My Story
KERRI BERARD M.S., CCC-SLP
I have been a licensed speech therapist since 2018 and developed a specialization in stuttering therapy over time. My interest in stuttering began over 10 years ago when I was a counselor at Camp SAY - an overnight summer camp for kids who stutter. It was there that I began to understand the holistic impact of stuttering and experienced the life-changing power of the stuttering community. Since then, I've remained committed to understanding the experience of people who stutter and actively sought out trainings to best support those I serve.
My Therapy Values
I believe treatment should be client-led and know the client is the expert of their own therapy and stuttering journey. I prioritize individualized treatment and tailor my support to what is comfortable for the client. I value providing high quality services rooted in current research and expertise. I understand that stuttering is a complex disorder that impacts the person's feelings, thoughts, choices, and life beyond the repetitions or pauses in their speech. I aim to provide a wholistic approach that supports the true impact of stuttering.
My Stuttering Training and Experience
I hold the Ally of Stuttering designation. The Ally of Stuttering SLP designation is an acknowledgment of 1) active and intentional training in the area of stuttering/cluttering, 2) commitment to continued training in stuttering/cluttering, and 3) involvement in the stuttering/cluttering community via events, conferences, camps, or support groups.
I value making genuine connections with people who stutter and their families. I have been a Chapter Leader for a National Stuttering Association Family Chapter since 2020 and volunteer as the Family Chapter Coordinator at the national level. In 2023, I was honored with the awards “Chapter Leader of the Year” and “Family Chapter of the Year.”
I have completed a variety of advanced trainings on various stuttering treatment approaches. I was honored to be selected as a 2024 Eastern Stuttering Workshop participant in which I completed a week of advanced stuttering training.
I seek out intentional mentorship from experts in the stuttering therapy community. I am working towards obtaining a specialty credential in stuttering and know my clients deserve a therapist who continues to learn how to best support them.
TREATMENT APPROACHES I'VE BEEN TRAINED IN
Person Centered Treatment
Trauma Informed Treatment
Avoidance Reduction Therapy for Stuttering (ARTS®)
Palin Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Solution Focused Brief Therapy Applications for Stuttering
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Applications for Stuttering