Past Student Opportunities
HeartWood Speech Therapy, LLC believes in the importance of Student Education and Professional Mentorship. In the past, HWST regularly has had undergraduate and graduate students participate in “Ride-Alongs” for observations of dynamic natural environment based ST sessions.  During these sessions, participants observed a functional and FUN approach to language acquisition, (through a multimodal approach of parallel talk, sign language, AAC devices), as well as the joys of first foods, first sips, and messy food play.  HWST is not able to provide student opportunities at this time.
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​Students Testimonials 

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“Ms. Michelle was gracious enough to let me come observer with her, and the knowledge I received from being with her has really helped improve my therapy skills.  She made sure I felt comfortable and understood her caseload while maintaining her client’s confidentiality.  My experience with her was amazing, I’ve learned so much!”

Sarah W., Columbia College

Undergraduate Dec ’17
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BA Speech Language Pathology

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“When I was shadowing Mrs. Dawson I learned that therapy can be given to children using regular household items which gives therapy a more natural feel for the child.  I also found that it takes a great deal of kindness and patience in order to make the children comfortable and willing to work with you, but once they relaxed they would flourish.  With the right care and compassion I could see an improvement in a child’s demeanor and ability improve throughout each session I watched”

Chandler R., Clemson University

Undergraduate ’18
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BS Health Sciences Major

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"The way that you care for you clients and their families is so commendable. You spread so much light and positivity to every family you work with and that does not go unnoticed. You go beyond therapy to advocate and fight for your clients in such a large variety of ways.”

Chelsea V. , Columbia College

Undergraduate Student ‘18
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BA Speech Language Pathology

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"I’ve had the opportunity to observe Michelle numerous times and it has been an awesome experience! Her caseload is diverse so I was able to see a variety of therapy techniques.  Michelle is so enthusiastic about her work and truly advocates for her patients.  She also ensures that their caregivers are included as well.  Michelle is a wonderful mentor and a true asset to the field of speech-language pathology!”

Marian E., Columbia College

April ’17
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BA Speech Language Pathology

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“Michelle allowed me to observe her during therapy on short notice.  I was amazed at the diversity of the population on her caseload.  Observing Michelle offered in depth education into therapy for populations that are not frequently observable.  By allowing observations to be conducted in the patient’s home, she does not just provide a wealth of education on therapy, but gives valuable insight into the patients natural setting and familial perspective; which, is a quality of therapy not easily observed.”

Sean L., SC State University

Graduate Student ’18
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Speech Language Pathology Major

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"I feel like Michelle laid down a great foundation for future learning. Great Speaker!”

Grace A., Chico State

Undergraduate ’19
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BA Communication Sciences and Disorders

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“Michelle is a wonderful SLP! She's committed to her patients and provides phenomenal therapy. She is a leader in the field of speech-language pathology by not only modeling best practice, but by traveling the US lecturing about treatment for pediatric dysphagia and medically fragile populations. As a future SLP, I strive to be as passionate and well-rounded as she is. Michelle has taught me so much about how I will conduct my future practice. I can't say enough wonderful things about her! Seeing her make wonderful impacts in the lives of others is truly amazing!”

Leslie W., University of South Carolina

Graduate Student ‘17
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MS Speech Pathology

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“By following in your footsteps I will have a career that far surpasses average, because I will put love and compassion for my patients above all else."

Nicole C., University of Rhode Island

Graduate Student ‘19
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MS Speech Language Pathology

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“I am a current graduate student and I had the privilege to shadow Michelle. Michelle explained every situation in detail and made sure that I understood why she was doing specific techniques in therapy and how they benefitted the patient. She is very thorough during her therapy sessions! Needless to say, she’s awesome and she taught me so much!”

Mattie B., SC State University

Graduate Student ‘18
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Speech Language Pathology Major

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“Observing Michelle last semester solidified my want to pursue speech-language pathology. When Michelle enters a patient’s home, she brings an energy of hope and joy along with her abundance of knowledge. Michelle directly showed me the impact that a speech-language pathologist can have in others’ lives as a therapist and an advocate.”

AnneElise N., University of South Carolina

Undergraduate ‘19
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BS Experimental Psychology

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“My graduate practicum placement at HeartWood Speech Therapy was nothing short of incredible. Michelle is such a knowledgeable clinician. She thoroughly explains everything she does with her patients and backs it up with evidence from the literature. I learned more in my eight weeks riding shotgun with Michelle than I ever imagined possible. The way Michelle interacts with her patients, families, and colleagues is something every aspiring SLP should witness. Any student who gets to learn from Michelle will be set up for success in the future. I’m so thankful for my time with HeartWood Speech and getting to work with Michelle and the awesome kiddos she sees!”

Maggie S., University of South Carolina

Graduate Student ‘19
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MS Speech Language Pathology

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“I recently had the opportunity to shadow Michelle for several days and for someone aspiring to enter the field of speech-language pathology, it was an amazing experience. She is incredibly experienced, knowledgeable and passionate about SLP and is an inspiration to watch in action. She did an excellent job of explaining the therapy she provides and the reasoning behind it. I learned so much from her in the few days I was able to shadow and observe how she interacts with patients and families.”

Sara C. CRT, University of Minnesota

Leveling SLP Program
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 2020

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“Michelle, quite simply, is Superwoman. From providing skilled therapy to advocating for policy changes to lecturing on best practices across the country, she does it all, and she does it with more skill and passion than anyone I have ever met. Michelle uses the latest research, her clinical expertise, and each family's values to guide her practice, so rest assured that your child is receiving individualized, high-quality treatment. Watching her interact with families and their children is inspiring, and I have become a better clinician (and person) because of my time spent at HeartWood Speech Therapy. Thank you for everything that you do, Michelle. You are the Eighth Wonder of the World.”

Erin V, University of South Carolina

Graduate Student ’20
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MS Speech Pathology

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