Meet Our Team

We are a dedicated team of speech-language pathologists, communication disorder assistants, and literacy instructors providing evidence-based, person-centered care to help children and adults build confident communication across every stage of life.

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Melissa Mascio, M.H.Sc., S-LP(C), Reg. CASLPO

Clinical Director & Founder, Mountain Speech Language Services

Melissa Mascio, M.H.Sc., S-LP(C), Reg. CASLPO

Clinical Director & Founder, Mountain Speech Language Services

Melissa Mascio is a registered Speech-Language Pathologist with over 22 years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults with communication and swallowing challenges. She is the founder and Clinical Director of Mountain Speech Language Services, a growing private practice serving Hamilton, Niagara, and surrounding communities.

Throughout her career, Melissa has worked across a wide range of sectors, including public healthcare, private practice, community rehabilitation, and motor vehicle accident (MVA) services. This diverse experience allows her to bring a well-rounded, functional, and real-world perspective to her clinical work.

Melissa has extensive training and continuing education in neurodiversity-affirming practices, autism, sensory integration, cognitive-communication, aphasia, and swallowing. Her approach is grounded in a care philosophy she developed called Christopher’s Way—a compassionate, individualized model of care inspired by her personal connection to disability through her younger brother. This philosophy is the foundation of Mountain Speech Language Services and is reflected in every aspect of care, including the creation of dedicated sensory spaces in each clinic location to support regulation, comfort, and engagement.

She is deeply committed to building strong, supportive teams and has cultivated a group of skilled Speech-Language Pathologists, Communication Disorders Assistants, and Literacy Instructors who share her values of collaboration, empathy, and clinical excellence. Melissa is passionate about mentoring new graduates and supporting students and volunteers entering the field, helping to shape the next generation of clinicians.

Melissa also believes strongly in giving back to the community. Alongside her husband, Paul (OCT), she co-created the “Let’s Read!” Summer Literacy Camp, which has supported over 100 children in developing literacy and communication skills in a fun, inclusive environment. She is incredibly proud of this collaboration and its impact on local families.

Driven by a vision to increase accessibility and inclusion, Melissa continues to expand Mountain Speech Language Services, including growing into the Niagara region and developing innovative programs to better serve diverse communities.

In Melissa’s spare time, she can be found cheering her boys on the soccer and baseball fields, cooking, traveling, and spending time with family.

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Amanda Longo

Virtual Admin Assistant

Amanda Longo

Virtual Administrative Assistant

Amanda is a graduate of Mohawk College’s Medical Office Administration program and brings over 10 years of experience in healthcare administration. She has worked in oncology and family medicine settings, supporting multidisciplinary teams and managing complex scheduling and front desk coordination.

At Mountain Speech, Amanda serves as a primary point of contact for families, ensuring smooth communication, appointment coordination, and administrative organization. Her experience in high-volume medical environments supports efficient, professional client care from the first interaction.

She is dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive experience for families navigating speech and language services.

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Paul Mascio, B.Ed, OCT

Structured Literacy Instructor & Education Consultant

Paul Mascio, B.Ed, OCT

Structured Literacy Instructor & Education Consultant

Paul Mascio is a certified Ontario teacher (OCT) with over 26 years of experience teaching junior and intermediate grades. He specializes in literacy development and brings extensive classroom expertise to his role supporting school-aged children.

At Mountain Speech Language Services, Paul plays an integral role in supporting students through both one-to-one and small group instruction. He provides structured literacy intervention grounded in the Science of Reading, with a focus on supporting students with ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities. His approach incorporates multiple learning modalities to ensure instruction is accessible, engaging, and tailored to each learner’s strengths.

Paul has contributed to the development of Mountain Speech’s “Let’s Read!” Summer Literacy Camp curriculum and continues to support its delivery within the community. His work focuses on strengthening foundational literacy skills, reading comprehension, and building academic confidence in a supportive and motivating environment.

Known for his ability to connect with students, Paul combines evidence-based instructional strategies with creative, engaging approaches to help children achieve meaningful, measurable progress in their reading and overall learning.

In Paul’s spare time, you can find him tinkering in the garage, reading up on engineering feats, traveling, and coaching his boys in soccer, baseball, and football.

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Brittannie Jespersen

Clinical Leader - Pediatrics, Education Coordinator, Speech-Language Pathologist

Brittannie Jespersen

Clinical Leader – Pediatrics, Education Coordinator, Speech-Language Pathologist

Brittannie holds a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from McMaster University. She provides assessment and treatment for children and adults with articulation, language, literacy, social communication, AAC, voice, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders.

As Clinical Leader – Pediatrics and Education Coordinator, she supports evidence-based, functional, and client-centered service delivery across the pediatric team. Brittannie integrates her background in singing and professional vocals into therapy when appropriate, particularly in voice and speech work.

She is committed to delivering individualized care grounded in research and best practices.

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Maneet Badesha

Speech-Language Pathologist

Maneetpal (Maneet) Badesha

Speech-Language Pathologist

Maneet holds a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from McMaster University. She provides evidence-based assessment and treatment for children and adults with speech, language, literacy, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders.

In addition to her clinical work, she serves as a clinical research assistant at the Aging Swallow Research Lab at McMaster University, contributing to research focused on swallowing and aging. Maneet is dedicated to delivering compassionate, person-centered care that is functional and meaningful across the lifespan.

She is fluent in English and Punjabi and is able to provide services in both languages.

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Sanjas Regi

Communication Disorders Assistant

Sanjas Regi

Communication Disorders Assistant

Sanjas holds a Bachelor’s degree in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology from Mangalore University and has professional experience working as both an audiologist and speech therapist. After relocating to Canada, she completed further studies in Autism, Behavioural Sciences, and Concurrent Disorders.

She supports intervention and education for individuals with autism, expressive and receptive language disorders, hearing impairments, mental health challenges, and developmental differences. Sanjas brings strong clinical knowledge and cross-cultural experience to her work with children and adults.

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Allison Fox, B.A, CDA

Communication Disorders Assistant

Allison Fox, B.A, CDA

Communication Disorders Assistant

Allison holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics (Communication Disorders stream) from Brock University and a postgraduate certificate as a Communication Disorders Assistant. She has nearly 17 years of experience supporting individuals with neurological injuries and communication differences.

Her professional focus includes language intervention and the development of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems for non-speaking clients. Allison collaborates closely with Speech-Language Pathologists to implement individualized therapy programs grounded in clinical best practice.

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Annu Merin Jacob

M.Sc., Speech Language Pathologist, Reg. CASLPO

Annu Merin Jacob

M.Sc., Speech Language Pathologist, Reg. CASLPO

Annu is a registered Speech-Language Pathologist with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO). She holds both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from universities in India and has been registered in Ontario since 2018.

She has extensive experience supporting preschool and school-aged children with autism spectrum disorder, receptive and expressive language delays, speech sound disorders, social communication challenges, and AAC needs. Annu is certified in the Hanen “More Than Words” program and trained in PROMPT and Fluency Plus. She continues professional development in Gestalt Language Processing.

Annu collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based, and neurodiversity-affirming care.

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Ava Sarkis

Speech-Language Pathologist, Clinical Leader - Adults

Ava Sarkis

Speech-Language Pathologist, Clinical Leader - Adults

Born and raised in Niagara, Ava completed her Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics (minor in Psychology) at Brock University (2017) and her Master of Health Science in Speech-Language Pathology (minor in Audiology) at the University of Toronto (2019). She has extensive experience working with adults with speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders across hospital, rehabilitation, and home care settings, including individuals with complex medical and neurogenic conditions, tracheostomies, ventilator dependence, and acquired brain injuries (concussions, traumatic brain injuries, stroke). In addition, she has provided assessment and intervention services for children, including those with autism, supporting both urgent response needs and developmental goals for speech, language, fluency, and literacy.

With experience across the continuum of care, Ava integrates her expertise in communication and swallowing disorders into individualized, client-centered management plans. She collaborates closely with clients, families, and their healthcare teams to promote safe swallowing, functional communication, and overall well-being, fostering a warm, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to express their goals and actively participate in decision-making. Her emphasis on open, compassionate communication, combined with her education and counseling skills, ensures clients and families feel guided, informed, and supported throughout the therapeutic process.

Ava also regularly guest lectures for Brock University’s Introduction to Communication Disorders course, sharing her clinical expertise and guiding students in understanding neurogenic communication disorders and dysphagia. Her combined clinical and teaching experience allows her to integrate evidence-based strategies into individualized care.

When not working, you can find Ava on the volleyball court, or more likely curled up with her cats taking a nap or reading a good book.

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Domina Dalu

Communication Disorders Assistant

Donima Dalu

Communication Disorders Assistant

Donima holds a Bachelor’s degree in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Kerala and previously worked as both an Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathologist prior to moving to Canada.

She furthered her education in Canada with studies in Autism and Behavioural Science at Niagara College and Concurrent Disorders at Mohawk College. Donima supports intervention, education, and counseling for individuals with speech and language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and hearing impairments.

Her combined international clinical experience and additional Canadian training allow her to provide knowledgeable, supportive assistance within individualized therapy programs.

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Rachel Keizerwaard

Speech-Language Pathologist

Rachel Keizerwaard

Speech-Language Pathologist

Rachel holds a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science of Language from McMaster University. She developed her passion for adult communication disorders while working in long-term care settings.

She has extensive experience in acute care and rehabilitation hospitals, supporting adults with complex medical conditions, dysphagia, language impairments, and cognitive-communication disorders. Rachel is particularly passionate about rehabilitative therapy, helping individuals regain communication and swallowing function following illness or injury.

Her approach emphasizes personalized treatment planning, rapport-building, and innovative, goal-oriented care tailored to each client’s unique needs.

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Breanne Ingrassia

Speech-Language Pathologist

Breanne Ingrassia

Speech-Language Pathologist

Breanne is a pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist with over 13 years of experience supporting preschool and school-aged children. She holds a Master of Clinical Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Western University.

Her clinical expertise includes articulation, motor speech disorders, expressive and receptive language delays, and social communication differences. Breanne is trained in Hanen programs and PROMPT and practices from a neurodiversity-affirming, child-led framework. She integrates parent coaching into sessions and has experience supervising Communication Disorders Assistants.

Breanne is committed to evidence-based practice and empowering families through collaborative, supportive care.

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Chantel McAlonan

Speech-Language Pathologist

Chantel McAlonan

Speech-Language Pathologist

Chantel earned her Honours Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences and Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from McMaster University. She provides neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based, and client-centered care to children and adults with speech, language, fluency, literacy, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders.

She is trained in Supported Conversation for Adults with Aphasia and has clinical interests in fluency, voice, dysphagia, aphasia, and articulation. As a Person Who Stutters, Chantel brings personal insight and advocacy to her work, emphasizing confidence, connection, and self-advocacy in communication.

Her therapy focuses on meaningful, functional outcomes tailored to each client’s goals.

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Cristina Seixeiro

Speech-Language Pathologist

Cristina Seixeiro

Speech-Language Pathologist

Cristina holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Behaviour with specialization in Autism and Behavioural Sciences and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from McMaster University.

She provides assessment and treatment for pediatric and adult clients with articulation, language, fluency, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders. Cristina is dedicated to delivering neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based, and client-centered care that prioritizes functional communication.

Her background in behavioural sciences informs her individualized and supportive approach to therapy across diverse clinical presentations.

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Eknoor Mangat

Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant

Eknoor Mangat

Speech Language Pathology Assistant

Noor is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with several years of experience who brings kindness, patience, and genuine care into every session. She has completed her Honors BA in Psychology at Brock University and was recently accepted into a Communication Disorders Assistant program starting Fall 2026. Her experience has shaped her deep appreciation for child development, emotional connection, and the many ways children communicate beyond words.

Working under the supervision of Speech-Language Pathologists, Noor supports children with a range of speech and language needs, including receptive and expressive language delays, speech sound disorders, social communication differences, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). She is especially passionate about building trust, following the child’s lead, and creating warm, safe spaces where communication can grow naturally.

Noor values neurodiversity-affirming, relationship-based care and believes therapy is most meaningful when children feel understood and supported. She works closely with families to ensure each child’s strengths are celebrated and carried beyond the therapy room.

Outside of work, Noor enjoys caring for her dog, spending time with friends, and embracing creativity and softness in everyday life, values that gently guide the care she provides to the children and families she supports.

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Emma Sandziuk

Communication Disorders Assistant

Emma Sandziuk

Communication Disorders Assistant

Emma is a Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) with a B.A. in Linguistics from Brock University and an M.A. in Communicative Disorders and Sciences from SUNY at Buffalo. She has worked as a CDA for two years and has a strong interest in pediatric communication, including articulation therapy, AAC, and supporting autistic children & families using neurodiversity-affirming practices.

Emma values ongoing professional development and enjoys opportunities for continuous learning. She has completed The Hanen Centre trainings Four I’s to Socialize and SPARK Communication. She has also completed the Active Engagement (PreK–2nd Grade) course through Autism Navigator.

Emma resides in the Niagara Region and enjoys running, exploring trails, baking, and trying new crafting projects.

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Jenn Deans

Structured Literacy Instructor, OCT

Jenn Deans

Structured Literacy Instructor, OCT

Jenn is a recently retired Ontario Certified Teacher with over 25 years of experience supporting learners from Kindergarten through Grade 8. As a Special Education and French specialist, she has taught a wide variety of learners. Her passion is providing individualized and small-group intervention in reading and writing to help close gaps for students who struggle in the regular classroom.

Her skills lie in removing barriers, applying differentiated instruction, and helping students build confidence and independence as readers and writers.

Jenn lives in Hamilton with her husband, two human kids, and two canine kids. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, reading, yoga, swimming, and watching sports.

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Christine Matyas

Structured Literacy Instructor, OCT

Christine Matyas

Structured Literacy Instructor, OCT

Christine is a passionate and caring literacy educator with extensive experience supporting children across Ontario in becoming confident, capable readers. She is a certified member of the Ontario College of Teachers and holds Specialist qualifications in Reading and Special Education, enabling her to support learners with a wide range of strengths and needs.

Christine currently works with the Niagara Catholic District School Board, where she has had the privilege of supporting students and collaborating with educators to strengthen literacy instruction. Over her twenty-five years with the board, she has taught grades K–6.

As part of her professional role, Christine has also helped facilitate teacher training across the board, with a focus on the Science of Reading and UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) approaches. This work has deepened her expertise in structured, evidence-based literacy instruction that supports both struggling readers and those ready to extend their skills.

In her private literacy instruction, Christine creates a warm, encouraging environment where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn. She believes every child can grow as a reader when given the right tools, explicit instruction, and positive reinforcement. Her goal is not only to improve reading skills, but also to build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

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Sidra Ahmad

Speech-Language Pathologist

Sidra Ahmad

Speech-Language Pathologist

Sidra is a Speech-Language Pathologist living in Caledonia, Ontario. Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, she completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of Alberta and earned her Master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology from the University of Essex, UK.

Sidra has experience in private practice, supporting children with speech sound disorders, language delays, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She is passionate about making therapy fun, functional, and family-focused, always centering her care around each child’s unique needs.

Sidra is a registered member of the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO) and Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC).

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Merisa Dardigan

Virtual Admin Assistant

Merisa Dardigan

Virtual Admin Assistant

Merisa graduated from Mohawk College in 2008 with a diploma in Medical Office Administration. She brings over 14 years of experience working as a medical administrative professional.

Much of her experience includes supporting a busy family practice clinic and a multidisciplinary wellness clinic with Naturopathic Doctors and Chiropractors. Merisa also worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital during the pandemic, further strengthening her knowledge of healthcare operations and patient care.

Merisa resides in Stoney Creek with her husband and daughter. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and traveling.

Merisa has a passion for discovering unique coffee shops, restaurants, and local hidden gems.