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Local Business Spotlight: Making Connections, LLC

Revolutionizing Speech Therapy in Jefferson City

By Chelsea Hesketh-Youss, Publisher for Macaroni KID Jefferson City - Fulton July 31, 2024

In the heart of Jefferson City, a remarkable local business is making waves in the field of speech therapy. Making Connections, LLC, led by Heather Dodd, a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with a Master of Science in Communication Disorders, is offering a specialized approach to speech therapy that is typically only available in large cities.


Heather Dodd, the founder and operator of Making Connections, has a profound understanding of the challenges that come with speech and language development. Her expertise extends beyond traditional speech therapy to include pediatric feeding therapy, assessment and treatment of tethered oral tissues, as well as Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, a unique specialty that addresses issues like disrupted sleep, airway issues, trouble eating/swallowing, malocclusion (over or under bite) as well as speech, language and motor delays.





Heather's journey into this niche area was deeply personal. Her own children faced a range of issues relating to her own field of study. Frustrated by the limited solutions offered by conventional medical practitioners such as pediatricians, ENTs, and dentists, Heather took matters into her own hands. She immersed herself in research and training to better support her children, leading to her advanced specialization in these critical areas.

This hands-on experience has uniquely positioned Heather to offer comprehensive and holistic care at Making Connections. She doesn't just address speech or language delays in isolation; she looks at the bigger picture, considering how various factors might be interlinked and impacting her clients' overall well-being. Her approach is to get to the root causes of issues and provide families with the tools and resources they need to improve health and wellness comprehensively.

**Services Offered:**

- FREE Consultations and Screenings: Heather provides initial consultations and screenings at no cost, allowing families to explore whether her services align with their needs.

- Comprehensive Assessments and Treatment: With a deep understanding of complex issues, Heather offers thorough assessments and tailored treatment plans to address a wide range of speech and language concerns.

- School Contracts: Recognizing the importance of collaboration in educational settings, Heather offers contracts with schools to provide speech therapy services directly within the academic environment.



Heather Dodd's dedication to her field and her community shines through in every aspect of Making Connections, LLC. By bringing advanced, city-level expertise to Jefferson City, she is not only making a difference in her clients' lives but also empowering families with the knowledge and support they need to navigate their unique challenges. Through her work, Heather aims to alleviate the struggles that many families face, ensuring they have access to the specialized care and resources that can lead to a better quality of life.


For those seeking a speech therapist with a holistic approach and a deep personal commitment, Making Connections, LLC stands out as a beacon of hope and expertise in Jefferson City.