Hello! I am Abby. I am a speech-language pathologist with a passion for the hard work of play. I believe access to communication is a human right and value all forms of communication equally. It is my job to meet a child where they are, join them in their play, and provide support for their communication development. I love working with children and collaborating with their families.

I completed my master’s degree at Eastern Michigan University. Over the last several years, I have worked in early intervention and public schools with preschoolers through young adults. I am nationally certified and licensed in the state of MI.

At home, I have a husband, child, and 3 cats (never meant to have 3!). We love to spend time outdoors hiking, exploring, and adventuring whether it is a national park or our yard.

Special Interest Areas:

-Alternative and Augmentative Communication

-Early childhood language

-Narrative language development

-Providing affirming services for all abilities

Hello! I am Abby. I am a speech-language pathologist with a passion for the hard work of play. I ... Read More

Hi. I’m Deb Kubinski and I love being a speech-language pathologist, almost as much as I love children. I chose this field because I have an affinity for both. At its core, speech pathology is about empowering individuals; it’s about finding their strengths and building on them. No matter the population or setting, my goal is always self-actualization. I’m especially passionate about literacy and have devoted countless hours to it in both professional and volunteer capacities.

I graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 1995 with a master-of-arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, as well as an elementary teaching certificate. While at EMU, I had the privilege of serving as the president of our local chapter of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, which afforded me leadership opportunities to promote professional growth among my fellow students.

Since graduating, I have published and spoken at state and national conferences and I currently have an educational game in the works. I am in a wonderfully diverse field and I have tried to take full advantage of everything it has to offer. I have worked in skilled nursing homes and practiced home health care. I worked at the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan on the traumatic brain injury unit and the spinal cord injury unit, as well as the outpatient campus. I’ve also worked in clinics, schools, and other settings. My heart has always belonged to the little ones, though. I love the innocence and curiosity that young children possess. I am so excited to be a member of the Play Awhile family. I’m thrilled to be working with young children again and I look forward to meeting many more wonderful families.

Currently, my husband and I are semi-empty-nesters. Our son Jacob is married and training to become a paramedic in the Mt. Pleasant area. Our daughter Anna is in the GVSU nursing program and lives with us between semesters. They are my pride and joy. I sometimes can’t believe what a lucky mom I am.

When I’m not at work or with family, you can find me out on the Zumba dance floor or curled up with a good novel.

Hi. I’m Deb Kubinski and I love being a speech-language pathologist, almost as much as I love chi... Read More

Hi, I’m Grace. I received my bachelors degree in human biology, and my masters degree in communicative sciences and disorders, both from Michigan State University (go green!). I am a recent graduate, and am excited to finally be working in the field.

I have a diverse background in speech-language pathology, with experiences ranging from school-based services, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. My passion lies in building strong relationships with my clients and their families, as I believe the greatest gains in therapy are made when a child feels truly comfortable and connected with their therapist. I also have a passion for play-based and evidence-based therapy.

I have a HUGE extended family, and grew up around lots of baby cousins, this is where my love for working with children stems from! I also am a lover of the outdoors, reading, and any and all artistic outlets.

My clinical interests include:

-Communication differences related to Autism

-Alternative and Augmentative Communication

-Building a strong language and early literacy connection.

-Early Childhood Speech and Language

Hi, I’m Grace. I received my bachelors degree in human biology, and my masters degree in communic... Read More

Hi, I’m Olivia! I’m a speech-language pathologist by day, and a player at heart! From the living room to the therapy room, I’ve observed how taking a play-based approach to life leads to stronger language skills, relationships, and overall enjoyment of life!

In 2014, I graduated with my master’s from Eastern Michigan University. While at school, I was honored to be a Brehm Scholar, named most outstanding graduate student, and successfully defended my thesis.

After working in schools for years, I decided to take the plunge into the world of private practice. Over the past three years, Play Awhile has expanded to include a talented team of therapists, office staff, and neurodiversity affirmative services for local children and beyond!

Now, I work directly with my ideal clients (if you’re wondering, it’s young neurodivergent kids!) and am hard at work on developing my framework for playful parenting and therapies: The Play Awhile Approach.

Hi, I’m Olivia! I’m a speech-language pathologist by day, and a player at heart! From the living ... Read More

Hi! My name is Sara. I have a passion for helping kiddos learn and enhance their communication skills with family members, peers, and others using all types of communication avenues. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Communications Sciences and Disorders at Wayne State University and recently graduated with my master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Toledo in May 2023. I am also currently earning my certificate to become a reading tutor to enhance literacy skills in children and adults. In my free time, I enjoy going on hikes, taking yoga classes, reading, spending time with family, and taking trips to the beaches in Michigan.

My areas of clinical interest are:

-augmentative and alternative communication

-apraxia of speech

-literacy

-early intervention.

Hi! My name is Sara. I have a passion for helping kiddos learn and enhance their communication s... Read More