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.
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.
After two years of college, I pursued my studies to become a Certified Dental Assistant and gained over 10 years of experience in assisting. However, when I became a mother, I made the decision to dedicate all of my time and energy to raising my two incredible children. In my spare moments, I thoroughly enjoy creating lasting memories with my family and friends. Additionally, I have a passion for cooking and baking, which allows me to express my love for my loved ones through delicious homemade meals. I am excited to embark on this new journey at The Sensory Studio to assist and help families achieve their goals and milestones.
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.
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.
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!
Alessia received a Bachelor of Science from Sacred Heart University in 2022 with a major in Psychology and minor in Communication Disorders. She received a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from Kean University in 2024. She is currently in the process of obtaining her certification for Teaching Students with Speech-Language Disabilities (TSSLD). Alessia’s diverse clinical practicums in preschool and inpatient/outpatient settings equipped her with skills to treat a variety of communication disorders including language disorders, articulation disorders, autism spectrum disorder, aphasia, dysphagia, and cognitive aspects of communication disorders. Alessia is looking forward to continuing her education, collaborating with therapists, and building strong connections with clients and their families to ensure each child is achieving success at the Sensory Studio.
Isabella earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wagner College in 2021 and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from CUNY Brooklyn College in 2024. She holds a Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) certification. Through her graduate placements, Isabella gained experience treating clients across the lifespan—from early intervention to adults—in various settings, including private practices and schools. She has experience in addressing speech sound disorders, language delays/disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and providing functional communication training (FCT) with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Isabella’s teaching philosophy emphasizes seeing the child before the diagnosis, focusing on each child’s unique strengths, interests, and personality. She is passionate about collaborating with families and empowering children to communicate effectively and confidently. Isabella began her journey at The Sensory Studio as an intern, then worked as office staff, and later completed her final externship here. She is excited to rejoin The Sensory Studio, this time as a clinician!
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.
Katherine attended The University of Scranton where she received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science. During her time at Scranton, Katherine was a member of the Student Occupational Therapy Association and chair of the Relay for Life event on campus. Katherine completed fieldwork rotations in pediatrics, mental health, inpatient rehab, skilled nursing, and outpatient therapy. After graduating, Katherine gained valuable experience working in hospital and skilled nursing facility settings. Katherine is very excited to begin her pediatric occupational therapy journey and join the Sensory Studio team!
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!
Brianna earned her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Kean University, where she gained valuable experience in diverse clinical settings. During her training, she completed rotations at Staten Island University Hospital and Kessler Rehabilitation, working with both children and adults to help them overcome challenges and reach their full potential. These experiences reinforced her belief in the transformative power of occupational therapy.
Brianna’s journey with The Sensory Studio began in 2020, as a member of the front desk team. Now, she is thrilled to come back as a provider to continue to work alongside families to help their children grow and thrive. The Sensory Studio’s mission and values have always resonated with her, even during her undergraduate years, inspiring her dedication to pediatric rehabilitation and holistic family support.
With a warm and playful approach, Brianna uses play-based interventions to connect with children and empower them to reach their goals in a way that feels fun and meaningful. She understands that every child is unique and works closely with families to ensure that the skills developed in therapy carry over into their daily lives. She is passionate about equipping caregivers with tools and strategies to support their child’s progress beyond the therapy room.
Brianna believes in the importance of collaboration, recognizing parents and caregivers as the heart of a child’s care team. Her experience includes a 12-week caregiver and young child family support program, where she witnessed the profound impact of working hand-in-hand with families. She is also a contributing author on a pediatric research study to be published and presented at the upcoming American Occupational Therapy Association Conference in 2025.
For Brianna, occupational therapy is a calling to help children and families discover their unique strengths and navigate challenges with hope and confidence. She is honored to play a role in helping every child become their best, brightest self.
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.
Bana graduated from Fordham University with a Bachelor Degree in Media and Communications. Which she then went to pursue and attain her MBA in International Marketing from Coventry University, UK. She is enthusiastic about business operations and administrative workflows to ensure efficiency and accuracy for the organization.
She strives to be a resource for her community and participates in as many charity and fundraising opportunities as she can. In Bana’s free time, when she is not outside running around with her children, you can find her cooking and laughing alongside her husband, or behind a book enjoying a happily ever after.
HI! I’m Daijana Pegues, a site supervisor with twelve years of international experience. I’ve always had a passion for working with children, and I’m super excited to be joining The Sensory Studio. My journey in helping others and spreading positivity has led me here, where I’m eager to apply my communication skills to my role. Currently studying Speech Therapy, I’m enthusiastic about the opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives. I believe in the transformative power of language and am dedicated to fostering connections and understanding. With a heart for service and a spirit of adventure, I’m ready to excel in both my professional and academic pursuits.
Nikki received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Linguistics with a Certificate in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Rutgers University in May 2024. She will continue her education at Seton Hall University this fall to pursue her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Nikki hopes to work in a pediatric setting as her time at the Sensory Studio has cemented this passion. She had the opportunity to Intern at the Sensory Studio last summer and is overjoyed to be back on the administrative side. She is excited to come back and contribute to the team that has taught her so much both about the field and outside of it. Nikki thrives in a team environment where creativity and conversations flow freely. Nikki is happy to be back and learn more about her future career from experienced and personable professionals. In her free time, Nikki enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, and cooking the newest recipes she finds on social media.
Ana brings a rich and varied professional background to her role at The Sensory Studio. She has experience spanning customer service, assisting the disabled community, Ana offers a unique blend of skills and insights to her position.
Ana spent 8 years with a significant focus on supporting individuals with disabilities at Goodwill Industries, demonstrating a profound commitment to improving the quality of life for those she served.
When Ana is not in the office, you can find her planning trips for her amazing travel clients.
In her free time, Ana enjoys spending time with her family & friends, snuggling up with her 2 pups and of course traveling.
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. 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.
The Sensory Studio is a private, family-based practice specializing in pediatric speech therapy and occupational therapy in Staten Island, New York. Our skilled therapists are dedicated to unlocking the full potential of every child through individualized therapy programs tailored to their unique needs.
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