Director of Clinical Services and Founder of The Sensory Studio, Dr. Michele DeSimone CCC-SLP, built the practice based on clinical foundations of teamwork with professional collaboration and mentorship in mind. Dr. DeSimone has worked with children and their families for over 20 years. Michele holds a Doctoral Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Kean University. She obtained a Master’s Degree from New York University in Communication Sciences & Disorders and a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology. Michele holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is an active member of The Special Interest Groups in Speech-Language Pathology for Language Learning & Education, Neurogenic Communication Disorders, Craniofacial & Velopharyngeal Disorders, Issues in Higher Education, Administration & Supervision, Swallowing Disorders, School-Based Issues, and Global Issues in Communication Sciences & Related Disorders. The New York State Office licenses Dr. DeSimone for the Professions and she holds a Teacher of Speech and Language Disabilities certificate from The New York State Education Department, as well as a Speech-Language Pathology Certificate from The New York State Department of Health. Michele has extensive training in the treatment of pediatric motor speech disorders (including PROMPT and Kaufman Protocol Training), Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (including Oral Tethered Ties), Autism Spectrum Disorders, Peer Socialization Skills, and Early Childhood Language Development. Michele is very happily married and resides in Staten Island with her husband, ten-year-old son, and 3-Year-old daughter. She enjoys traveling for work and pleasure, practicing yoga, and cooking for her family.
Jaimie received her Bachelor of Arts from St. John’s University in Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology in May 2017. She then attended St. John’s University in Queens, receiving her Master of Arts in Communicative Sciences and Disorders in May 2019. Jaimie holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is licensed by the New York State Office for the Professions and The State of New Jersey. In addition, Jaimie holds a Teacher of Speech and Language Disabilities certificate from The New York State Education Department. During her graduate studies, Jaimie experienced working with both children and adults in various settings, including a District 31 public school, a skilled nursing facility, and inpatient and outpatient settings within Northwell Health Medical Center. She also volunteered for Loving Spoonful’s’ ensuring the safety of elderly adults during feeding. Additionally, Jaimie has participated in research on patients with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) at the graduate level. Jaimie had been an integral member of The Sensory Studio team since December 2015 as Practice Manager. Since graduating from St. John’s University with her Master’s degree, Jaimie has become a valued member of our clinical team as a Speech Language Pathologist. Currently, as Director of Operations, Jaimie works closely overseeing all departments. Jaimie has developed her clinical skills working with children and adults with receptive and expressive language impairments, articulation and phonology disorders, oro-myofunctional disorders, language learning disabilities, developmental delays, voice disorders, and autism. Jaimie has completed extensive training in assessing and treating orofacial myofunctional disorders through IOMI. Jaimie is motivated to continue advancing her clinical skills within this field. In her free time, Jaimie enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and riding quads.
Jillian attended Drew University and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Business Management. She began her career in the nonprofit world focusing on program support, which quickly shifted to program management, operations, and development. From there, she moved into the corporate manufacturing industry of fine Spirits, further developing her financial and personnel operational skills and her understanding of overall production operations. After taking a short break to enjoy being a stay-at-home mom, she was welcomed as a new member of the Sensory Studio’s team. As the Business Development Director, Jillian is central to upholding the Sensory Studio’s cornerstone values, improving the operational systems, and enhancing the professional guidance offered to each employee. In this role, she also spearheads staff recruitment.
Jillian is happily married and the mother of two fantastic children, Ethan and Annabella. She’s an avid soccer player, overall games enthusiast, and loves anything outdoors and active.
Elizabeth graduated Wagner College in 2004, where she received a Bachelor in Psychology. Shortly after, she attended College of Staten Island for a brief period with the intention of receiving a Masters in Social Work. However, Elizabeth began working in the Early Intervention Program as a Service Coordinator, and decided Early Childhood Education would be her career path of choice. During her time as a Service Coordinator, Elizabeth gained priceless experience developing therapeutic service plans, guiding families, and networking with OT/PT/ST/ SE professionals. She graduated from Touro College with a dual Masters in Early Childhood General Education /Special Education in 2010. Elizabeth transitioned from the role of Service Coordinator to Special Educator, providing home based therapy for almost a decade within the autism community. As a home-based therapist, she directly collaborated with families and the multidisciplinary teams in developing optimal treatment approaches catered to the individual child. Elizabeth expanded her education by obtaining a certificate in nutrition through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, as well as a 200 hour yoga certification. Elizabeth whole-heartedly believes in looking at each client comprehensively, pulling from her background in psychology, education, nutrition and yoga. Elizabeth is honored to have been a part of the Sensory Studio since the early days, and takes pride in the exemplary services provided by all. Elizabeth seeks to bring her 20 years of experience in this field to the therapists and families of the Sensory Studio with continued passion and determination. Elizabeth enjoys the simple pleasures in life, including watching her daughter grow, family, friends, belly laughs, and being outdoors.
Kayla graduated from Binghamton University in May of 2021, where she obtained her bachelors degree in Psychology. She hopes to continue her education in the near future to become a Speech Language Pathologist. She is excited to gain valuable knowledge from joining The Sensory Studio team. Kayla’s interests include traveling, baking, and trying new restaurants.
Wendi graduated from SUNY Cortland in May of 2022, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Business Economics with a minor in Computer Application. Throughout her studies at SUNY Cortland, she was a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Investment Club, Habitat for Humanity (since 2016!) and earned a spot on the President’s list for her academic excellence. In her free time, she enjoys playing volleyball, camping and taking her dog Subie to the park.
Regina graduated from Brooklyn College in June of 2015, where she obtained her Bachelors of Science in Business Management and Finance. After graduating, she was accepted into the Disney College Program and was able to be a part of Disney’s unique culture and diverse community. While being in the program, she was able to create magical moments for children and families! When she moved back to NYC, Regina pursued her love for cooking and graduated with a diploma in Culinary Arts and received a leadership award at the Institute of Culinary Education in 2019. She then launched her first food business called “Oohlam” in 2021. While working at The Sensory Studio, Regina hopes to continue helping children and their families achieve their goals and milestones.
Brianna is from Staten Island, New York. She graduated from Kean University in 2020 with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a focus in Occupational Therapy. She is currently continuing her education at Kean University, studying to obtain her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Brianna has a love for learning and an interest in various therapeutic settings. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, cooking, traveling and going on walks with her golden retriever.
Emily received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology in 2017 and her Masters degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2019 from St. John’s University. Since graduating, Emily has been working for The Sensory Studio, servicing early childhood, pre-school and school-aged children in both school and outpatient settings while continuing to grow within her field. Emily holds a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language disabilities certification, is Level I PROMPT trained, is completing course-work in Gestalt Language Processing, and has completed workshops in clinical supervision for graduate clinicians.
Diona received her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at St. John’s University in Queens in 2016. She then received her Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology at Monmouth University in 2018. Diona holds a Teacher of Speech and Language Disabilities certificate from The New York State Department of Education and a Certificate of Clinical Competence from The American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. Diona has gained experience during her graduate career with pediatrics and adults within the school setting and nursing facility. Diona has experience working in the school setting with students with autism, Down Syndrome, phonological disorders, language impairments, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. She is trained in PROMPT therapy, which she incorporates into her assessment and treatment.
Kristen is from Staten Island, New York. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from St. John’s University (Staten Island) in 2015 and her Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from St. John’s University (Queens) in 2017. Kristen is dual-licensed in New York State and New Jersey, has her Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities initial certification and currently holds a Certificate in Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Kristen’s graduate school clinical experience included pediatric and adult rehabilitation working in a variety of settings including Acute Care, Skilled Nursing, Inpatient Rehabilitation at JFK Medical Center, Outpatient Pediatrics, and Elementary and Middle school experience. Kristen has gained experience working with children with receptive/ expressive language impairments, articulation/ phonology disorders, developmental delays, autism, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. She is trained in PROMPT therapy and is a trained Orofacial Myologist Provider, which she incorporates into her assessment and treatment daily. Kristen spent time in Antigua, Guatemala working hands-on with infants, children and young adults diagnosed with swallowing disorders in a hospital/ orphanage located in Guatemala. Outside the office, Kristen enjoys hiking and traveling, listening to country music, spending time with family and friends, and exercising.
Nagwa is a Speech-Language Pathologist, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. Nagwa received her Bachelor’s Degree from Monmouth University in Biology with a minor in Communications Sciences and Disorders. She continued her education at Monmouth University to receive her Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2018. During her graduate school clinical experience, Nagwa worked with both children and adults across a variety of settings including a specialized school, private practice, and both inpatient and outpatient hospital settings. Nagwa holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is licensed by the New York State office of the Professions. Since graduating, Nagwa has experience working with children across the lifespan in the home-health setting. She is experienced in working with clients with a variety of communication and developmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), articulation deficits, expressive/receptive delays, and children with pediatric feeding disorders. Nagwa is passionate about providing care to these populations and building relationships with children and their families.
Kaylee graduated Cum Laude from La Salle University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Science and Disorders in 2021. She pursued her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology, graduating in May of 2023 from Rutgers University. She presented at the 2021 NJSHA Convention about Low/High tech AAC devices.
She has clinical experience providing speech-language therapy to children and adults with various communication needs, which include: articulation/phonological disorders, language disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, hearing impairments, voice disorders, various sensory diets, and more.
Kaylee is passionate about working with the pediatric population and she enjoys creating a fun, safe, and positive environment for children to flourish and learn. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, working out and taking on new hobbies.
Emily received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology at Iona University in 2021 and her Master of Science degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from New York University in 2023. Throughout her clinical placements, Emily has gained experience in working with both children and adults who presented with a variety of diagnoses and disorders. Emily’s clinical experiences include working as a graduate student clinician at the New York University Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic, the Richmond Pre-K Center, and Staten Island University Hospital. Emily is now completing her clinical fellowship and is in the process of applying for her Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities certification. Emily is passionate and motivated to work with the pediatric population and is excited to begin her career at the Sensory Studio!
Alexandra is a speech pathologist who holds a master’s degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from New York University. She obtained her undergraduate degree in speech-language pathology from St. John’s University in 2020. She began her work as a clinical fellow in Boston, MA, and is eager to finish her clinical fellowship year at The Sensory Studio. Alexandra has experience evaluating and treating children and adults with a variety of diagnoses, including but not limited to Down Syndrome, Apraxia of Speech, vocal fold nodules, aphasia, expressive and receptive language delay, articulation and phonological disorders, ASD, dysarthria, and gender-affirming voice modification. Through her graduate studies and previous work as a clinical fellow, she has worked at the NYU Speech and Hearing Clinic, both New York City and Massachusetts public schools, and a private practice serving patients across the lifespan. Outside of work, Alexandra loves traveling to new places, game nights with family and friends, interior design, and trying new recipes.
Kaila graduated from Molloy University with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in May 2023. Currently, she is applying for her Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) certification. Throughout her graduate studies, she worked as a research assistant to increase aphasia awareness and continues to pursue further investigation on the topic. She has experience working with various diagnoses and severities across the lifespan in diverse settings. Overall, Kaila is a fun and creative clinician eager to create great learning opportunities for her clients. She is excited to embark on her career and looks forward to contributing to the growing field of speech-language pathology.
Samantha attended Seton Hall University for both of her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She received her Bachelor’s in Elementary and Special Education in May 2021 and her Master’s in Speech Language Pathology in May 2023. Throughout her graduate clinical experience, she has had the opportunity to work with both pediatric and adult populations in a variety of settings, such as school settings, outpatient rehab, and inpatient acute rehab. She has a passion for working with the pediatric population and is a certified Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) in New York. She has experience working with children with autism, AAC, Expressive/Receptive delays, and a variety of communication disorders.
Maggie Barakat is originally from Arizona where she graduated with a Masters in Communication Disorders from Arizona State University in 2023. She had a series of impactful internships that allowed her to work with various populations and address diverse communication needs. These experiences covered a wide spectrum, including voice, language, cognitive communication, articulation, and augmentative and alternative communication. She is passionate about pursing her career as a Speech Language Pathologist and making a positive impact in peoples lives. Outside of work, Maggie enjoys exploring New York and hanging out with family and friends.
Maggie looks forward to collaborating with the team at Sensory Studio!
Emily Hannah Levkovich received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an emphasis on Childhood Development from Hunter College in 2017. She then went on to receive her Master of Sciences in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from New York University in 2020. While completing her education, Emily worked in Community Habilitation for four years with young adults on the Autism Spectrum, focusing on socialization and life skills training to increase their independence.
Emily is currently licensed as a Speech-Language Pathologist in New York and New Jersey, and she holds both a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities certificate by the NYDOE, and a Certificate of Clinical Competence by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association. During her graduate clinical rotations, Emily gained experience working with Autistic students at the Eden II School, incorporating teletherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic with the pediatric population at ABLE Acres in Arizona, and addressing aphasia, TBI, and dysphagia with the adult population at a skilled nursing facility. She has since gone on to work with the pediatric population in home-based and clinical settings, treating children who present with a variety of diagnoses, including receptive and expressive language delays, pragmatic language disorders, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, phonological and articulation disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, oral-motor delays, and feeding disorders.
Emily believes in incorporating play into treatment and following each child’s lead to create a motivating, individualized treatment plan that emphasizes strengths and natural interests, and she is passionate about implementing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods to provide unrestricted access to communication to all. She is currently learning more about Gestalt Language Processing in order to better support her Autistic clients. When she’s not working, you can find her traveling to new locations, baking up some treats, reading a book on her endless wishlist, or untangling yarn for her next project. She is learning amigurumi, the style of crocheting stuffed animals, and can’t wait to see what her clients think of them!
Carlie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in June of 2015 and later went on to receive her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from University of the Sciences in January 2018. During her graduate studies, Carlie experienced working with both children and adults in various settings, including New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell, District 31 Public schools, and outpatient settings. While practicing as an Occupational Therapist, a majority of Carlie’s experience was working with pediatric oncology patients at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She also has experience working in early intervention and the school setting, while working with a variety of diagnoses, including but not limited to: ASD, sensory processing delays, learning difficulties, ADHD, emotional and behavioral challenges, and neurological impairments. Carlie holds a certification as a Living in Place Specialist, helping individuals make their homes accessible and functional to allow independence in every day life. Carlie is passionate in providing care and working with the pediatric population, while providing a safe and fun environment to foster independence.
Raquel is 56 years young, born and raised in the Philippines and came here in 1990 on a work visa to work as an Occupational Therapist. She has continued to work in the occupational therapy profession since. Raquel is married and blessed with 2 beautiful children who she describes as the love of her life. She currently lives in Staten Island with her husband, 2 children, and their beloved Bichon Frise, Louis. Other than being a wife and mom, Raquel works full-time as an Occupational Therapist with the NYC EI PROGRAM through the DOH.
Nicole received her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science from Touro College. Her graduate school clinical experiences include patients and students across the lifespan, ranging from early childhood through adulthood. At this time, she gained experience in a variety of settings, including a District 31 community school, a rehabilitation center, as well as home-based and hospital-based early intervention services. After graduating, Nicole worked in a private preschool setting, providing services for students ages 2 through 5 with a number of sensory, fine motor, learning, and attentional difficulties.
Nicole currently works in a District 75 school for the NYC Department of Education, providing services to children with autism spectrum disorders, significant cognitive delays, and sensory impairments. She provides individualized treatment to each student and works on a range of skills to improve their ability to participate fully within the school environment. Nicole is eager to continue working with the pediatric population and their families to facilitate their growth and independence.
Alexandra attended Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut where she received a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy through a five and half year accelerated MOT program, as well as received a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science. She was an executive member of Quinnipiac’s Student of Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) during her senior year. She also was a committee member of QTHON, a fundraiser for Connecticut Children’s Hospital. During her graduate clinical rotations, she was able to gain experience at a neurorehabilitation outpatient center, sensory gyms, general education elementary school districts, and a school for children with Autism. Throughout these experiences she was able to work with a variety of adults and children with different diagnoses: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Global Developmental Delays, Sensory Processing Disorder, Social Emotional Dysregulation, CVA, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Functional Movement Disorder, Guillain-Barre, and more.
As a new grad, she is eager to grow as a professional and continuously expand her knowledge. She hopes to help her clients reach their full potential and exceed their goals.
Stephanie attended Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut. She received her Bachelor’s in Health Sciences with a minor in Biology. She then went on to receive her Master’s in Occupational Therapy. During her graduate studies, she was a graduate assistant for the Anatomy and Kinesiology courses within the occupational therapy program. Stephanie has experience working with a variety of populations including pediatrics, adults, and geriatrics. Her graduate school clinical experiences included elementary and middle schools, outpatient rehabilitation, and assisted living communities. Stephanie values using a client-centered and strengths-based approach in order to help her clients achieve their goals.
In June of 2023, Rebecca graduated from Stony Brook University, where she received her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Rebecca has experience in a multitude of settings including outpatient orthopedics, neuro rehabilitation, sensory and ABA therapy. Additionally, she completed a Fieldwork experience in an elementary school with the NYC Department of Education, taking a leadership role in conducting sensory-based sessions through the Sensory, Exploration, Education & Discovery (SEED) program. During the final semester of her graduate program, Rebecca, along with two colleagues, completed a capstone project. This project focused on training the staff of a local Long Island wildlife refuge in the integration of sensory elements into their curriculum, tailored to best meet the needs of neurodivergent learners. Rebecca is very excited to begin her career with the Sensory Studio, and eager to apply her skills in this incredible field.
Delia attended The University of Scranton and received her Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy. Delia completed fieldwork rotations in hand therapy, the NICU, inpatient rehab, recovery centers, and finally pediatrics at The Sensory Studio! In her senior year, Delia was the president of Scranton’s Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA). She was also co-chair of a campus group raising funds for Americas VetDogs, a non-profit organization that provides disabled veterans and first responders with service dogs free of charge. Delia is passionate about the impact of pediatric occupational therapy, as it allows therapists to creatively engage with children and their families, fostering growth, independence, and joy in every developmental milestone!
Nicole attended the College of Staten Island for two years and is certified in Personal Finance. Once getting married in 2010, she welcomed her first child and began working at Mount Loretto. There she had the privilege of working with individuals who had varying degrees of developmental disabilities. In early 2013, Nicole began her three-year journey in emergency services as an EMT. Although loving the emergency aspect of care, she was still searching for a place of work that felt more like home and would be an extension of the life she shares with her husband and three young children. By 2018, she joined The Sensory Studio team as a billing associate, where she worked up to her current position as Billing systems manager. Here, she handles different aspects of the company’s finances, and finally has a place to call home. During this time she was able to complete a course in Medical billing and coding, which assisted her in the endeavor to provide the best knowledge and support to the team. She also enjoys availing herself to new experiences with her husband, three kids and fur baby, through traveling, new cuisine and meeting new people while sharing in her volunteer Bible based educational work.
Originally raised in Brooklyn, Darian moved to Staten Island at the age of 14 and graduated from New Dorp High School in 2015. Darian enjoys time with her family and friends, baking and food! Darian is a Medical Claims Specialist in the billing department with over 2 years of medical terminology experience from previously working in Pediatrics. Recently accepted into CSI for Liberal Arts and Science with a major in Psychology, Darian is looking forward to starting her career in therapy. Darian is always motivated and looking for ways to better her skills within the billing department.
Kerry is a recent graduate from SUNY New Paltz with her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She has always had a passion for working with children, and has volunteered 100 hours as a teacher’s assistant in a kindergarten classroom in 2023. She has a good eye for detail, and her intuition and organizational skills are what makes her a strong leader. She is excited to apply her abilities to The Sensory Studio; and in turn, to gain knowledge, experience, and community from her peers. In the future, she plans to pursue graduate school and become a guidance counselor. On her time off, she is always ready for an adventure with friends and family. She loves the outdoors, but also makes time to stay in and read books.
Annemarie graduated from the College of Staten Island in May 2023 with her Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology. She currently attends Iona University and is working towards obtaining her Master’s of Occupational Therapy at Iona University. Previously an intern at the Sensory Studio, Annemarie now works on the public relations team. Working with social media at The Sensory Studio gives her the ability to expand her knowledge of occupational therapy while creating content on the subject! She is happy to be able to work in an environment in which she is able to grow as a future occupational therapist, and learn so much about the business aspect of the discipline. In her free time, Annemarie likes to spend time with her family and friends, especially at the beach or at concerts, and listen to One Direction.
