HELLO, I'M
Suzanne Coomer.
Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Clinician
Suzanne Coomer
B.A. in International Relations.
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M.S. in Speech Language Pathology (expected 2022)
(708) 658-4253
About
MY BACKGROUND
I am a highly-motivated and dedicated Speech-Language Pathology student at Rush University with a background in theater. I have a wide range of clinical experience including voice, alternative and augmentative communication (AAC), and working with the LGBTQ+ community. In addition, I am currently running a qualitative research project into the attitudes of transmasculine people towards voice.
Education
2020–2022
Rush University – Chicago, IL; Class of 2022
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
(Expected graduation in April 2022)
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2013-2014
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland - Glasgow, Scotland
Introduction to Actor Training
Year-long short course
2008–2012
University of St. Andrews - St. Andrews, Scotland
M.A. (hons) in International Relations
Clinical Experience
Quantum LEEP Academy
Private therapeutic day school
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Supporting students aged 4-13 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) anda range of developmental delays to improve speech, communication, and feeding
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Using DIR/Floortime approach to increase regulation, engagement, and shared attention
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Using LAMP Words for Life on communication boards and devices to increase total communication for children with ASD and apraxia of speech
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Evaluating speech and language using a variety of standardized assessments including CELF-5 and GFTA-3
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RushPT
Adult outpatient voice, language and swallowing
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Performing voice evaluations using CSL software, including ADSV and MDVP
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Assessing dysphagia via clinical swallow evals and VFSS
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AAC training in patients with aphasia and apraxia of speech
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Conducting voice and swallowing therapy
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Techniques including resonant voice therapy, vocal hygiene counselling, semi-occluded vocal tract exercises, C-STAR, IOPI​
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Participating in high-volume monthly interprofessional Muscular Dystrophy clinic
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Rush University Medical Center
Adult neurological acute care
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Conducting bedside cognition assessments using tools such as SLUMs and CLQT+
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Conducting bedside clinical swallow evaluations
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Assisting with VFSS
Research Experience
Master's thesis
Topic: Attitudes towards voice in transmasculine people
Ongoing
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Qualitative research study into the attitudes and experiences of transmasculine people with regards to voice and voice therapy
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Recruiting 6-8 participants in Fall 2021
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Conducting semi-structured interviews
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Performing content analysis on interviews to synthesize common themes
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Thesis defence expected in spring 2022
Awards & Other Qualifications
ASHFoundation International Student Scholarship 2021
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November 2021
MBSImP Student Training
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In progress; estimated completion January 2022
Lingraphica Student Certification in AAC
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June 2021
British Sign Language (BSL) Level One
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August 2014
Scottish Vocational Qualification in Youth Work
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September 2004
Service
RUSHPride (LGBTQ+ Affinity Group)
Vice President 2021-2022
Rush University NSSHLA Chapter
ISHA Chair 2021-2022