Saja Houmani

Saja is an experienced Speech and Language Therapist who specializes in a wide array of communication disorders. These include articulation and phonological disorders, fluency disorders such as stuttering, and language delays. She is skilled in addressing hearing impairments, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), language difficulties, and neurological conditions. Her expertise extends to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), with services provided in both English and Arabic.

Educational Background and Certifications
Saja graduated with a bachelor’s degree with honors from The Lebanese University and received specialized training in her field. She is certified in TED Exchange and Development Therapy (part 1) and trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach, which focuses on phonics-based reading and spelling. Her additional training includes a Multi-tiered System of Support in schools, social-emotional learning, classroom management, PECS, and Auditory Verbal Therapy (AVT), reflecting a comprehensive approach to education and therapy.

Professional Experience
With over six years of experience, Saja has developed a deep understanding of speech therapy needs across different demographics. She has held significant roles in training speech therapy students at the Islamic University of Lebanon, where she supervised speech therapy students, focusing on assessment, treatment, and clinical reporting. Her role at UNICEF, in partnership with MEHE to implement RACE II strategy (Reaching All Children with Education) in public schools during COVID-19 pandemic, showcased her adaptability. She introduced teletherapy to ensure the continuation of inclusive education in Lebanese public schools.

Philosophy and Approach:
Saja’s approach to therapy is both patient-centered and empathetic. She emphasizes the importance of understanding each individual’s unique challenges and needs. She believes in the power of neuroplasticity and the transformative potential of individuals, advocating for personalized and adaptable treatment plans. Her methods integrate family involvement and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure effective and comprehensive care.

Achievements and Milestones:
One of Saja’s proudest achievements is her role in training the next generation of speech therapists, which enhanced her teaching abilities and clinical practice. Her work with UNICEF in creating more inclusive educational environments through teletherapy is another cornerstone of her career, demonstrating her commitment to accessible and innovative care solutions.

Publications and Workshops:
Saja has led several workshops aimed at enhancing communication and supporting individuals with communication disorders:
Workshops for educators and parents in Lebanon on recognizing and supporting speech and language disorders.
In Dubai, she conducted workshops on identifying early signs of communication delays and disorders, emphasizing early detection and intervention.

Personal Motivation
Saja chose a career in mental health to integrate her family background in education with her passion for medical sciences. Witnessing her uncle’s journey with Alzheimer’s disease underscored the impactful role therapy can have on mental health and well-being, solidifying her commitment to her chosen field.