We love highlighting our incredible therapists! Today we hear from Katie Kistler, M.S., CCC-SLP, who joined our staff this spring.

Tell us about your family.

I have been married to my husband, Alex, for almost 6 years. We have a dog, Penny, and a one year old son!

Do you have any interests or hobbies?

I love to cook and try new recipes, or attempt to recreate dishes I have ordered out. I'm not much of a baker because it's too exacting, I like to throw things together and see how it comes out! I also enjoy an afternoon walk around our neighborhood with the whole family.

Favorite Birmingham restaurant?

Hands down, El Barrio. I once went for dinner and then brunch the next morning, and had the same waitress.

Where did you go to school?

I attended Auburn University for my bachelors degree in Communication Disorders, and then University of South Alabama for my Masters in Speech Language Pathology.

What made you want to be an SLP?

I had actually never heard of the profession until I took a career exploration class, and two career aptitude tests gave me SLP as a result! I then took an Intro course and couldn't get enough. The science behind how someone learns to communicate was fascinating to me!

What's your favorite aspect of being an SLP?

I think most people take being able to communicate effectively for granted. Being an advocate for those who can't communicate in a traditional manner is so important. Everyone has likes and dislikes, and things they want and need, and a right to be able to express that!

What are your favorite resources for learning more about speech and language?

ASHA is always my go-to for current research and best practices. Pinterest is where I look for fun activities!

What's the one thing you wish parents knew about speech and language?

It doesn't have to be intimidating! We are constantly surrounded by opportunities to learn language in our daily routines, talk about what you are doing and what you see. Make it a game, make it a song, and have fun!

You can reach Katie at katie.kistler@steelcityspeech.com.