FROM the desk of
Kendra McAlear, CScD, CCC-SLP
Adult and Geriatric Specialist

Hi, I’m Kendra.

Welcome to my speech therapy practice’s website.

In 2015, after nearly 20 years as a practicing speech-language pathologist (SLP), I became a student again. I moved from Colorado to Pennsylvania, enrolling at the University of Pittsburgh to pursue a doctorate in medical speech-language pathology. 

Why?

“ANCORA IMPARO” — This is an Italian phrase that means “I am still learning.”

It’s inscribed on a necklace of mine that reminds me no matter how far I have come in life, whether professional or personal, there is always more to learn. 

One of the things I love about being a speech-language pathologist is that no two patients are the same. Each patient brings their own unique history, personality, and life experience in addition to the speech, language, or swallowing problem that brings them to me. I love the challenge of the new, the unexpected, the unforeseen. 

My patients, not my continuing education courses, are often my best teachers. I love that!

I have worked in most settings that employ speech-language pathologists (SLPs), including acute care, inpatient and outpatient rehab, home healthcare, hospice, and a state university. 

I also have a wealth of experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse populations. 

In grad school at the University of Texas I earned bilingual/multicultural specialization and became a certified medical interpreter at Poudre Valley Hospital. 

I have lived in 13 states and 3 countries, in large urban areas and rural countryside. In my first job out of grad school I treated a patient who spoke only French. My proficiency in Spanish allowed me to treat both children and adults in that language in Texas and Colorado. 

The experiences and advanced skills I learned during my doctoral studies vastly expanded my knowledge and enthusiasm for my field, and gave me new tools to help my patients.

If you’re hoping to overcome swallowing difficulties, speech or language problems after a stroke, speech and swallowing problems after treatment for head and neck cancer, speech and/or cognitive impairment related to Parkinson’s Disease, or cognitive difficulties arising from brain injury or dementia, please contact me.

I do not take a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Each patient is unique; each case is different.

Let’s discuss how, together, we might learn how best to approach your particular concerns, customize your care, and overcome the communication or swallowing barriers that are keeping you from living your best life!

I look forward to speaking with you.

— Kendra