Our Staff

Dawn DiStefano is an accomplished speech-language pathologist with over 25 years of experience helping children build stronger communication and learning skills. In 2008, she founded Ocean Speech and Learning Center with a mission to provide individualized, high-quality care in a family-centered environment while removing the barriers of corporate systems to focus on what matters most: the child’s success.

As the Executive Director of Clinical Services, Dawn oversees all aspects of therapy delivery across Ocean Speech and Learning Center. She personally conducts comprehensive evaluations to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, and supervises clinical services to uphold the high standards of care that define the practice. Dawn is deeply committed to ensuring each family receives the attention, guidance, and support they need at every stage of their child’s development.

Throughout her career, Dawn has collaborated closely with doctors, physical and occupational therapists, audiologists, educators, and early intervention specialists in hospitals, outpatient clinics, school systems, and private practice settings. Her expertise includes speech and language disorders, oral motor challenges, apraxia, dyslexia, neurodevelopmental therapy, and early intervention, among many others. She is a certified dyslexia consultant and has extensive training in a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques.

In addition to her clinical work, Dawn leads parent counseling services, community outreach programs, and professional development for her team. She is a lifelong learner who frequently attends advanced conferences and workshops to remain at the forefront of speech-language pathology research and treatment.

Dawn believes that therapy is most effective when it is personal, evidence-based, and rooted in collaboration. Her passion for supporting families and developing compassionate, skilled therapists is at the heart of Ocean Speech’s success.

Outside of the office, Dawn enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, relaxing at the beach, and traveling around the world to explore new places and cultures.

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology – Seton Hall University
• B.S. in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology – Stockton University
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) – American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist – State of New Jersey
• Certified Speech-Language Specialist – NJ Department of Education
• Member – ASHA and NJ Speech-Language-Hearing Association, International Dyslexia Association
• Certified Dyslexia Consultant
• Hanen It Takes Two to Talk® Certified
• Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol (K-SLP®)
• Beckman Oral Motor Method
• TalkTools® –  Oral Placement Therapy
• Picture Exchange Communication System® (PECS®)  Level I & II
• DIR Floortime® trained
• PROMPT® Trained
• Myofunctional Therapy Trained
• Lindamood-Bell LiPS® Trained
• PLAY Project™ Trained
• IMSE® – Orton Gillingham Approach Methods
• NLA – Natural Language Acquisition and Gestalt Learning Processes
• Dawn has also completed advanced coursework and seminar trainings in Oro-Facial Myofunctional Speech & Swallow Disorders, Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs), oral-motor therapeutic techniques, childhood feeding challenges, Apraxia, phonological and articulation disorders, Autism, gestalt language learning functions, language-learning processing and disabilities, Central Auditory Processing Disorders, neurodevelopmental and primitive reflex evidence-based practices, and dyslexia evaluations and treatment methodologies.

Nicole is a highly experienced speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience helping children become confident and effective communicators here in Ocean County. She has been an integral part of Ocean Speech and Learning Center since 2011 and currently serves as our Director of Clinical Services. In this role, Nicole oversees staff training and professional development, supports office operations, and helps families navigate scheduling and insurance in order to ensure a seamless experience from the first phone call to each therapy session.

Nicole provides pediatric speech and language therapy working with toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. Her areas of clinical expertise include apraxia of speech, motor speech disorders, expressive and receptive language delays, auditory processing challenges, autism spectrum disorder, oral motor deficits, and aural rehabilitation. She is also trained in the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and has extensive experience implementing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies.

Nicole’s background includes work across a variety of settings.  This includes public schools, private clinics, and outpatient hospital programs which has provided her a deep understanding of childhood development in diverse contexts. She is committed to evidence-based practices and continues to attend multiple speech and language conferences each year to stay current with advances in treatment approaches.

She is known for her compassionate, goal-oriented approach and loves partnering with families to help children meet developmental milestones, improve academic success, and find their voice.

Outside of the office, Nicole enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, embracing family life with the same warmth and dedication she brings to her work.

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) – American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist – State of New Jersey
• Certified Speech-Language Specialist – NJ Department of Education
• M.A. in Speech Pathology – The College of New Jersey
• B.S. in Speech Pathology and Audiology – Stockton University
• Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol (K-SLP)
• Beckman Oral Motor Method
• PROMPT® Trained
• TalkTools Oral Placement Therapy
• PECS Level I & II (Picture Exchange Communication System)
• PLAY Project™ Trained
• NLA – Natural Language Acquisition and Gestalt Learning Processes
• Nicole has completed advanced coursework in Oro-Facial Myofunctional Speech & Swallow Disorders, Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs), oral-musculature therapeutic techniques, childhood feeding challenges, Apraxia, Autism, gestalt language processing (GLP), language-learning processing, Central Auditory Processing Disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies, and phonological and articulation treatment methods.

Justine is an established speech-language pathologist who has been helping children strengthen their communication skills for over a decade. She joined Ocean Speech and Learning Center in 2013 and currently serves as our Clinical Supervisor.  In this role she assists in staff training and mentoring along with overseeing off-site speech therapy services and evaluations at local preschools throughout Ocean County, NJ.

At our clinic, Justine also leads our comprehensive patient evaluations. She is dedicated to ensuring each child receives an accurate diagnosis and a thoughtfully developed treatment plan that reflects the high standards of care upheld at Ocean Speech. Her evaluations are thorough and collaborative, laying the foundation for effective, individualized therapy.

Justine specializes in treating apraxia of speech, motor speech disorders, oral and written language delays, and is well-versed in implementing the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) to support children with complex communication needs, including those on the autism spectrum. Her background spans work with patients of all ages, and she brings a wide lens to her therapeutic approach while balancing clinical expertise with compassion and creativity.

She believes in collaborative, family-centered care and works closely with parents and caregivers to ensure each child’s therapy plan is functional, motivating, and tailored to their unique strengths and needs.

When she’s not supporting families at Ocean Speech, Justine enjoys being outdoors with her husband and two sons while making the most of family time in nature.

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) – American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist – State of New Jersey
• Certified Speech-Language Specialist – NJ Department of Education
• M.A. in Communicative Disorders – West Chester University of Pennsylvania
• B.S. in Speech Pathology and Audiology – Stockton University
• Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol (K-SLP)
• PROMPT® Trained
• Beckman Oral Motor Method
• TalkTools Oral Placement Therapy
• PECS Level I & II (Picture Exchange Communication System)
• NLA – Natural Language Acquisition and Gestalt Learning Processes
• Justine has also completed advanced coursework and seminar trainings in Oro-Facial Myofunctional Speech & Swallow Disorders, Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs), childhood feeding challenges, Apraxia, phonological and articulation disorders,  Autism, gestalt language processing (GLP), language-learning processing and disabilities, Central Auditory Processing Disorders, neurodevelopmental and primitive reflex evidence-based practices, and dyslexia.

Nikki is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist who joined Ocean Speech in 2024.  She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Science with Minors in Disability Studies, and Human Development from the University of Delaware and completed her Master’s degree in Communication Disorders at Stockton University.

Nikki specializes in providing play-based speech therapy for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. Her clinical expertise includes treating articulation disorders, language delays, childhood apraxia of speech, autism spectrum disorder, and language-based learning disabilities. She is passionate about helping children build strong communication skills that support success at home, in school, and in social environments.

Known for her warm and engaging approach, Nikki focuses on child-led, functional therapy that is rooted in connection and trust. She works closely with families to ensure that every session supports the child’s individual needs and empowers parents with practical strategies to continue progress outside the therapy room.

Nikki is committed to making therapy a positive and meaningful experience. She believes in the power of early intervention and is dedicated to guiding each child toward confident, effective communication.

When she’s not in the clinic, Nikki enjoys spending time with family and friends. She’s also an avid artist and loves using her creativity to bring beauty into her home.

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology – Stockton University
• B.S. in Cognitive Science, Disability Studies, and Human Development – University of Delaware 
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) – American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist – State of New Jersey
• Certified Speech-Language Specialist – NJ Department of Education
• PROMPT® Trained
• Bilinguistic Certificate in Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
• SPEAKOUT! And LOUD Crowd Training
• Passy-Muir Valve Training
• MBSImP
• CITI Health Information Privacy and Security & Student Research Training
• Protection of Minors Training
• Nikki has completed advanced trainings in Apraxia, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies, Oro-Facial Myofunctional Speech & Swallow Disorders, and Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs).

Samantha joined Ocean Speech and Learning Center in 2025 and brings with her a well-rounded background in pediatric speech therapy. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education and Environmental Sciences and a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Seton Hall University.

Sam began her career working with children in both school settings and outpatient clinics, supporting a wide range of ages and developmental needs. She has experience treating speech and language delays, supporting children with daily living skills, and implementing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for children with complex communication challenges. Her diverse experience makes her a valued asset to the Ocean Speech team.

At our clinic, Samantha provides speech therapy to toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children across Ocean County, helping each child build foundational communication skills that support both academic success and confident self-expression. Her therapy sessions are known for being fun, flexible, and meaningful, as well as, tailored to the unique strengths and goals of each child.

Samantha is passionate about staying current with the latest research and innovations in speech-language pathology. She is committed to continually learning so she can bring fresh strategies and best practices to the children and families she serves.

When she’s not at Ocean Speech, you can find Sam surrounded by her large family and friends, traveling the world with her husband, or relaxing at home while crocheting her next creation.

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology – Seton Hall University
• B.S. in Education and Environmental Sciences – Seton Hall University 
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) – American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist – State of New Jersey
• Certified Speech-Language Specialist – NJ Department of Education
• Samantha has completed advanced trainings in Apraxia, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies, Oro-Facial Myofunctional Speech & Swallow Disorders, and Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs).

Gina is a trusted expert in the field of speech-language pathology with over 35 years of experience supporting children across a wide range of ages and developmental needs. She has served in local school districts throughout Ocean County, bringing decades of practical insight to her work with students and families.

Gina earned her Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from East Stroudsburg University and her Master’s degree from Kean University. Throughout her career, she has been deeply committed to pediatric speech therapy, with expertise spanning early language development, articulation disorders, AAC (augmentative and alternative communication), and the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS).

At Ocean Speech and Learning Center, Gina creates therapy sessions that are welcoming, interactive, and most importantly fun. She is passionate about building a connection with each child to create a supportive space where progress can truly thrive. Gina values collaboration with families, knowing that shared insight and teamwork are essential to helping children reach their highest potential.

Always inspired to keep learning, Gina actively pursues opportunities to deepen her knowledge and advance her clinical skills. She believes that every child deserves a voice and works hard to ensure that each one is heard.

When Gina is not at Ocean Speech, you can find her enjoying the beach with her family and friends or spending time with her energetic black lab, who keeps her on her toes!

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology – Kean University
• B.S. in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology – East Stroudsburg University
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) – American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist – State of New Jersey
• Certified Speech-Language Specialist – NJ Department of Education
• Member – ASHA and NJ Speech-Language-Hearing Association 
• Gina has completed advanced coursework in Oro-Facial Myofunctional Speech & Swallow Disorders, Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs), oral-musculature therapeutic techniques, childhood feeding challenges, Apraxia, Autism, gestalt language learning functions, language-learning processing, Central Auditory Processing Disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies, and phonological and articulation treatment methods.

Emily is a speech-language pathologist who joined Ocean Speech and Learning Center as a clinical fellow in 2025. She earned both her bachelor’s degree in Health Science, with a minor in Disability Studies, and her Master’s degree in Communication Disorders from Stockton University.

Emily brings a versatile clinical background to the team, having gained valuable experience in evaluating and treating a wide range of communication and swallowing disorders. She is particularly enthusiastic about expanding her clinical skills in the areas of apraxia of speech, articulation disorders, language-learning disabilities, and pediatric feeding challenges.

She is committed to providing evidence-based, family-centered care and takes a collaborative approach while working closely with both families and the interdisciplinary team at Ocean Speech to support meaningful progress and functional outcomes. Emily is known for creating engaging, play-based activities that encourage real-world communication success and for building strong, trusting relationships with her clients.

Emily believes that every session should be joyful, motivating, individualized, and that “a day without laughter is a day wasted!”

When she’s not in the clinic, you can find Emily traveling the world (21 countries and counting!), staying active at the gym, or baking up her next delicious creation.

Kim is a nationally certified occupational therapist with over 36 years of experience supporting both children and adults across clinical, educational, and rehabilitation settings. She joined Ocean Speech and Learning Center with a passion for helping children gain the foundational motor, visual, and sensory skills they need to thrive in everyday life.

Throughout her career, Kim has served in a variety of roles, including working in school-based programs and serving as the Educational Coordinator at an adult neuro-rehabilitation hospital. Her advanced training includes neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) techniques, visual motor and perceptual therapy, and certification as a Handwriting Without Tears™ Level 1 Specialist. She is also trained in the See It Right™ program to support visual processing, as well as the Zones of Regulation™ and 1-2-3 Magic™ behavioral strategies, providing a holistic approach that integrates emotional regulation, motor coordination, and executive functioning.

Kim works with children across a wide age range and skill level, focusing on building independence in handwriting, attention, self-regulation, sensory processing, and executive function. She takes a personalized, goal-driven approach to occupational therapy that supports both the child and the family.

In addition to her clinical work, Kim has presented at national conferences and served as an adjunct professor at Union County College. Most recently, she completed training in an integrated therapeutic approach to dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia.

When Kim is not at our office, you can find her enjoying time with her family and friends, traveling to new places to explore with her husband, or relaxing with a great book on Audible while tending to her garden with care and creativity.

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• Registered Occupational Therapist – State of New Jersey
• National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy
• B.S. in Occupational Therapy – Medical College of Virginia
• Handwriting Without Tears™ Level 1 Specialist
• See It Right™ Visual Processing Program
• 1-2-3 Magic™ Behavioral Strategy Training
• Zones of Regulation™ Program
• Advanced coursework in dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia
• Featured Presenter – National Stroke Conference
• Member – American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)

Brandi Heasty is a licensed and certified occupational therapist who joined Ocean Speech and Learning Center in 2025. With a career dedicated to pediatrics, Brandi brings both clinical expertise and genuine enthusiasm to every therapy session she leads.

She began her journey at Rutgers University, where she completed her studies in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program and discovered her passion for working with children. Eager to expand her knowledge and scope of practice, she went on to earn her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from the New England Institute of Technology.

Brandi’s clinical background includes working in pediatric hospital settings with medically fragile children, as well as providing early intervention services throughout Ocean and Monmouth County. Her areas of focus include autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing challenges, ADHD, primitive reflex integration, and fine motor skill development. She believes in creating engaging, motivating, and child-centered sessions that encourage participation and joy in every step of therapy.

Brandi is passionate about building strong relationships with both children and their families. She knows that meaningful progress comes from celebrating even the smallest milestones and she’s always ready to cheer her clients on. Her sessions are rooted in compassion, play-based strategies, and evidence-informed practices that support a child’s independence and success.

When Brandi is not at the clinic, you can find her spending time with her husband, squeezing in a Pilates workout, or planning her next magical trip to Disney.

Credentials & Specialized Training:

• B.S. in Health Studies – Monmouth University
• A.A. in Occupational Therapy Assistant – Rutgers University
• M.S. in Occupational Therapy – New England Institute of Technology
• Member – American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
• Registered Occupational Therapist – State of New Jersey
• National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy