About Us

Jackie Anderson M.S., CCC-SLP

Hi, I’m Jackie, founder of Ascend Pediatric Therapies, LLC!

I am a certified speech-language pathologist (licensed in both New Jersey and Maryland,) specializing in diagnostics and treatment of speech-language disorders in toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children. I specialize in working with neurodiverse populations and value neurodiversity affirming practices as well as research-based, play-centered approaches. I am certified in the Hanen Centre’s More Than Words Program and have extensive experience administering the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) on multidisciplinary teams. In 2022, I became formally trained in Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework, gestalt language processing & child-led therapy. I’m also proud to be an adjunct professor at Monmouth University in their Master of Science SLP program.

I’m originally from Monmouth County, NJ but headed south to complete my education and training as a SLP. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from East Carolina University, and earned a Master of Science degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Following graduation, I worked at the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) at Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, MD with families from all over the world. In addition to direct patient care, I have offered parent training and professional development seminars regarding language development and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I remained at CARD for over 7 years until my family and I returned home to New Jersey in 2021.

I am passionate about identifying each child's unique way of communicating and learning, and am a firm believer that therapy should be engaging and fun! I will work alongside you to help your child reach and exceed their goals.

Each of our therapists here at Ascend Pediatric Therapies are experienced, passionate professionals who I am so proud to have on board. We look forward to getting to know your family and cheering on your child as they grow their skills!

 

Awards

ECP.PNG

ASHA

Distinguished Early Career Professional

Jackie was honored by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) with an ECP Certificate for making an impact in the areas of leadership, volunteering and advocacy!

Certifications

Formally trained in Natural Language Acquisition framework, gestalt language processing & child-led therapy.

Hanen Certified in the More Than Words Program.