Voices of Care:
Inside Speech Language Pathology at Ochsner
Featuring: Lauren D., Supervisor for Adult Speech Therapy Services and Kylie W., Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist
Location: Ochsner Therapy & Wellness - New Orleans
May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a time to recognize the clinicians who help patients connect, communicate, and thrive. From a child saying their first words to an adult regaining independence after a neurological event, speech language pathologists (SLPs) make a lasting impact across every stage of life.
At Ochsner, SLPs are part of a collaborative, supportive community that is driven by purpose and powered by teamwork.
A Career Rooted in Curiosity and Connection
For Lauren D., supervisor for adult speech therapy services, the path to becoming an SLP started with an unexpected push.
“Funnily enough, my college friend and roommate convinced me to switch my major because I wasn’t fully invested in my original career track. I switched over and ended up falling in love with the field.”
What kept her there was the unique blend of science and human connection.
“I was drawn to speech-language pathology because it combines problem solving, neuroscience and meaningful patient interaction. It allows me to help people regain essential skills like communication, thinking and swallowing that directly impact their independence and quality of life.”
For Kylie W., a pediatric speech language pathologist, inspiration also came from guidance and exploration.
“My mom encouraged me to look into speech therapy because I wanted to work with kids, but I wasn’t sure what job would fit me best. My interest grew with each new experience.”
That curiosity still drives her today.
“Speech language pathology is a career for lifelong learners, and I love continually gaining new knowledge through this career.”
Teamwork Across Every Setting
Whether you’re drawn to pediatrics or adult rehabilitation, Ochsner offers opportunities to specialize, grow and make a tangible difference.
Whether working with adults or children, collaboration is central to care at Ochsner.
In the neuro clinic, Lauren sees the power of a unified approach every day.
“We approach each patient as a team rather than as individual disciplines working in silos. Our collaboration ensures care is aligned and meaningful.”
That same collaborative spirit exists in outpatient pediatric care.
“Working in a multidisciplinary setting gives me the best team to better serve our patients,” Kylie says. “I love the ability to collaborate with other disciplines that educate me in new ways.”
From complex neurologic conditions to diverse pediatric diagnoses, Ochsner SLPs rely on one another to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care.
A Culture That Lifts You Up
Team culture is a common thread across both adult and pediatric settings.
“There’s a strong sense of trust and respect where people are always willing to step in and offer support,” Lauren says. “It creates an environment where you can continuously learn and grow.”
For Kylie, that support makes a difference every day.
“I love coming to work to see my coworkers. They make hard days easy.”
Moments That Matter Most
For SLPs, the most meaningful part of the job often comes down to connection and progress.
Lauren finds purpose in helping patients regain control after life-changing events.
“My favorite part is helping patients feel more in control of their situation. I guide them with the tools and strategies, but they’re the ones doing the hard work.”
Sometimes, those wins are deeply personal.
“Helping someone safely return to that po-boy they’ve been talking about for months is so rewarding.”
For Kylie, it is all about connection and trust.
“I love building rapport with my patients. Getting to a place where you can laugh and do your work throughout your day is the best.”
Growing Your Career at Ochsner
Both clinicians highlight the opportunities for growth within Ochsner.
Lauren has expanded into leadership, mentorship and program development, including helping lead a clinical fellowship program that supports new graduates.
Kylie began her journey at Ochsner as a clinical fellow.
“I was able to complete my clinical fellowship here, which helped me transition smoothly from a student to an independent therapist. Now I have the space to build new ideas and implement them within our clinics.”
Looking ahead, both are focused on continuing to grow and enhance patient care. Kylie hopes to expand pediatric neurology services, while
Lauren is passionate about advancing clinician development and program quality.
Advice for Future SLPs
Both Lauren and Kylie emphasize the importance of curiosity, collaboration and authenticity.
“Be curious, collaborative and open to growth,” Lauren says. “The strongest clinicians stay engaged and keep patient care meaningful.”
Kylie adds, “Be yourself and be ready to be a team player. No one works alone in this setting, and your team is your best library of knowledge.”
____________________________________________
This National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, we celebrate the compassion, expertise and impact of speech language pathologists across Ochsner.
If you are looking for a career where you can make a meaningful difference, explore opportunities in therapy and wellness. Visit careers.ochsner.org to learn more and take the next step.