We recently connected with Latasha Bailey and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Latasha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.

The early days of establishing Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC were both exciting and challenging. It all began when I decided to pursue my passion for helping individuals with speech and language difficulties in a more personalized and impactful way. I gained valuable experience working in various clinical settings, but I wanted to create a space where I could implement my own vision for providing top-notch speech pathology services. The journey started with a clear vision of what I wanted my practice to be and the kind of services I wanted to offer. Finding the right location was a significant challenge. I needed a space accessible to clients, preferably in a convenient and safe neighborhood. I also had to consider the layout and design of the office to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for both children and adults.

Throughout the journey, time management was crucial, balancing administrative tasks, client sessions, and marketing efforts while setting up the practice. Looking back, I am grateful for the support I received from mentors and fellow professionals, as their guidance and encouragement were invaluable. If I were to give advice to a young professional considering starting their own practice, I would emphasize thorough planning. Creating a detailed business plan, including financial projections and marketing strategies, sets a solid foundation for the practice. It’s essential to invest in marketing and networking, building relationships with other healthcare professionals, educators, and community members to establish a strong referral network. Starting a private practice requires dedication and commitment, as success may not come overnight. Learning from mistakes and being open to adapt and improve based on feedback and experiences are key to long-term success. Overall, starting my own practice has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience, and I’m proud of the positive impact Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC has had on the lives of our clients.

Latasha, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Latasha R. Bailey, M.S., CCC-SLP, the proud owner of Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC, a private practice serving the Houston, Texas, metro area. I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in speech-language pathology from Southern University and A&M College. With thirteen years of professional experience as a medical Speech-Language Pathologist, I have worked in various settings, including acute hospitals, LTACH, skilled nursing facilities, and pediatric home health.

My journey into the field of speech pathology was driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals facing communication difficulties. After years of honing my skills and expertise, I realized that I wanted to create a space where I could deliver personalized care and tailored solutions to each client. This realization marked the birth of Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC.

At Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC, we offer a comprehensive range of speech pathology services that cater to both children and adults. Our practice is dedicated to helping clients improve their communication skills and enhance their overall quality of life. We provide individualized assessments, evidence-based therapy sessions, and consultations for various speech and language disorders, including articulation and phonological disorders, language delays, feeding disorders, and social communication difficulties.

One of the main things that set us apart is my extensive experience working in diverse settings. This background allows me to apply what I have learned about what works and what doesn’t work in the industry to meet the unique needs of my clients while maintaining clinical expertise and ethical standards.

I take great pride in our commitment to providing excellent, professional service to all our clients. Our goal is to empower individuals with communication difficulties to achieve their fullest potential, enhancing their overall quality of life. With a specialized focus on medical speech pathology, particularly in Dysphagia assessment and treatment, we are dedicated to delivering evidence-based care that produces meaningful and lasting results.

When you choose Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC, you can expect personalized and compassionate care, rooted in the latest research and best practices. We believe in the power of communication and its impact on overall well-being. Through our services, we aim to improve your loved one’s communication abilities and ensure safe swallowing to enhance their daily life experiences.
To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that at Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC, you will find compassionate, individualized, and evidence-based care. Our goal is to be a guiding force in your journey toward improved communication and a brighter future.

We welcome you to be a part of our community and experience the positive impact we can make together. At Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC, we believe in the power of communication, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Any advice for managing a team?

As a Clinical Director at the Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC, I prioritize maintaining high morale to foster a positive and productive work environment. Effective communication is at the heart of my team management approach. I keep open lines of communication with my team members, regularly sharing updates, providing constructive feedback, and actively listening to their concerns and ideas. By leading by example, I strive to set a positive tone for the team, demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and a positive attitude.

I believe in encouraging professional development within my team and supporting their growth by providing opportunities for learning and skill enhancement. Emphasizing teamwork and collaboration, I foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas, assisting one another, and working together to achieve common goals. Addressing challenges proactively is a priority, and we engage in open discussions to find effective solutions collaboratively.

Additionally, I understand the significance of work-life balance for my team members and encourage them to take breaks, utilize their vacation time, and maintain a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life. To recognize exceptional performance and dedication, I implement incentive programs and rewards, providing a sense of appreciation and recognition for their efforts.

Ultimately, high morale within my team contributes to the overall success of Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC and ensures the best possible care for our clients.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Certainly! One of the most significant moments that illustrates my resilience occurred during the early days of establishing Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC. Starting my own private practice was a dream I had nurtured for years, but the journey was far from easy.

As a new business owner and a dedicated Speech Pathologist, I encountered numerous challenges in setting up the practice. From securing the right location to obtaining licenses and permits, each step required careful planning and persistence. The financial investment needed for the practice was substantial, and there were moments when doubt crept in, questioning whether I could make my vision a reality.

At the same time, I faced professional and personal hurdles. As an African American Speech Pathologist, I was aware of the underrepresentation of individuals from diverse backgrounds in the field. This added a layer of complexity to my journey, as I sought to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of diverse Speech Pathologists.

Despite the obstacles, I refused to give up on my dream. My passion for helping others and my unwavering belief in the importance of quality communication drove me forward. I relied on the support of my network, including mentors, friends, and family, who encouraged me to persevere and reminded me of my strengths.

With determination and resilience, I tackled each challenge head-on. I utilized my previous experience working in various clinical settings and leveraged my expertise to ensure the highest quality of care for my future clients. I poured my heart and soul into building a practice that was not only professional but also compassionate and supportive.

Slowly but steadily, the pieces fell into place. With each triumph, my confidence grew, and the vision of Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC became clearer. I established strong partnerships with local healthcare professionals and educators, and our reputation began to spread within the community.

Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am immensely proud of the progress we have made. Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC has become a trusted resource for individuals seeking speech pathology services in our area. We have successfully made a positive impact on the lives of our clients, helping them improve their communication skills and fostering a sense of empowerment.

My journey has taught me that resilience is not just about overcoming challenges but also about embracing diversity and using our experiences to create positive change. I am committed to being a role model for aspiring Speech Pathologists from underrepresented backgrounds and advocating for greater diversity and inclusion within the field.

This journey has instilled in me a profound sense of purpose, and I am dedicated to continuing our mission of providing exceptional care and empowering individuals to communicate confidently and effectively. Through resilience, determination, and a passion for making a difference, I have turned my dream into a reality, and I am excited to see what the future holds for Speech and Language Launchpad PLLC.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://speechlaunchpad.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/speechlaunchpad
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/speechlaunchpad