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About Us
Speak To Me, Inc. is a pediatric therapy practice providing Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy services including evaluations, diagnosis, and therapy to infants and children.
We proudly serve the Charlotte, NC area, covering Cabarrus, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Catawba, Caldwell, Alexander, and Burke counties. For the convenience and comfort of our families, we offer therapy at our Mooresville clinic, in home, or at partnering daycare facilities.
Founded in 2007 by Leslie Giambrone, Speak To Me Pediatric Therapy was established to meet the growing demand for Speech Therapy in the Charlotte area. Leslie, who had been working solo since 2003, realized that by expanding her team, she could help more children and families. Over time, Leslie added new services to better meet the needs of her clients: Occupational Therapy was introduced in 2021, and Physical Therapy in 2024.
Leslie’s vision for a multidisciplinary approach was inspired by her experience working alongside outstanding Physical and Occupational Therapists in Philadelphia, Charlotte, and the Lake Norman area. This collaborative model ensures that families receive comprehensive and coordinated care.
With over 26 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist, Leslie’s journey into therapy started in an unexpected way. She originally aimed for a career in Food Science, but a class at Meredith College in Raleigh on “Exceptional Children” sparked her passion for Speech Therapy, particularly in the areas of Feeding Therapy and Swallowing Disorders. Leslie’s global experience with Operation Smile—helping children and adults with cleft lip and palate across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East—further shaped her approach to pediatric care. She currently serves on a Charlotte-based cleft palate team under the direction of Dr. Kapitan at Carolinas Center for Oral and Facial Surgery.
Leslie’s personal experience with Tongue Tie—both as someone born with the condition and as the mother of a child with the same condition—drove her to pursue additional training in TOTS (Tethered Oral Tissues). This specialized training allows her to assess children for potential procedures to improve feeding and oral function.
At Speak To Me Pediatric Therapy, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care. We equip our therapists with the necessary training, mentorship, and ongoing education to ensure we deliver the best evaluations, diagnoses, and treatments available. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we are proud to take on complex cases and provide specialized care for children who need it most.
Making a difference in every child’s life is what drives us every day.
Meet Our Amazing Team of Therapists!
OWNER & FOUNDER
Leslie R. Giambrone, Speech-Language Pathologist
Leslie is the owner and founder of Speak To Me and helps infants, children, and adults improve their communication and feeding skills for over 25 years. Leslie is married to Gary and has two children, Evan and Ryder, a boxer named Nayla, and two hermit crabs, Blue and Sandy. She enjoys hiking, camping, and doing Pilates.
She has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders from North Carolina State University and a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from North Carolina Central University. She is a member of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) with a Certificate of Clinical Competency in Speech Pathology and licensed by the North Carolina Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology.
Specialized Training: Introduction to PROMPT-trained (2013), TOTS (Tethered Oral Tissues Specialty-2017), Orofacial Myology Training (2021)
Office Support Team
Alisa Frady
Lead Intake Coordinator/Community Liaison
Alisa Frady attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She then continued her education at Asheville Buncombe Technical College, where she graduated with an Associate’s degree in Applied Science in Radiography. Soon after graduation, Alisa and her husband, Jamie, plus their two children Kylee (23) and Kannon (21), moved to Mooresville, NC, where they’ve been for more than 19 years.
Alisa joined Speak to Me in 2014 and has watched the company grow. Throughout her time on our team, she’s enjoyed helping so many children with a wonderful group of therapists. She finds it such a pleasure to be a small part of changing kid’s lives.
Courtnay Bryant
Office Manager
Hello, my name is Courtnay. I’m the new Office Manager here at Speak to Me Pediatric Therapy. I’ve worked in the medical field for over 20 years, mainly in administrative and managerial roles, and I truly enjoy helping families feel comfortable and cared for. I’ve always been very passionate about creating a welcoming and supportive environment for both patients and staff.
Me and Fiancé Damon are the proud parents of three, my oldest son is studying at Full Sail University in Orlando, my daughter is at Lees-McRae College, and my youngest is a fun, energetic rising second grader who keeps me on my toes! When I’m not working, I love spending time with family and friends. In the warmer months, you’ll usually find me near a pool taking a swim or reading a good book. I’m a big fan of the Food Network (even though I don’t cook!) and HGTV—I could watch home makeovers all day. I’m so excited to be part of the Speak to Me Pediatric team and can’t wait to meet you and your little ones!
Pediatric Physical Therapy Team
Nikki Degner
Lead Physical Therapist
Nikki graduated from Marquette University with her Masters in Physical Therapy and Bachelors degree in Psychology. She has over 20 years of experience in pediatrics in multiple settings including private practice, early intervention, schools, and NICU settings. She specializes in treating infants, torticollis, children with gross motor delays, and coordination deficits. She has taken many courses in therapeutic taping, NDT, aquatic therapy, and is a Certified Infant Massage Instructor. Nikki has a passion for working with children and watching them achieve their goals. When she is not at work she enjoys spending time with her husband, three kids-who keep her very busy, and her dog. She enjoys being outside, traveling, and loves going to the beach.
Heidi Kempert
Physical Therapist Assistant
Heidi Kempert is a physical therapist assistant with 14 years of pediatric experience. She also completed the advanced proficiency program for pediatrics through the American Physical Therapy Association. She worked at a pediatric hospital in Ohio before relocating to North Carolina. Heidi has published several peer reviewed articles and has presented similar information nationally and internationally on topics including chronic pain, student sports injury prevention, case studies, pediatric yoga, and coordination disorders. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and stays active in her field by collaborating with other clinicians. She is passionate about her work and helping to improve children’s lives through enhanced function! In her free time she enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, cooking, reading, and spending time with friends and family.
Kayla Tucker
Physical Therapist Assistant
A native of North Carolina, Kayla began her educational journey by earning an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science. She continued her studies, obtaining her Masters Degree in Business Administration. After spending several years in the field, she decided to return her focus on her passion for helping children achieve greater function and mobility and graduated with a Physical Therapist Assistant degree.
Kayla became interested in the pediatric population after shadowing at a pediatric hospital in South Carolina where she was able to witness a child take their first steps after being fitted with a custom walker. She enjoys learning about different pediatric conditions and how she is able to help them on their journey to reaching their milestones.
Kayla enjoys working with other disciplines at Speak to Me, as it enables her to treat children as a whole in addition to physical therapy. She is looking forward to growing with the Speak to Me team.
Outside of work, Kayla enjoys spending time with her husband and puppy in the great outdoors, as well as traveling to different destinations around the globe.
Pediatric Occupational Therapy Team
Heather Tinkham
Lead Occupational Therapist
Heather earned her Masters in Occupational Therapy from New England Institute of Technology, Associates in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Northshore Community College, along with her Bachelors in Business/Administration/Fitness from Fitchburg State College. Heather has been practicing since 2010 with a primary focus in pediatrics. Heather has training in a variety of areas and therapeutic approaches related to and not limited to; feeding, sensory processing, development 0-21, emotional regulation, and executive function. Heather has always had a love for children, helping others, learning, health/wellness, and the arts. She enjoys the collaboration between all disciplines in order to meet the patients therapeutic needs. Heather’s mission is to bless one kiddo at a time, with no greater joy than seeing a child thrive. In her spare time Heather loves spending time with her loved ones, specifically her young daughter; as well as go to the beach, dance, theatre, arts/crafts, and fitness/wellness.
Deirdre O’Malley
Occupational Therapist
Deirdre O’Malley is from New York just outside of NYC and moved to North Carolina in 2021. She graduated from Sacred Heart University in CT with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science with a minor in Psychology in 2018 and her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy in 2021. Deirdre has always enjoyed working with kids, from her time as a coach, camp counselor and now occupational therapist. She loves seeing kids become more confident, engaged and independent in activities that are meaningful and important to them and their families!
When not at work, Deirdre loves finding new parts of North Carolina to explore, exercising on the Peloton, listening to music, going for walks, finding any excuse to get coffee, going out to eat and spending time with family and friends.
Caroline Philbeck
Occupational Therapist
Caroline graduated from East Carolina University in 2021, with a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy and a minor in Psychology. She recently earned her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Presbyterian College, where she completed her Doctoral Capstone on the emerging practice of Neonatal Hydrotherapy. Additionally, Caroline volunteers with the nonprofit, Therapy Across Borders to provide direct therapy services, advocacy, and education for children with disabilities in Kenya.
Caroline has always enjoyed working with kids. While nannying for children with special needs, she discovered the diverse field of occupational therapy. The ability to assist children in meeting their developmental goals through fun, yet meaningful occupations, such as play, is what sparked her passion to be an OT!
Caroline loves spending time with her family, friends, and goldendoodle named Stella. She loves to travel, decorate, and help others in any way that she can!
Suzanne Jenkins
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
Suzanne graduated from Western Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education. She was an Exceptional Children’s teacher for the Rowan-Salisbury schools, where she worked with children (PK-5) with varying disabilities, delays and disorders. She is trained in Orton-Gillingham and Reading foundations. She holds a current NC teaching license in Learning Disabled K-12. She graduated with an Associate degree from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program and is a newly licensed Occupational Therapy Practitioner. She has a true passion for working with children with developmental delays and they bring such great joy to her life! Suzanne is married to Ryan (her Catamount sweetheart), and they live in Salisbury. They have one son, Carter (21) and one daughter, Parker (18). Suzanne enjoys traveling to tropical destinations with her family, spending time with her friends, shopping for shoes, and making fun activities for her kiddos that she works with. She loves to teach kids skills that will help them flourish.
Pediatric Speech Therapy Team
Caroline Brannon
Lead Speech-Language Pathologist
Caroline earned her Bachelor’s in Communication Disorders (2012) and Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology (2014) from Appalachian State University. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and has experience treating a range of conditions across all age groups, including Dysphagia, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Language Disorders. Previously, she worked at CMC Northeast Outpatient Rehabilitation and Rowan-Salisbury Schools, showcasing her passion for helping children communicate effectively and supporting their families. Outside work, Caroline enjoys time with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs, as well as reading, traveling, shopping, and lake outings.
Amy Sauder
Speech-Language Pathologist
Amy moved to North Carolina from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders and Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology. She worked at the University of Pittsburgh Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Center for 10 years as a SLP and Clinical Coordinator. Her experience in multi-disciplinary care shaped her intervention style and prepared her for working in private practice as well as the school system. Amy is passionate about helping young children communicate with their families.
Amy has raised 5 children and has 2 grandchildren. Gardening and cooking occupy most of her free time as well as keeping her dog Leila out of the garden. She is certified by ASHA and is NC Licensed.
Yuliya Orlandini
Lead Speech Language Pathology Assistant
Yuliya began her career in massage therapy. However, early on, she knew she wanted to do more. She’s always loved kids and wanted to do something that would change the world for the better and make an impact. At Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, Yuliya discovered she wanted to become a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. And when she graduated in 2017, she joined our team. She immediately fell in love with the speech and communication world, enjoys working with children, and has since addressed various communication disorders. She finds it very rewarding to see these kids succeed in their communication skills and know she played a part in positively impacting their lives. In her spare time, she plays pickleball, watches Netflix, cares for her two fur babies – Nala and Keke, both cats, and spends time with her two daughters. Yuliya is originally from Ukraine and moved to the United States at seven years old. She has a huge tight-knit family who loves eating traditional Ukrainian dinners together with foods like – Borscht, Plov, and Olivie. For vacation, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her husband, Jayson and her daughters.
Beth Ferriss
Speech Language Pathologist
Beth graduated from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders, and a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from North Carolina Central University. She is a member of the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) with a Certificate of Clinical Competency in Speech Pathology. She is licensed by the North Carolina Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology. She has served in various pediatric settings, including private practice, early intervention, schools, daycares, and in-home visit. Beth has worked with different populations and speech-language disorders, including Articulation and Phonological Disorders, Auditory Processing, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delays, Expressive and Receptive Language Delays, Oral Motor Disorders, and Fluency. Beth also enjoys spending time with her husband, and two kids who are in high school and college. She loves reading, the beach and shopping.
Annie Abbott
Speech Language Pathologist
My name is Annie Abbott. I have worked in the speech and language field since 2004. I was born and raised in a small town in upstate New York. I received my bachelor’s degree from SUNY Cortland. From there I started graduate classes at Ithaca college then, finishing my Master’s degree in speech language and communication disorders majoring in speech pathology at Nova Southeastern University in Florida. I hold my certificate of clinical competence and Speech -language Pathology from ASHA. I have experience with both adult and pediatric population. As well as experience in various settings, including skilled nursing facilities, outpatient settings, hospital, home health. Areas of specialty would include voice treatment, including LSVT focusing on patients with Parkinson’s disease. Experience with dysphagia assessment and treatment as well as experience with swallow instrumentation, including FEES. Experience with patients with cognitive deficits or impairments, implementing strategies for maintaining a level of independence I moved to North Carolina in 2013 and have called it home ever since. My hobbies include gardening, walking, hiking, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends.
Kristine White
Speech Language Pathology Assistant
Kristine has been with Speak To Me since August 2020 and has two children. However, she didn’t start her career in the speech world. Before joining our team, Kristine spent six years in the NC Air National Guard based at the 145th Airlift wing in Charlotte, NC. She also graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice in 2016, and her goal was to work in forensics. But when Kristine had her son that same year, her plans changed. Her interest in communication grew during his journey through speech therapy. She was amazed at his growth in such a short period, and it encouraged her to research the field further. He helped her find her calling, and now, it’s her passion to help little ones learn to communicate better and more effectively. In her role, she can give back to the community and assist other children in finding their voice like her son!
When she’s not working with little ones, Kristine enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking, hiking, kayaking, or going on any other outdoor adventure. She loves finding new experiences and trying cultural foods.
Sharon Butler
Speech Language Pathology Assistant
Sharon moved to North Carolina from the Tampa, Florida area in 2020. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. After many years working in museums in various HR and sales roles, she decided to pursue her passion for Speech Therapy. She was inspired by her son’s journey with Speech Therapy when he was a toddler. She recently graduated from the Speech Language Pathology Assistant program at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute in Hudson, NC. Sharon has previous experience working with children as an online ESL teacher for four years and juggling a busy teaching schedule with three ESL companies. She found teaching very rewarding and teaching ESL. This motivated her to pursue a career in Speech Therapy. Sharon’s other interests are spending time with her husband and three children. She has two sons, one in elementary school and one in high school, and a daughter in college at Western Carolina University. She is also a huge animal lover and loves spoiling her two dogs, Elle and Abby, and her two cats, Natalie and Sammy. She enjoys hiking, anything involving nature, reading, trips to the mountains, and coffee! Sharon is so excited to start her career with the Speak To Me team!
Stephanie Monterroso
Speech Language Pathology Assistant
Stephanie has been with Speak To Me since July 2023 and was a student at Speak To Me since October 2022, while she was completing her degree in SLP-Assistant at Caldwell Community College. She also graduated with a degree in Multidisciplinary Anthropology and Spanish from Appalachian State University in 2019. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Speech and Language Pathology. Her interest in communication grew during her time at Appalachian State University when she started taking ASL classes. Growing up, she has worked with pediatrics in various settings (behavior, education, etc.). It is such a great joy for Stephanie to work with little ones and help them learn how to communicate better. When Stephanie is not working at Speak To Me, she enjoys traveling, going to the mountains, trying new foods, and spending time with her friends, family and boyfriend.
Shanaiya Fletcher, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
Shanaiya was born and raised in Greensboro, NC, Shanaiya is passionate about helping children develop effective communication skills. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 2018 and her Master’s degree from the University of the District of Columbia in 2020. Shanaiya’s journey into speech-language pathology was inspired by her close relationship with her godbrother, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at a young age. This experience ignited her desire to support children with communication challenges. She has dedicated her career to working with children aged 2-12 years, helping them overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Shanaiya is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. She is also licensed by the North Carolina Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology. When she’s not working, Shanaiya enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, indulging in retail therapy, and bonding with her beloved labradoodle, Benji.
Liz Augenreich, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
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CLINIC LOCATION
111 Kilson Drive Suite 104
Mooresville, NC 28117
Telephone: (980) 317-0985
Fax: 704-360-4467
