About Us
Danielle Sutton, M.Sc., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Sandra Akres, M.Sc., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Cathy Lin, M.Sc., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Christie McKinley
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT
Kimberly Chow
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT
Shiza Maqbool
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT
Jessica Lipps
EDUCATION CONSULTANT
& PARENT COACH
Ivy Debinski
ORTON-GILLINGHAM PRACTITIONER
Speech-Language Pathologist Team
Tess Partland, M.Sc., SLP(C), RSLP
FOUNDER & REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Education & Certifications:
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Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, University of British Columbia
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Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science of Language, McMaster University
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Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)
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Registered with College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC (CSHBC)
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Registered Autism Service Provider (RASP)
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Certified Hanen More Than Words® Program Provider
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Certified PEERS® Provider and PEERS® Telehealth Provider
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Trained in Lidcombe Program for stuttering
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Certified NLA-Trained Clinician (Gestalt Language Processing, Echolalia, and Natural Language Acquisition)
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Completing Certification with Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy - AOMT
Background and Experience
Tess Partland is the founder of Harmony Speech Therapy and a dedicated Registered Speech-Language Pathologist. She holds a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of British Columbia and is certified by Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC). Tess is also registered with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of British Columbia (CSHBC).
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With extensive experience supporting toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children, Tess has worked in a variety of settings including clinics, schools, and early childhood centers. She is known for her holistic, play-based, and functional approach to therapy, and is deeply committed to family-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Tess is currently completing her certification in Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy through the Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (AOMT).
She provides personalized therapy to support healthy oral and airway development, addressing concerns such as mouth breathing, improper oral rest posture, tongue thrust, and oral habits like thumb sucking. Tess also offers specialized pre- and post-frenectomy care to enhance outcomes for clients undergoing treatment for tongue or lip ties. Her work helps clients achieve optimal oral function and resting posture—supporting improvements in speech, breathing, sleep, facial growth, and overall communication.
Tess is certified in the Hanen More Than Words® program, supporting parents and caregivers of young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and social communication difficulties.
She is also a PEERS® Certified Provider and Telehealth Provider, delivering evidence-based social skills training to adolescents with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, and other socio-emotional challenges. Tess is a Certified NLA-Trained Clinician and provides support for gestalt language processors, including those who use echolalia, through the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework. She is also trained in the Lidcombe Program, a behavioural treatment for preschool-aged children who stutter.
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In addition to her private practice, Tess works as a Speech-Language Pathologist at the Provincial Assessment Centre with BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services, which serves youth and adults over 14 with developmental disabilities and concurrent mental health challenges. In this role, she collaborates closely with an interdisciplinary team to provide comprehensive assessments and care planning tailored to each client’s unique needs.​
Tess is passionate about creating a welcoming, supportive, and engaging therapy environment where each client feels seen, heard, and empowered to reach their fullest potential in communication and beyond.
Tara Nay, M.A., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Education & Certifications:
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Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology – San Jose State University
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Bachelor of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology – University of Southern Mississippi
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Registered with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC (CSHBC)
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Certified by Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)
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Registered Autism Service Provider (RASP)
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Lee Silverman Voice Therapy (LSVT) LOUD Certified
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Certified SPEAK OUT!® Provider
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Advanced Certification in Videofluoroscopic Assessment & Management of Adult Swallowing Disorders
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Advanced Certification in Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Voice & Swallowing (FEEVS) for Adults
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Certified NLA-Trained Clinician (Gestalt Language Processing, Echolalia, and Natural Language Acquisition)
Background and Experience
Tara Nay is an associate at Harmony Speech Therapy and a compassionate, highly skilled Registered Speech-Language Pathologist. She holds a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from San Jose State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Southern Mississippi. She is certified by Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) and registered with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC (CSHBC).
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Tara brings a strong foundation in adult medical speech-language pathology, with experience in both acute care and inpatient rehabilitation hospital settings. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of swallowing disorders, motor speech impairments (dysarthria, apraxia), aphasia, voice disorders, and cognitive-communication difficulties related to stroke, brain injury, aging, and neurodegenerative conditions. Tara is passionate about evidence-based voice therapy and is certified in LSVT LOUD® and SPEAK OUT!®—two leading treatment programs for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and related disorders.
In addition to her extensive work with adults, Tara provides therapy for pediatric clients with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, articulation disorders, and gestalt language processing needs.
She is a Certified NLA-Trained Clinician and a Registered Autism Service Provider (RASP), offering individualized, play-based therapy that meets children where they are and supports natural language growth. Families appreciate Tara’s ability to build rapport, foster engagement, and deliver practical strategies for home and community success.
Tara also offers accent modification services for clients of all ages who want to enhance their speech clarity and confidence in personal or professional communication.
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She is committed to helping every client—child, teen, or adult—achieve functional, meaningful outcomes that support full participation in daily life.
Alivia Ungaro, M.Sc., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Education & Certifications:
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Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, University of British Columbia
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Registered with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC)
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Certified SPEAK OUT! Provider with the Parkinson Voice Project
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Completing Certified Practice in Videofluoroscopic Assessment & Management of Adult Swallowing Disorders
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Completing Certified Practice in Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Voice & Swallowing (FEEVS) for Adults
Background and Experience
Alivia Ungaro, M.Sc., RSLP is a Registered Speech-Language Pathologist in good standing with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC). She is dedicated to helping individuals improve their communication and swallowing abilities in ways that are meaningful to their lives. Alivia earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of British Columbia and has extensive experience working with adults in outpatient clinical settings.
Alivia began her career with Fraser Health Authority, where she treats adults with a wide range of conditions, including acquired brain injuries such as strokes and traumatic brain injuries, progressive neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, ALS, multiple sclerosis, and dementia, as well as voice disorders. Her clinical specialties include aphasia (language disorder), dysarthria (speech disorder), apraxia of speech, cognitive-communication disorders, voice disorders, and dysphagia (swallowing disorder). She is also a certified SPEAK OUT!® provider with the Parkinson Voice Project, bringing specialized expertise to individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.
In her practice, Alivia takes a client-centred approach, ensuring that therapy goals are relevant to each individual’s priorities and daily life.
She believes that no two clients are the same, and treatment should be tailored to fit each person’s unique needs. Grounded in evidence-based practice, her therapy is both effective and compassionate, empowering clients to reach their full potential.
Passionate, supportive, and motivated, Alivia strives to create a positive and encouraging environment for everyone she works with. She is committed to walking alongside her clients on their journey toward improved communication and quality of life.
Danielle Sutton, M.S., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Education & Certifications:
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Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Speech-Language Pathology, University of Toronto
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Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)
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Registered with College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC (CSHBC)
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Hanen Trained It Takes Two to Talk® Program Provider
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Trained in Lidcombe Program for stuttering
Background and Experience
Danielle Sutton is a caring and experienced Speech-Language Pathologist dedicated to helping individuals of all ages develop strong, confident communication skills. She holds a Master of Health Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Toronto and is certified by Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC). Danielle is also registered with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of British Columbia (CSHBC). Her diverse professional background includes work in schools, hospitals, early childhood centres, and research settings, with extensive experience supporting toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children.
Danielle takes a thoughtful and engaging approach to every session, making learning both effective and enjoyable.
She works closely with children and adults to support speech, language, fluency, and social communication needs, and partners with families to create meaningful, personalized goals. Outside of her clinical work, Danielle enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking local trails, and both playing and watching a variety of sports.
Sandra Akres, M.Sc., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Education & Certifications:
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BA Speech and Hearing Therapy, University of the Witwatersrand South Africa
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Master of Speech Language Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton
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Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)
Registered with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC)
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PROMPT Therapy Certification, Levels 1 and 2; Previously, instructor Level
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Life Coach Program (parts 1 and 2), Coach for Life
Background and Experience
Born and educated in Johannesburg, South Africa, Sandra earned her bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Therapy before moving to Canada over 30 years ago. She completed her master’s degree at the University of Alberta and has built a diverse and rewarding career working with preschool, school-aged, and adult populations. She is certified by Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) and registered with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC (CSHBC).​
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Sandra currently works in a hospital setting, specializing in communication and swallowing disorders with adult populations across the ICU, wards, emergency, and other acute care areas. She is trained and experienced in performing instrumental assessments, including Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) and Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBS).​
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​​Alongside her hospital work, Sandra continues to pursue her passion for working with children. She specializes in articulation, phonology, and motor speech disorders, with a strong clinical interest in PROMPT therapy. Although she no longer teaches as an instructor in this area, she maintains a deep and ongoing commitment to using this tactile–kinesthetic approach to support children’s speech development.​
Her passion for teaching and mentorship has led her to supervise students from the University of British Columbia and contribute to the development of the RADP program at Capilano College.
Sandra is passionate about the work she does and brings a background in coaching that allows her to connect with patients and parents in a respectful, supportive, and approachable manner. When she is not working, you will often find her spending time with family and friends or out walking her dog, Malcolm.
Cathy Lin, M.Sc., SLP(C), RSLP
REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Education & Certifications:
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Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology – University of British Columbia
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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Linguistics - Simon Fraser University
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Registered with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC)
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Certified by Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)
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Member of Speech and Hearing BC (SHBC) Association
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Certified SPEAK OUT!® Provider
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Advanced Certification in Videofluoroscopic Assessment & Management of Adult Swallowing Disorders (VFSS/MBS)
Background and Experience
Cathy is an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist who specializes in supporting adults with improving their communication and swallowing. She holds a Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Linguistics from Simon Fraser University. Cathy is a life-long learner who strives for evidence-based practices and regularly attends Speech-Language Pathology and Neurorehabilitation education to further her practice and ensure she brings the best therapy approaches to her sessions.
Cathy has a wide breadth professional experiences in adult speech-language pathology that spans across acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient rehabilitation settings.
In these roles, Cathy has worked with a variety of client populations including stroke and brain injury survivors and those with neurodegenerative conditions. She is experienced in providing treatment for challenges in language, speech clarity, voice, and swallowing.
As a clinician, Cathy brings a calm, empathetic, and supportive presence to each session and works hard to personalize care for every individual. She empowers her clients to move forward in their treatment journey with confidence, clarity, and support.
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Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Team
Christie McKinley
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT
Christie holds a Master’s degree in Applied Disability Studies and brings a strong background in supporting individuals and families within the disability community. With extensive experience as a behaviour consultant. Christie has worked collaboratively with families, schools, and community organizations to develop and implement individualized, person-centered care.
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As a Speech and Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA), Christie has supported clients in achieving their communication goals through engaging, play-based therapy sessions. She has also led social skills groups, helping clients build meaningful peer connections and develop essential interpersonal skills.
Christie is deeply committed to promoting neurodiversity and creating inclusive environments where all individuals feel safe, valued, and empowered. Her approach is rooted in neuroaffirming care, with a focus on education, advocacy, and fostering a society that embraces and celebrates differences. Driven by a passion for learning and growth, Christie aims to make a positive impact by supporting individuals on their unique communication journeys and contributing to a more inclusive world.
Kimberly Chow
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT
Kimberly is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) with experience supporting children across a wide range of ages and developmental stages. As a Lead Summer Camp Instructor, she developed inclusive programming and guided staff in adapting strategies to meet the diverse needs of participants.
Known for her caring approach, Kimberly creates welcoming and supportive environments where children feel encouraged to grow and succeed. She is currently completing her undergraduate studies in Speech Sciences at the University of British Columbia (UBC), with the goal of becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist and continuing to make a positive impact on children, families, and the community.
Shiza Maqbool
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT
Shiza is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) and is currently completing her Speech Sciences degree at the University of British Columbia, with the goal of becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist.
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Shiza has experience supporting children in clinical and community settings and brings a warm, collaborative, and family-centered approach to her work. She is passionate about fostering communication, confidence, and connection, and feels honoured to support children as they grow and thrive.
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Fluent in English and Urdu, she values the role of culture and language in shaping communication development. Outside of work, Shiza enjoys volunteering in her community, exploring new coffee shops, and spending time with family and friends.
Collaborative Partners
Ivy Debinski
ORTON-GILLINGHAM PRACTITIONER
Ivy Debinski is an Orton-Gillingham trained tutor with over ten years of experience working with children, including more than five years of teaching. She specializes in supporting students with Specific Learning Differences, Autism, and ADHD, and is dedicated to providing individualized, multisensory instruction that strengthens literacy skills while fostering confidence and independence in learners. Currently, Ivy is pursuing graduate studies in the School and Applied Child Psychology program at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where she is expanding her expertise in evidence-based assessment and intervention to better support diverse learners.
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Services provided by Ivy are offered independently and are not speech-language pathology services.
Jessica Lipps
EDUCATION CONSULTANT & PARENT COACH
Jessica Lipps is a mother and educational advocate who holds both U.S. and Canadian teaching credentials.​ She is currently a Ph.D. candidate in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University, where she uses arts-based research methodologies to explore embodied, contemplative, and narrative ways of knowing within the maternal journey. Jessica views the mother as a child’s first teacher—both in utero and beyond—and is passionate about supporting parents in creating homes rooted in care, warmth, and meaningful connection in today’s often overwhelming climate of disconnection.
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Jessica holds a Master’s in Christian Studies and Culture from Regent College (Vancouver) and a Bachelor’s in Education from Trinity International University. She is licensed through the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), the Teacher Regulation Branch of the British Columbia Ministry of Education and Child Care, and the Teacher Qualification Service (TQS).
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She brings a rich blend of arts-based, trauma-informed, and socio-emotional expertise to her work. Currently enrolled in Intensive I: Making Sense of Kids at the Neufeld Institute, Jessica is deepening her study of attachment, maturation, and vulnerability.​ As an educator, theologian, advocate, and mother, she is committed to walking alongside families and schools to build strong advocacy for children and a flourishing parent-to-child attachment for the sake of both parent and child.
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Services provided by Jessica are offered independently and are not speech-language pathology services.