Stories

Teaching and training the next generation of speech-language pathologists is something we're passionate about at CCLLC. That's why we regularly bring in graduate students to our practice for internships and externships as they work toward gaining their master's degree in Speech Pathology. Our director, Jennifer D'Attilio, directly supervises each graduate student, teaching and mentoring them through our evidence-based approach to therapy.

At CCLLC, we help expose graduate students to a variety of therapy techniques ranging from pediatric feeding therapy to adult speech therapy for Parkinson's disease, brain injury and aphasia. Our hope is to help foster graduate students' own passion and drive to excellence. One of our former graduate students, Sabrina Hogan, CCC-SLP, first came to us in 2018 as a graduate student from San Jose State University and is now a speech-language pathologist specializing in pediatric feeding. She recently opened her own private practice and agreed to answer some questions about her time at CCLLC. 

What was your experience like working under Jennifer's supervision?

Jennifer was an amazing mentor. What I loved about my externship experience was that Jennifer provided me with the opportunity to jump right into learning. Her teaching method was very effective; she demonstrated a treatment skill, set a clear expectation, and then allowed me to use the skill. Whether I was successful or needed guidance, Jenn provided immediate, constructive feedback. As someone who tends to overanalyze, I truly appreciated the way she inspired me to find confidence in executing newly acquired treatment skills.

How did your time at CCLLC benefit you?

My experience at CCLLC has benefited me in so many ways, but one of the most important things I learned from Jennifer is to think critically. I will never forget when she asked me, "Sabrina, what do you think about this case?" She didn't ask as if she was testing me, rather, she really wanted me to think about the client and deeply analyze what I had observed. I learned to consider the big picture of what might be going on with a client. As students, we tend to have a narrow focus; at CCLLC I learned to expand my critical thinking skills, which is extremely important as a professional in the field.

What are you currently doing with your career?

I was previously working at a private pediatric clinic in Cupertino and loved working with children in speech and language. Currently, I have embarked on a new journey starting my own small private practice with a focus on feeding therapy.

How did you discover your interest in pediatric feeding?

I first learned about feeding therapy during my time working as a speech pathology assistant back in 2011. I worked at a pediatric feeding clinic and found my passion helping children with pediatric feeding disorders and their families to expand their food repertoire. My interest in feeding therapy was fostered by Jennifer and Courtney [a former speech language pathologist] at CCLLC. Jennifer taught me about newborn and infant feeding therapy, which was a wonderful new experience. Courtney coached me in feeding therapy with toddlers. There is nothing more rewarding than helping clients acquire feeding skills and adding new foods to their plate. Since my time at CCLLC, I have gained additional knowledge and skills pertaining to assessing and treating pediatric feeding disorders. 

In your opinion, what value do graduate students offer patients and families?

Graduate students have learned the most up-to-date, research-based treatments and are able to apply those to clients under the direct supervision of more experienced speech-language therapists. Patients can be reassured that they are getting in-depth care by a graduate student and their mentor. Think of it as getting two experts with combined knowledge for the price of one.