkers, families, and students. Following the pandemic, despite those in our discipline working tirelessly, I noticed a large discrepancy between the need for communication interventions and the availability of services. I started Simple Speech Solutions to fill this gap and serve my community. I love being able to support families in Charleston. It is a dream to practice under my own company in my hometown. I look forward to building more relationships and helping children and families achieve their goals.
Let’s dig deeper into the story – has it been an easy path, and if not, what challenges have you overcome?
As with starting anything new, there has been a learning curve. In graduate school, the focus was on understanding different pathologies and treatment approaches. Now, after starting my practice, I am focusing on developing new skillsets in entrepreneurship. Being a business owner has been challenging but rewarding. I have been blessed with the support of an incredible community. From family to friends to former colleagues and classmates, I appreciate all the help I have received to get to where I am today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Simple Speech Solutions, LLC?
I named my practice Simple Speech Solutions because I have found that the most effective therapy tactics are simple and straightforward. I believe therapy goals and treatment should be functional and relate to meaningful activities and aspects of daily life. I aim to create a safe space for connection, focusing on a child’s strengths, to promote speech and language development and growth. My therapeutic interventions are rooted in evidence and are child-centered, play-based, and neurodiversity-affirming.
I offer private pediatric speech and language therapy, with a focus in the following areas: early communication, articulation delays, phonological impairments, expressive and receptive language disorders, social and pragmatic differences, and stuttering.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check?
There are so many wonderful resources out there depending on what you’re looking for! I’d be happy to connect with anyone and provide specific recommendations whether you’re interested in business / entrepreneurship or speech and language therapy. I’ve personally found a lot of growth listening to podcasts like Speechie Side Up, Two Sides of the Spectrum, and The SLP Now.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.simplespeechsolutionschs.com
- Instagram: @simplespeechsolutionschs
