Week 3: Ableism Awareness

Written By Jody Vaynshtok

As we continue our journey in exploring the theme, “every voice matters” as a part of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, we look into ableism.

Every voice matters, and how we respond matters too.

Ableism can show up in subtle ways:

  • Expecting one “right” way to communicate

  • Interrupting or speaking for others

  • Prioritizing speed over understanding

What we can do instead:

  • Give time and space to communicate

  • Respect all forms of communication

  • Stay curious, not assumptive

Inclusion starts with awareness. This week our team continues to audit our language and examine our assumptions and attitudes along with active education through readings of disabled voices during our weekly team meeting.

Jody Vaynshtok
Jody is a California-licensed speech language pathologist with eight years of industry and clinical experience. She has worked with both adult and pediatric populations during her time at private practice, birth-to-three, and hospital facilities. She is experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of communication and cognitive disorders. In addition, Jody has a passion for working with adults looking to achieve clearer communication. Jody received her BS in Speech and Hearing Sciences and MS in Medical Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Washington. She was a part of the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford’s cleft and craniofacial clinic participating in the multidisciplinary assessment and treatment of children born with craniofacial abnormalities. She holds a staff position at UCSF and is the lead speech language pathologist for the department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery’s Hearing Loss Clinic. When she's not busy having fun with her clients Jody enjoys spending time with her husband, Anton, friends and family. And if she's not headed out somewhere fun for dinner, you might find her at Bar Method working out!
www.soundshc.com
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Get to know our newest team member Dr. Priscilla Giler