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Jessie always knew she wanted to work with children. For as long as she can remember, she has been drawn to their curiosity, honesty, and humor. But it wasn’t until she traveled abroad and worked with non-speaking and minimally speaking young adults that she discovered her true calling—helping children communicate in ways that honor their individuality.
Now a speech therapist with TheraFriends, Jessie specializes in neurodiversity-affirming care—an approach that celebrates each child’s strengths and focuses on empathy-driven therapy rather than compliance.
“I’ve always known I wanted to work with kids. I decided that when I was a kid myself! I’ve always thought kids are the coolest people and wanted to work with them in some capacity.”
From compliance to connection
Jessie's early career exposed her to compliance-based therapy, but it didn’t sit right with her.
“My first exposure was compliance-based therapy, and I quickly realized I didn’t like that approach. It didn’t feel good for me or the child—it didn’t feel joyful at all.”
Determined to create a different kind of experience, Jessie focused on building trust and helping children feel safe and seen. She found her stride in child-led approaches that prioritize connection over correction.
Shifting the field toward inclusivity
Jessie has worked closely with families navigating systems that weren’t designed with neurodivergent kids in mind.
“It can be so hard [within current educational and health systems] to surround your child with neurodiversity-affirming providers who truly see them for who they are—for all of their strengths and challenges and the beautiful things that make them up.”
Her passion for inclusivity drives her efforts to help families access the care and tools they need—whether through group programs or one-on-one therapy.
Expanding access for more kids in our community
Jessie sees the need for making therapy more accessible and expanding TheraFriends’ offerings, including sensory tools and group programs that build social connections.
“I’d love to have more sensory tools, like a sensory swing in our backyard, and host more social connection groups. Insurance and Medicaid don’t cover group services, so families have to pay out of pocket, which isn’t accessible to everyone.”
Shortly after being interviewed for this blog post, Jessie shared this update: "I now have a sensory swing in the backyard at my office space! The swing was fully funded through clients & community through a Gofundme."
Join Jessie Sue and TheraFriends in building a future where every child is celebrated. Your donation can fund scholarships, therapy tools, and group programs that make a difference.
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