Speech Start provides
services for individuals ages 0 to 21+
I am currently in my final semester at Monmouth University, where I’m earning a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a minor in Communication Sciences and Disorders. My next step is to pursue a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology as I work toward becoming a licensed SLP. From a young age, I’ve known I wanted to be in a helping profession. Over the years, experiences such as babysitting for local families and, more recently, interning at an intervention-based summer camp for children with learning differences have deepened my passion for supporting others. These experiences have solidified my commitment to the field of speech-language pathology. I’ve always been motivated by the opportunity to put others first and make a meaningful impact in their lives. I’m truly excited to be part of the Speech Start team and to learn from such skilled and dedicated professionals. I look forward to growing both personally and professionally while contributing to the meaningful work of helping individuals thrive through communication.
The little things that you do each day can make the biggest difference in someone’s life.
Group Facilitator, Office Staff
Leigh Clapp received her associate’s degree in Fine Arts from Brookdale Community College in 2014 and her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Georgian Court University in 2017. Leigh has several years of experience working in schools, starting off as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional after graduating from college before becoming a regular paraprofessional, working with special needs students from preschool to high school. Leigh also has experience working with special needs adults 18+ as a summer camp counselor for the parks system. Leigh enjoys applying her skills to her clients and is super excited to see what Speech Start has to offer!
The best part of my day is seeing kids walk in the room with smiles on their faces knowing how much they're excited to be here and ready to learn.
Group Facilitator, Office Staff
Noelle is an undergraduate student at Monmouth University working towards her degree in Health Science with a focus in communication sciences and disorders. She is passionate about pursuing a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Since 2018 she has been working in both daycares and summer camps. Noelle has always wanted to be part of a profession that serves the public and always likes to be someone who will go the extra mile for another. Noelle is excited to begin her journey at Speech Start and learn more about the services and programs they provide!
My strongest sense of reward comes from witnessing the positive impact that my actions have on others.
Group Facilitator, Office Staff
Laura Fanizzi is a Developmental Therapist with Speech Start, p.a. Since 1999. She has been providing behavioral therapy in individual and group settings, creating and implementing individual behavior programs for clients. Her experience with DIR, OPTIONS, and Verbal Behavior are part of a toolbox to assess and provide clients with the appropriate interventions.
Laura has assisted teachers in preschool classroom settings as well as shadowing special needs children in typical environments. Additionally she is a inclusion specialist who provides training for staff on current inclusion practices for teachers and paraprofessionals and in-services to school staff on social skills training. When not wearing these hats, Laura can be found managing the Speech Start offices, overseeing scheduling, scheduling, billing, building maintenance, and more.
“My goal is always what’s best for a child; working with families through challenges to become successful.”
Paraprofessional, Office Manager
Group Facilitator, Office Staff
Group Facilitator, Office Staff
