Melanie grew up in a Russian-English speaking home as her family immigrated here from Uzbekistan. Melanie received her undergraduate degree in Spanish and Communication Disorders from the University of Connecticut and her graduate degree in Speech Pathology from Teachers College at Columbia University. Melanie has worked as a Pediatric Speech Pathologist for 20 years in the homecare, community, school, and clinic settings working with children from birth to high school.

Melanie's current specialty is Orofacial Myology Therapy (OMT). OMT is the study and treatment of oral and facial muscles as they relate to speech, dentition, chewing, swallowing and overall mental and physical health as described by Neo Health Services. Melanie came to specialize in OMT when children weren't making enough progress in speech therapy and she felt something was missing in her previous trainings. OMT has been life changing for her and her clients. She especially enjoys working with children and adults with tongue tie or tongue tie removal.

Melanie enjoys working with families holistically and is a strong advocate for children’s needs. As she is integrative, Melanie uses her foundation in herbalism, energy work, and health coaching interwoven within her speech therapy sessions. In her spare time, you may find her doing yoga, meditating, hiking, singing, traveling, gardening, making medicine, or cooking delicious healthy food!