Meet our Therapists
 

  Tara Johnson, Speech-Language Pathologist/Therapy Services Director

Tara has been a speech-language pathologist for over 7years. She received a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences, and a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from Ohio University. Tara has worked with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities in a variety of settings, including preschool, public and private schools, and outpatient clinic. Her professional experience and training include evaluation, programming, and implementation of various forms of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), social skills training, SOS Approach to Feeding, and using books to support language and literacy development. Tara has a passion for creating and implementing visual supports and low and high-tech AAC systems to assist each child to communicate to his/her highest potential.

  Robin McMahon, Occupational Therapist

Robin has a bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Mathematics and Occupational Therapy from The Ohio State University. She was certified and first licensed as an OT in 1995. She has served children with a wide variety of developmental, sensory processing and autism spectrum disorders in neuro-rehabilitation, child psychiatric settings and in various local school districts.  Her passion includes empowering children to “do their best” by providing that just right level of challenge that maximizes success in a safe environment. She believes that use of sensory integration theory, current brain research and neuro developmental techniques in play based intervention can have a powerful impact on children’s school, play and social competence. Additional training includes visual/ vestibular/auditory integration techniques (the astronaut program), multisensory fine motor and handwriting “handwriting without tears”, the alert program, brain gym and oral/motor sensory mealtime strategies.   She believes all children have an innate desire to do their best and will rise to that expectation given the right environment with plenty of environmental/sensory support, praise and safe opportunities to challenge themselves. She is thrilled to be a part of the amazing team at The Learning Spectrum.  

 Amanda Rhodes, Occupational Therapist

Amanda received a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, and a Master of Occupational Therapy from The University of Findlay. Amanda has had a variety of experience working with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities. Her experience includes working in schools, outpatient, home health, and acute inpatient care. Amanda is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association. She is excited to join the wonderful team at The Learning Spectrum and looks forward to working with the children and families of The Learning Spectrum.

  Leslie Shoecraft, Music Therapist

Leslie is an experienced musician and clinician, and thrives on the opportunity to use music to affect positive change. She is a board-certified music therapist with over 5 years of professional experience. Leslie has provided services for both children and adults with a variety of developmental delays, autism, and psychiatric diagnoses while working in clinic and hospital settings, as well as home-based therapy.  Leslie is skilled on piano, guitar, and is an accomplished soprano.  Leslie has presented multiple workshops on music therapy for colleagues and other professionals. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy as well as a minor in Psychology from Ohio University, and is a member of the American Music Therapy Association and the Ohio Association of Music Therapists.