Hello! I'm Desiree, and for the past 18 years, I have worked as an SLP with the most amazing children and families in a variety of settings, including, the public school system (Pre-k through 12), private practice and through contracting work. Being a part of Mind by Design is exciting, because each client has access to an array of resources. Being able to meet the needs of each child, and to meet them where they are at, is always my goal. 

Educational Background 

Without knowing it at the time, I began my journey as an SLP at the age of 18. I worked as an aide in an SDC class, and was able to interact with all of the wonderful professionals that supported the students. I was able to observe, ask questions and soak up valuable knowledge. I worked with the same group of students for four years, and I will never forget the day that a long time student turned and looked me in the eyes and said ‘Oh Hello Miss Desiree’. It was the first time in four years that this particular student engaged in direct conversation with me. It was such a profound moment in my life, and it still brings tears to my eyes to this day. Moments like these ultimately led me in the direction of Speech and Language Pathology.

I began my course work at Deanza college, then transferred to San Jose State University. It was there that I completed my bachelors degree in Communicative Disorders and Sciences, as well as my masters degree in Speech and Language Pathology and Audiology. Upon graduation I took a position in the public school system, working with children from preschool age through the twelfth grade. Concurrently, I worked part time at a private practice, as well as provided speech and language services to home school based students.