research overview
- My current research combines clinical and theoretical questions. Clinical topics include language, voice, and communication issues associated with Smith-Magenis syndrome, autoimmune encephalitis, hearing loss and use of cochlear implants, voice affirmation/LGBTQ+ community, and communication needs in other medical and/or congenital conditions such as Sanfilippo Syndrome or MPS IIIA. I am involved in the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Outreach project for adolescents with complex commination needs and conduct research impairment and clinical profiles of children and adults with complex disabilities or unusual clinical profiles (including autoimmune encephalitis, Smith-Magenis Syndrome. My previous research focused on understanding reading impairment and learning to read a new orthography. My investigations focused on the role of individual phonological skill on foreign language learning and representation of speech sounds in the auditory cortex and comparing representation in individuals who use difference languages and those with and without reading impairment. I theorize that organization of the auditory cortex plays a critical role in the foundation of reading ability. Overall, my research aims to advance our knowledge of the factors that contribute to language, communication, and reading skill and advance methods for clinical and educational methods to have those with special needs in language and communication.
