43: Breaking Down Apraxia: The Power of Research, Treatment, and Voice with Nicole Kolenda

Nicole Kolenda (Lead SLP DTTC Treatment Research and Adjunct Professor) joins us for a powerful conversation exploring the world of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), from groundbreaking research and evidence-based treatment approaches to the deeper impact communication has on every aspect of our life.Throughout the episode, Nicole shares how her passion for apraxia evolved over more than 24 years in the field and offers an inside look at the innovative work happening at the NYU Motor Speech Lab. We discuss the importance of structured research protocols, motor-based assessment, and evidence-based intervention, including the Dynamic Tactile Temporal Cueing (DTTC) approach developed by Dr. Edith Strand.Nicole also breaks down how clinicians can differentiate apraxia from other speech disorders using tools like DEMS and ProCAD, while explaining the critical connection between speech motor planning and principles of motor learning.  The episode closes with an inspiring discussion about Nicole’s podcast, Voice for Possibilities, and the power of storytelling and advocacy, while empowering women through communication.To follow Nicole Kolenda and her work:Nicole Kolenda - Voice for Possibility | Nicole KolendaPeople | NYU Motor Speech LabFollow Unmasking Social at: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unmaskingsocial1YouTube: Unmasking Social: The Podcast - YouTube