EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR A MESSAGE FROM THE
It has been a busy and exciting summer at TLC! Thank you for your patience as we finalize the details of our new location on Piccard Drive. To celebrate this major milestone, we held an Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, graciously hosted by the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce. The event was a tremendous success and provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our progress and the positive impact we've made in our community. We were also thrilled to unveil a dedicated art space showcasing the incredible talent of Ephraim, our resident artist for many years, and a valued member of the TLC community. Our last large project is a playground that’s currently in construction adjacent to the Piccard building.
Another initiative we're proud to share is our updated mission, vision, and values statements, which emphasize our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Our mission for indivuals with disabilities and longstanding advocacy for full community inclusion is now more fully reflected in our vision and values. We are continually striving to ensure that every member of our community feels valued and supported.
We also had the joy of celebrating 17 graduates from The Katherine Thomas School (KTS) on June 20th! Each graduate delivered heartfelt, insightful, and inspiring speeches reflecting on their KTS journey. It was a day filled with pride, celebration, and hope for the bright futures ahead of our newest grads.
Our Summer Program had an amazing season, with 50 children participating in our 7-week adventure! Alongside our incredible occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists, we were thrilled to welcome some special guests. We trained to be superheroes with Mr. Incredible, learned water safety from Bubbles the Goldfish, and got into the groove with Mr. Joe’s singalong! It was a summer full of fun, learning, and unforgettable moments.
The Katherine Thomas School students enjoyed many summer program acitivties, including academic learning, internships, employment exploration, field trips, independent living skills, and community service activies, to name a few. Our students, faculty, and staff return for our new school year with the theme “Ignite Your Fire.”
Looking ahead to the fall, our Outpatient Departments will offer free speechlanguage and occupational therapy screenings. The Outcomes Service will continue to provide programs that help our participants find and maintain employment, enabling them to become active members of the community.
Wishing everyone a fantastic fall season!
Warm regards,
Patricia Ritter, Ph.D. Executive Director
The Treatment and Learning Centers
C E L E B R A T I N G T H E
G R A N D O P E N I N G O F
T L C ’ S N E W P I C C A R D
D
R I
V E L O C A T I O N
On June 13, 2024, the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce hosted a memorable ribbon-cutting event at TLC’s new Piccard location! We were thrilled to have Marji Graf, President and CEO of the Chamber, welcome the attendees and introduce community leaders who shared their appreciation for TLC’s work. Our Board President, Sarah Garnett, and Executive Director, Dr. Patricia Ritter, also took the stage to express their excitement for this new chapter before officially cutting the ribbon.
The event was filled with lively conversations as guests enjoyed lunch and toured our new facilities. A highlight of the tour was the art space, which featured the remarkable work of Ephraim, a talented member of the TLC community.
We’re grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating this milestone and look forward to continuing our work in this beautiful new space!
R E T I R E M E N T O F T L C ’ S
L O N G T I M E E M P L O Y E E S :
J U L I E B O B R O W A N D
Current and past members of the TLC community honored TLC Administrative Office super star employee Julie Bobrow, who retired in February after over 40 years of service at TLC. Her impact was felt in every corner of our community. People described Julie as “Inspirational,” “Dedicated,” “Professional,” and “The Heartbeat of TLC.”
Current and former TLC staff gathered to celebrate Susan Yaffe-Oziel, Director of The Family Hearing Center, as she prepares to retire after 26 years of dedicated service. In recognition of her unwavering commitment, and with deep respect and appreciation from her friends at TLC, a donation of over $650 was made to Helping Others Hear in her honor. Words used to desribed Susan include “Very Caring,” “Kind,” and “Compassionate,” and “Rare Gem,” to name a few.
SPEECH-LANGUAGEAND OCCUPATIONALTHERAPY
Screenings
Screenings are by appointment only!
301-424-5200 ext.159 or Outpatientscheduling@ttlc.org
About TLC: A Legacy of Care Since 1950
TLC is a private, non-profit organization offering evaluations, speech-language and occupational therapies, feeding therapy, voice therapy, social groups, testing, tutoring, and counseling, and summer programs Our experienced therapists are experts in working with a variety of diagnoses, ensuring every child gets the care they need
TLC is conveniently located in Rockville, MD
1390 Piccard Dr, Suite 210 Rockville, MD 20850
Red Flags
Struggling with handwriting, coloring, drawing, or cutting. Clumsiness and difficulty learning new motor tasks. Bothered by tags in clothing.
Annoyed by messy hands and fingers.
Difficulty following directions.
Trouble pronouncing sounds or words correctly and/or using correct grammar.
Voice that is hoarse or too quiet.
OUTPATIENT SERVICES
Speech-Language Pathology | Occupat
Robyn Davy of TLC Presents at Bethesda Pediatrics: When to Refer for Treatment in Childhood Anxiety
In July 2024, Robyn Davy, Counseling Supervisor at TLC, presented to a small group of doctors at Bethesda Pediatrics on anxiety and specifically “when to refer for treatment.” Robyn reviewed current research on rising rates of anxiety comorbid with other disorders in children & adolescents, and the differences between “adaptive” anxiety and “clinical” anxiety. Books, resources, school supports, parenting strategies, and resiliency were all explored with this small group.
Meet Mariah Kanakia, MS, CCC-SLP: New Director of Outpatient Speech and Summer Programs
Mariah Kanakia, MS, CCC-SLP, is the Director of Outpatient SLP and Summer Programs. She has been working as a speech-language pathologist since 2015. She has extensive experience evaluating and treating pediatric-aged clients and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized plans of care. Ms. Kanakia has worked in various settings, including outpatient clinics, private practice, clinic and home-based early intervention, and interdisciplinary autism centers. Her passion is providing evidence-based client care, with a focus on targeting functional goals and caregiver coaching.
Mariah has trainings in Promoting First Relationships ®, the SOS Approach to Feeding, Guided Oral Movements with Active Patterning for Infant/Toddler Feeding (GoMAP), Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), the DIR®/Floortime™ Model, Kaufman Method for Childhood Apraxia, a variety of Alternative-Augmentative Devices (AAC), and Hanen programs (It Takes Two to Talk®, More Than Words®, and TalkAbility™). Ms. Kanakia holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Washington. She is affiliated with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
OUTPATIENT SERVICES
Speech-Language Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Testing, Tutoring, & Counseling
2024 Summer Camp: Fun in
the Sun (and Shade, Too)!
Our Summer Program had an extraordinary season, with 50 children joining us for a 7-week adventure! With the support of our dedicated occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists, we also welcomed some exciting special guests. The children became superheroes with Mr. Incredible, learned water safety from Bubbles the Goldfish, and sang along with Mr. Joe. It was a summer filled with fu l i d f tt bl i !
OUTPATIENT SERVICES
Speech-Language Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Testing, Tutoring, & Counseling
Tina Morrissey Appointed as Director of Compliance: Leveraging 20+ Years of Expertise in Speech-Language Pathology and Leadership
With over 20 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist and a decade in leadership as the Director of Speech-Language Pathology at TLC, Tina Morrissey has demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication to the field. Their extensive background includes a robust understanding of HIPAA regulations and a proven track record in leading teams effectively.
Tina is excited to transition to their new role as Director of Compliance, where she will leverage her deep knowledge of regulatory standards and leadership skills to ensure our organization's adherence to all compliance requirements. Her commitment to excellence and passion for fostering a compliant and efficient environment make Tina a valuable asset to our team in this new capacity.
TLC Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Intensive Therapy Week With Adults Who Use Speech Generating Devices
Denise Bryant, M.A., CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist, TLC
Adult clients who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems participated in a week of AAC intensive therapy activities. Activities were organized around themes including Cooking, Chores, Exercise and Health, and Leisure Activities. Clients learned to listen to their peers when they initiated a question or communicated something using their AAC devices. The group work gave them opportunities to share materials, work cooperatively, and initiate and respond to each other’s communication. Favorite activities included decorating our Olympic room and role playing scenarios as they learned to use their AAC devices to advocate for their needs.
The client’s caregivers also participated in the therapeutic activities and were given resources to use in the home environment including “Get Ready, Do, Done” visual supports, picture symbols for task sequences, and video modeling resources.
OUTPATIENT SERVICES
Speech-Language Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Testing, Tutoring, & Counseling
Continuing Our Partnership: TLC Enters Second Year of Occupational Therapy Services at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School
TLC will be entering our second year providing Occupational Therapy services at the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School in Potomac, MD, this September. Last school year, we provided screenings, comprehensive evaluations, and individualized treatments during the school day. It is their policy that the children do not miss their core curriculum courses, ensuring that they are able to continue thriving academically while receiving this additional service.
A child is referred to Occupational Therapy services by their teacher or parent secondary to concerns observed within the classroom setting or home environment. Concerns can include, however are not limited to; challenges with attention or following the classroom routine, completing handwriting or cutting, dressing tasks (zippers, buttons, shoelaces), strengthening of their body or hands, organization of their school materials, and/or big emotions experienced (anger, anxiety, sadness) and assistance with development of coping strategies. After being referred, the child engages in a 15–30-minute Occupational Therapy screening to identify any further developmental areas of concern. If a full, comprehensive evaluation is recommended, this evaluation is completed within their regular school day to identify goals prior to the weekly therapy sessions.
Because services are provided by school, the Occupational Therapist can easily collaborate with the child’s teacher and resource director to provide accommodations for writing, seating, and/or processing of emotions and development of peer relationships as needed.
We are looking forward to another year of collaboration with the families of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School.
Kathryn McGinnis, M.S., OTR/L Occupational Therapist, TLC
OUTPATIENT SERVICES
Speech-Language Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Testing, Tutoring, & Counseling
College Organization and Time Management: Tips and Tools for Success
Jennifer Joseph Tutor, TLC
Congratulations! You are off to or returning to college! Many new and current college students find they are struggling to manage their work load, fun activities, sleep schedule, schoolwork and extracurricular activities. You must now level up your skills to meet college standards. You are now in control of your schedule and this presents a challenge for some. Some seem to effortlessly glide through their college semesters with ease and high grades. Read on to learn more information to be able to glide with greater ease.
Let’s start with some important questions How are you feeling about yourself? Self-awareness is key to college success Make certain to establish strong relationships with your parent(s)/guardian/other trusted adult to discuss important issues. One more question to ask yourself: How do you motivate yourself? There are many different
answers to that question and many different ways to achieve motivation How you motivate yourself will help you decide how to plan your schedule, e.g., do you reward yourself with food and therefore should plan to do the most work before your meals? Does competition motivate you? If so, maybe you plan to work with a study partner before tests for a little friendly competition?
General Information
If you have a diagnosis and will require academic accommodations, ask for them each semester and/or year
You will have to advocate for yourself for everything in college - nothing will be handed to you. Learn about campus resources like a Learning Center or subject tutoring as it is available to all students. Once you identify where and
how to get assistance, use the tutoring help EVERY time you encounter tough subject matter.
Learn your professor’s office hours including location, then make sure to visit the professor with any questions or concerns Remember, professors get paid whether you attend class or not, pass or fail a class, or turn in your assignments or not. Working with a friend or classmate acting as a partner to keep each other accountable can be helpful. Knowing someone in your classes is helpful for notes, discussing assignments, etc. Make sure you know their phone number and email address.
It is ALWAYS advisable to be sitting in an upright position at a desk or table when doing schoolwork. Lying in bed while working is an invitation for a nap!
Organization
Organizing your time, materials, dorm room and schoolwork will enable you to have full control over your environment and life.
After you have finished your schoolwork each day, put all materials in your backpack and place your backpack, jacket and anything else you will need in a high visibility area Each week on Friday and Sunday, organize all school papers and online assignments and create a study plan for the week or weekend ahead. Set up a standard bedtime and wakeup time for each weekday. Doing so will establish a routine allowing you to feel rested and ready to tackle the day. Bring your paper planner to every class to write necessary information in the moment. OR Use an app to track your assignments. Add necessary information in the app after each class Create a paper or digital weekly and monthly calendar, add classes, schoolwork/study time, due dates, bed time, wake up time, meals, exercise, fun activities, and extracurricular activities. Plan ahead each week
including a designated location like a lab, dining hall, library, dorm room, or lounge area.
When a teacher assigns reading in a novel or textbook to be completed over multiple days, do not wait until the night before to begin reading. Divide the total number of sections/pages by the total number of days available to break down the assignment and note taking over multiple days. It will appear to take much less time each day if you read and take notes in smaller segments.
If the course syllabus lists all semester assignments, including due dates. You can plan long term for each assignment by looking ahead and planning backwards. Here are some proposed long term time periods: Late AugustMid October; Mid OctoberThanksgiving; After Thanksgiving - Mid December When taking notes for math, history, language, etc classes, create a study sheet as you take notes: Write the term or vocabulary word, concept, etc. on the left hand side of paper. Write the explanation of the term on the left hand side of
the backside of paper. Make sure to write the term and explanation on the same line on each side. Write vocabulary out of alphabetical order as you will learn the words individually
Time Management
Welcome to the joys of college life! Now you are in classes about 4 hours a day and must learn how to plan the rest of your day and entire week. Learning how to plan your day includes time for assignments, studying, meals with new friends and fun!
Professors will circulate their course syllabus at the beginning of the semester Always read the entire document as it contains valuable information such as assignment information and due dates, grading policy, number of missed days allowed, grading scale, office hours, class materials, and date to drop the class penalty free.
Email the professor if you know you might fall behind on an assignment(s) with or without accommodations. Most professors will be receptive if you ask in advance Ask for an extension on an assignment ahead of time If you get sick, email the professor and let him/her/they know you will be turning in the assignment late. Setting expectations lets your professor know you are a responsible student.
Time Management (continued)
Knowing what time of day you do your best work helps you to determine the best time to tackle your hardest or easiest subjects or assignments. Be flexible about your workload or studying depending upon your schedule for a given day and/or week
Plan specific time blocks to work on assignments and study.
Try to accomplish as much schoolwork as possible before dinner when you can.
When you must do schoolwork after dinner, make a plan detailing what work you will tackle before and after dinner. Schedule regular breaks for every 45 minutes (5 minutes) to 1 hour (15 minutes) spent working Scheduling regular breaks allows for better productivity and allows you to accomplish more work in a specific period of time.
Be proactive and realistic about when you will start and complete an assignment. Be realistic about how much time an assignment will actually require to work on, complete and turn in. For example, if you think it will take 30 minutes, plan on an hour just in case your estimate was not realistic
Choose less distracting study locations. Schedule study and schoolwork time. Hold yourself accountable to the established schedule. Check in with your accountability partner regularly. Keep in mind these questions when you are setting up your schedule.
When will I study or work on assignments?
How long is the study session? How often will I take a break? How long is the break?
What will be I be working on?
Where will I work? Dorm room? Library? Somewhere else?
Tests and Quizzes Preparation
Start reviewing class materials, online or written, when you have been working in the unit for about 2 weeks as a test or quiz is likely imminent Be prepared before the teacher mentions a test or quiz Watch out for the teachers who like to spring a pop quiz on their classes.
Mid-Terms and Finals Preparation
Take stock of all materials, paper and online, for each class. Start studying about 1 month before the start of finals.
Create a daily/weekly study schedule. Study one subject each day for about an hour on weekdays and about 2 hours for 2 subjects on each weekend day. As finals approach, study for
Mid-Terms and Finals Preparation (Continued)
longer periods of time. Study the oldest units first and most often as they are the least familiar units. Study handmade study sheets for each unit (referenced at the end of the Organization section).
Retake tests/quizzes to test your knowledge When re-reading from textbooks, make it active by summarizing a section, explain the bolded definitions and/or answer any accompanying content questions to test your knowledge. Do not fill in teacher provided study guides, instead write answers on notebook paper so you can practice learning the content repeatedly. Don’t wait until one week before finals to begin studying to reduce stress and improve your performance.
Succeeding in college requires balancing class time, allowing ample time to complete schoolwork, getting enough sleep to feel rested, getting time time to spend with new friends, and participating in extracurricular activities. Learning and utilizing new organization, time management, and study skills will enable you to work smart and experience academic success. Get organized and glide through college with greater ease!
Below is a list of popular calendaring, note taking and to do list apps.
Todoist
https://todoist.com
Google Calendar
https://www.google.com/calendar/about/
(From: https://www.calendar.com/blog/20-essential-apps-for-college-students/)
Apple Calendar
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/calendar/id1108185179
Outlook Calendar
https://outlook.live.com/owa/? state=1&redirectTo=aHR0cHM6Ly9vdXRsb29rLmxpdmUuY29tL2NhbGVuZGFyLw
My Study Life
https://www.mystudylife.com
Scheduling/Timetabling
Good Notes
https://www.goodnotes.com
Microsoft OneNote
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/onenote/digital-note-taking-app? ms.url=onenotecom&rtc=1
Evernote
https://evernote.com
Apple Pencil
https://www.apple.com/apple-pencil/?afid=p238%7COdmwBbIVdc_ mtid_1870765e38482_pcrid_78271660945010_pgrid_1252344191462985_&cid=aos-uskwbi-btbapplepencil--slid---product-
Notability
https://pcmacstore.com/en/app/736189492/notability
OUTPATIENT SERVICES
Speech-Language Pathology | Occupational Therapy | Testing, Tutoring, & Counseling
Neuropsychological or Comprehensive Evaluation What’s the difference??
Sarah Towne, Psy.D. Psychologist, TLC
In the TT&C department, we often get questions from families about the differences between a neuropsychological evaluation and our standard comprehensive evaluation. So, we’ve asked our intake coordinator to provide us with a list of questions often asked by parents. Below are our answers to commonly asked questions.
What are the similarities and differences between a neuropsychological evaluation and a comprehensive evaluation?
We generally use all the same testing materials for both evaluations. Both tests will include some assessment of intellectual ability (IQ), as well as executive functioning, and behavioral measures. However, depending on the questions you have about your child, we may also look at their academic skills, memory and learning, and/or attention. So, in many ways, the three or four days of actual testing with your child will look the same regardless of “type” of evaluation that is conducted. The biggest difference between the two types of evaluations is how the report is structured. A neuropsychological evaluation looks at the different regions in the brain and how incoming information is processed within those regions; so, the report is organized in this same way. For example, there will be a visual spatial section with all of the subtests that assess visual spatial skills together regardless of the measure we used to assess them. In contrast, a psycho-educational evaluation focuses on broader categories of intellect, academic performance, and behavioral factors. The report is structured in that way with the IQ section forming the “foundation” from which all other tests are compared. Overall, both types of evaluations offer significant value to you and to your child’s teacher, it’s just a matter of how best to answer and explain your concerns.
So, why don’t we just call all of our evaluations neuropsychological?
We call them different things because they employ different methods for interpreting the information that is obtained through the testing.
So, why don’t we just call all of our evaluations neuropsychological (continued)?
Neuropsychology is a specialty field that requires that the clinician have specific training in the field of neuropsychology. One places greater emphasis on what happens in the brain when information is coming at your child (input), while the other focuses on broad based patterns of performance (output).
So, when would a neuropsychological be more appropriate and how can I determine which would be the most beneficial for my child?
Here are several considerations we may use when helping you determine between a neuropsychological and a comprehensive evaluation.
If your child has a significant number of challenges, across many different brain regions (e.g., language, visual, attention, memory and executive, etc.), all of which are impacting academic success, a neuropsychological evaluation is likely to be more appropriate and useful.
If your child has a medical disorder that complicates intellectual, executive, or attentional functioning, we’d probably recommend a neuropsychological evaluation, or depending on the severity of the condition, we may even recommend seeing a specialist first.
If you’ve had other psychoeducational evaluations but your child continues to struggle and there does not seem to be a “good reason” for it.
Finally, what if I have questions about autism in my child but no academic concerns, would a neuropsychological evaluation cover that?
Yes, but it may not be necessary. We can answer questions about autism with a focused comprehensive evaluation. While autism certainly has significant impacts on neurological functioning, it is diagnosed based on patterns of social interactions and social communication, along with behavioral characteristics. These can be made with either type of evaluation.
We understand that any evaluation is a serious undertaking, both in the time needed to complete the assessment and in cost. As clinicians who are committed to providing you and your child with the best possible care, we are happy to work with you and help you decide what is the best, most cost effective option for addressing your concerns and meeting the needs of your child.
THE OUTCOMES SERVICE
On August 8, 2024, TLC Outcomes held a highly successful panel presentation hosted by Morgan Stanley, aimed at guiding job seekers on the path to career success. The event, held from 11:00 a m to 12:00 noon, attracted over 20 participants, including members of the Supported Employment Group, Work Adjustment Training Group, and Workplace Success Program for high school students transitioning to the workforce.
Welcome and Introductions
The session was warmly welcomed by Morgan Stanley’s David Olanbiwonnu, a TLC Board Member, who set the tone for an engaging and informative discussion. TLC’s Executive Director, Patricia Ritter, Ph.D., and Karen Morgret provided additional insights into TLC Outcomes and its commitment to supporting individuals on their employment journey.
Panel of Experts
Moderated by Lisa Ziv, the panel featured a diverse group of experts from Morgan Stanley: Joseph Chiovitti
Melissa Johnson
Deepti Chhiber
Krystal Ward
Phil Brittain
These seasoned professionals shared valuable
knowledge and practical tips on various aspects of job searching, interviewing, and workplace success.
Presentation Highlights
The presentation revolved around critical themes essential for anyone navigating the job market:
1. Crafting an Effective Resume
- Tailoring Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job by highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
- Clear Structure: Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
- Quantifiable Achievements: Include specific accomplishments that demonstrate your contributions.
2. Interview Preparation
- Research: Understand the company by visiting its website
- Interview Practice: Rehearse common interview questions.
- Narrative: Develop a compelling story of your experiences and achievements.
- Questions for the Employer: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview.
THE OUTCOMES SERVICE
3. Understanding Accommodations
- Legal Rights: Be aware of laws like the ADA that mandate reasonable accommodations.
- Requesting Accommodations: Approach your employer with a clear request for adjustments.
6. Embracing DEI in the Workplace
- Employer Responsibilities: Employers are required to provide accommodations unless it causes undue hardship.
4. Developing Soft Skills
- Communication: Practice effective communication and active listening
- Teamwork: Collaborate with respect and contribute to group efforts.
- Problem-Solving: Show your ability to think critically and resolve challenges.
5. Navigating the Job Search
- Networking: Build professional relationships through events and social media.
- Read the Job Advertisement: Address key points from the job listing in your application.
- Online Presence: Maintain an updated LinkedIn profile and other professional accounts.
- Diversity: Value the unique perspectives each employee brings.
- Equity: Ensure fair treatment and opportunities for all.
- Inclusion: Foster a culture where everyone feels respected and valued.
7. Mastering Workplace Behaviors
- Punctuality and Reliability: Be on time and meet deadlines
- Respect and Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanor and address conflicts appropriately
- Adaptability: Be flexible and open to change in a dynamic work environment.
Conclusion
One of the most powerful takeaways from the presentation was Morgan Stanley’s message that "Everyone has their own Superpower." This concept encouraged attendees to recognize and embrace their unique strengths, such as leadership, empathy, and adaptability, as key assets in their job search and career.
As one attendee, who has been out of work and is looking to return to the workforce, shared, "I never thought of it that way. I do have a superpower I can offer someone. This gives me a whole new way of looking at my job search."
By applying the insights from this presentation, job seekers can enhance their career prospects, contribute positively to their workplaces, and foster an inclusive and equitable environment.
THE FAMILY HEARING CENTER
A Goodbye Letter from the FHC Director: Susan Yaffe-Oziel
Dear Patients,
On August 31, I retired from my position as the Director of TLC’s Family Hearing Center. After much consideration, I feel that now is the right time for me to focus on my personal interests and spend time with my family.
It has been a privilege and a pleasure to be part of TLC for the past 26 years, and I am very grateful for the relationships I have built with my patients and colleagues. Many of you are like family to me. We’ve shared many joyful moments together, and I will truly miss our conversations, whether they were personal or related to your hearing health care.
I will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition, but please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of you the achievements we have shared will always be cherished.
Farewell to Joanna Kolker and Welcome to Sonya Hochevar at The Family Hearing Center
Hearing Loss Support Groups at Ingleside and Asbury Village Pause for Summer, Resuming This Fall
The Hearing Loss support groups at Ingleside and Asbury Village are wrapping up for the summer, with plans to resume this Fall. These groups met monthly to focus on developing coping strategies for individuals with hearing loss. We look forward to continuing the journey together in the coming season.
Joanna Kolker, our dedicated audiology assistant at The Family Hearing Center, worked her last day on August 2nd as she embarks on her journey to pursue graduate studies in Audiology.
We’re excited to welcome our new front desk assistant, Sonya Hochevar, who has already started and is doing an excellent job. Welcome aboard, Sonya!
THE KATHERINE THOMAS SCHOOL
New School Year New Theme
The week of August 36th, we welcomed KTS faculty and staff to the start of the 2024-2025 school year The first meeting of the year was filled with “flames” This year's theme is "Ignite Your Fire" bringing energy, passion and purpose to the students and yourself. The KTS Parent Association supported the theme with a room full of “firey” decorations. Note the special designer jackets worn by Pat, Rhona, and Nicole.
TheKatherineThomasSchool Class of 2024
We are so proud of our 17 graduates from TLC's The Katherine Thomas School who celebrated their High School Graduation on Thursday, June 20th!
nd
of School Year
Celebrations
E ered insightful, heart-warming, and inspirational speeches about their KTS experience. It was a beautiful day filled with celebration and joy. The future looks bright for our newest grads!
5th and 8th Grade Promotion Ceremonies
Congratulations to our 5th and 8th grade students on their promotion! We’re incredibly proud of you!
The Treatment & Learning Centers
Our Mission
To improve lives and expand possibilities for individuals with disabilities.
Our Vision
To be a highly visible, leading-edge organization with strong collaborative and advocacy relationships, and plentiful resources that support quality programs, staff, and facilities for individuals with disabilities. TLC strives to create an environment where everyone belongs, has equal access, and an opportunity to thrive.
Our Values
We value quality
We value innovation and growth
We value diversity, equity and inclusion
We value each other