Michael ("Mister Mike") is a neurodivergent speech-language therapist specializing in the therapeutic communication support of neurodivergent children, teens, and adults. With a diverse educational and clinical background encompassing multiple disciplines, Michael is at the forefront of the movement in speech-language pathology to use affirming therapeutic approaches firmly rooted in the principles of neurodiversity. Michael is at the forefront of the movement to de-pathologize speech-language therapy for neurodivergent individuals with therapeutic approaches that are firmly rooted in the principles of neurodiversity. Michael believes clinicians must make every effort to consider the inner experience of neurodivergent individuals, to support their autonomy, honor their values, and support the development of effective self-advocacy strategies. He also specializes in supporting the development and use of language for Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs). Michael believes the most important metric of a therapy's effectiveness is improved quality of life for the neurodivergent individual.
 
Michael's pioneering work supporting young neurodivergent adults in transition-to-work programs such as Project SEARCH® and Community Connection of Howard County has brought needed attention to the critical role of the language of self-identity and self-advocacy in successful employment outcomes. At the university level, Michael's experience supporting autistic and ADHD college students in the University of Maryland SIGNA program taught him the importance of executive functioning support and self-advocacy in the academic setting. Understanding that no two children are alike, Michael is passionate about creating communication interventions that are tailored and individualized for every child with communication differences. He believes that therapy should be meaningful to the child, strengths-based, and neurodiversity-affirming. Michael and his wife live in Gaithersburg, MD and are the proud parents of two neurodivergent children.