Siskin Center for Developmental Pediatrics Speech – Language Pathologist Mary Hollowell has earned her LAMP Certification.
The LAMP (Language Acquisition through Motor Planning) Certification is awarded to individuals who have "demonstrated competency in their ability to skillfully utilize principles of language and motor learning in order to teach patients who use augmentative and alternative forms of communication (AAC)."
Officials said, "LAMP certified professionals offer invaluable assistance to help parents and children gain proficiency in their interactions."
Trained by The Center for AAC and Autism, Ms. Hollowell is now able to facilitate communication utilizing LAMP methodology.
"LAMP was originally developed to give nonverbal individuals with autism a means of communication, however, it can also be adapted to benefit individuals with a variety of other needs. Language Acquisition through Motor Planning emphasizes a therapeutic approach centered on neurological and motor learning principles," officials said. "Essentially, LAMP methodology looks to equip individuals who are nonverbal or who have limited verbal abilities with a method of expressing themselves in any setting. Ongoing research has shown improvements in spontaneous communication, mean length of utterance, and receptive vocabulary when LAMP strategies are implemented. In addition, patients have demonstrated signs of progress in natural vocalization, various communicative functions, and unique combinations of words."
Ms. Hollowell is the only speech – language pathologist in Tennessee to have earned the credential. In doing so, Ms. Hollowell has furthered Siskin’s mission of serving children with special needs and their families, officials said.
Siskin’s Center for Developmental Pediatrics is now taking new therapy patients. "Ask your pediatrician for a referral while there is still availability," officials said.