About

WHAT WE ARE ABOUT

We are a full-service private practice that provides evaluation, diagnosis, and individualized treatment. Speech Therapy Partners, Inc. (STP) is based in Redondo Beach, California. STP offers in-home and clinic-based speech, language, and feeding therapy to clients in the South Bay (including, but not limited to: Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Torrance, El Segundo), North Long Beach and Lakewood area.

We are a team of highly innovative and highly passionate clinicians. Our California licensed and American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) certified therapists are trained to create multi-modal experiential learning opportunities. In addition to working with children and their families, the therapists at STP are also dedicated about working with teens, young adults and adults with communication needs.

MEET THE TEAM

Julie Kristie Carrillo M.A.CCC-SLP
President - Director of Clinical Services

Amy Walter M.A., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

BIO

I received my education and training in the Midwest. I have a variety of clinical experience with a range of populations from preschool to adults. My practicum included varied settings such as preschool, elementary school, rehabilitation/hospital, and non-profit clinic.

After graduating, I focused my skills at a non-profit clinic working with individuals with severe physical and cognitive disabilities. I gained valuable knowledge of AAC devices to include evaluation, programming, and implementation.
I have also worked in elementary schools where I gained insight to the needs of children with specific learning disability, autism, Down’s syndrome, and cerebral palsy. I collaborated with other disciplines and educators on a daily basis in high paced school districts.

After years working in the schools, I switched my focus back to AAC. I teamed up with a local private consulting company to provide AAC evaluations, trainings, and presentations. We partnered with local school districts and families to find solutions for students with high impact communication needs.

Most recently, the private practice setting has matched my values and philosophies. I believe the benefits and quality of individual and small group instruction are ever present in a private practice setting. I am comfortable and naturally suited to provide therapy to early intervention, preschool, and elementary aged-students. As a mom of 4 boys, I hope to add a unique perspective and share personal experiences.

I have training and experience using the following techniques: PROMPT-Level 1 training, Lindamood Bell Visualizing & Verbalizing, Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking Program, Expanding Expression Tool, and DIR/Floortime Approach.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? Hard to limit it to just one thing. The staff and families are amazing, which makes for a fantastic work environment. The quality of treatment is top notch…STP allows us to be creative and focused with individualized therapy sessions.
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? I worked at the NPR radio station in Oxford, Ohio while getting my Master’s degree. It was totally random that I was hired, but I did on-air reporting and covered local public interest stories. Very interesting to say the least!
What are 3 words that best describe you? Honest, Hard Working, Concerned
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? If I were an animal, I'd be a dog...I'm loyal and a good team/family member, happy lounging around but don't mind a long walk or good either.
What did you want to be when growing up? I went through a phase when I wanted to be an astronaut or pilot.
What is your favorite meal? Grilled salmon, greens, and quinoa.
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? We are an active family with 4 boys, but still make time to run, play soccer, and when very lucky catch a yoga class.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? “Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you.” (Dr Seuss)
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? A giant hamster for sure! The cute factor would definitely help get me out of any trouble caused by being so big.

Irma Stojanovic, M.A. CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

BIO

I received my B.A. from UCLA in Comparative Literature and my M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from CSULB. During my training, I gained clinical experience in a variety of settings, including non-profit clinic, private clinic, preschool, elementary school, and medical rehabilitation. I evaluated and treated clients ranging from 18 months to adulthood with various communication disorders. After completing my training, I served as full-time SLP in an elementary school in Fountain Valley, where I worked closely with a multidisciplinary team and families to help K-5 students achieve academic success. I provided speech-language services for students in general education and mild-moderate special day classes with language disorders, phonological disorders, pragmatic communication disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, fluency disorder, visual impairment, intellectual disability, and apraxia of speech.

I discovered my love for the private practice setting while working for Speech Therapy Partners (STP) for three years as an SLP Assistant during my M.A. studies. I decided to return to STP to continue to pursue this passion in my role as an SLP. I enjoy working one-on-one with children, providing support to their families, and sharing in the joy of their progress. In addition to working with young children with speech-language delays and school-aged clients with various communication disorders, I am PROMPT trained and have experience treating children with apraxia of speech. I make it a priority to tailor sessions to each client’s needs while working closely with families. I strongly believe that therapy needs to be fun, engaging, and supportive in order to help children reach their full communication potential.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? I love how closely we work with families! It is so important to help families gain knowledge of how to support their child’s communication development at home.
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? I managed an MBA program at UCLA, where I often got to travel to Singapore and India!
What are 3 words that best describe you? Compassionate, Caring, Silly
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? I would be a cat, because I love to lounge around in the sun.
What did you want to be when growing up? An actress, because I spent my childhood in a theater watching my parents act.
What is your favorite meal? I can never say no to a burger and fries!
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? I love to read and garden – I’m a little bit of a grandma. I also love to spend time with my friends and family, eat, and go to the beach.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? Just enjoy being 13 and don’t rush growing up.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? A tiny elephant, because elephants are just way cooler than hamsters.

Ursula Marin M.A., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist Clinical Fellow

BIO

I earned my B.A. in Psychology from CSUN. During my undergraduate studies, while taking a behavior class as an elective to fulfill a major requirement, I was advised by my professor to learn more about the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and pursue work in this area. I found a job with an ABA agency as an early interventionist, where I worked for over 5 years. In that setting, I had an opportunity to observe many speech-language therapy sessions and fell in love with the field. I decided to go back to school and earn an M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from CSULB. During my graduate studies, I gained valuable clinical experience with an eclectic population including children with ASD, cerebral palsy, down syndrome and other congenital disorders, as well as the implementation of AAC for those with complex communication needs.

My biggest passion in the field of Speech-Language Pathology is working closely with parents and caregivers, empowering them by giving them tools and skills they need to be active participants on their child's language development journey.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? I love how partnering with parents is central to our values and work with our clients. Our team is awesome and the clinicians are knowledgeable and approachable.
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? I worked as a massage therapist right out of highschool for close to a year. I took a summer intensive course when I graduated and it was such a fun experience!
What are 3 words that best describe you? Compassionate, friendly, understanding
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? I would be a tardigrade. Tardigrades are micro animals. Also known as water bears, these cute little guys can survive in the vacuum of space. But the real reason I'd like to be a tardigrade is that I'd like to know if they can see atoms, or at least molecules. The subatomic universe fascinates me.
What did you want to be when growing up? A grown up. I wanted to eat dessert for lunch everyday and watch whatever I wanted on TV. But then I grew up and I eat salad almost everyday for lunch and never have time for TV. Needless to say, it did not turn out as planned... -_-'
What is your favorite meal? Pasta! I looooooove pasta! All kinds of pasta! But Lasagna and Carbonara are my top 2.
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? I homeschool my kids, so I love to learn about homeschooling, pedagogy and the like. And I also enjoy baking and hiking. I think the hiking is a necessity, given the baking. As soon as I'm able, I'll learn to paddleboard! :)
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? Slowdown! You'll have your whole life to be grown up.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? I would prefer to be a tiny elephant because they have an awesome trunk and I'd love to have a trunk and an elephant's memory!

Nana Yogi M.S. CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist

BIO

I completed my undergraduate studies at UCLA in Psychology and my master's at Chapman. I did not know speech-language therapy was an occupation until I followed my client during my behavior therapy job. That is when I realized my client can speak more intelligibly with support. That was also when I realized all of the tantrums were due to communication breakdowns. I was fascinated in the field and excited about being able to communicate with my clients. Soon after my interest in speech-language therapy, my grandpa unfortunately passed away from a stroke. This is where I also learned that speech-language therapy not only works on speech but also for swallowing. I was shocked about how I had gone so far not knowing about this profession and how much help it has to offer. I am excited to work with my clients in speech therapy and hope to have an impact in their life. I also would like to spread awareness about this field and signs people can look for to get services as soon as possible.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? My favorite part about working for STP is meeting my clients and building a relationship with them.
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? I used to be a behavioral therapist and I loved going on outings like the mall, movie theater, and restaurants to practice what my clients have been working for.
What are 3 words that best describe you? Funny, friendly, and creative
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? If I were an animal I would be a koala because I am a night owl and I sleep a lot.
What did you want to be when growing up? Growing up I wanted to be an author or a flight attendant.
What is your favorite meal? I will always eat anything with potatoes!
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? I love going to Disneyland!
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? I would probably tell myself to keep enjoying the good times and take more pictures and videos of friends and family.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? I would want to be a giant hamster because I am short. I would love to be giant!

Reanna Hill, B.A., SLPA
Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant

BIO

Growing up I always had a connection with children. At the start of college, I knew I wanted to work with children but I did not know which exact career would fit best for me. When I transferred from Pierce college to Cal State LA as a child development major I was still lost when it came to which career path I wanted. I took a communication disorders class my first quarter there and immediately fell in love. I walked to the office and changed my major that day. I graduated in 2014 with a B.A. in Communicative Disorders and obtained my SLPA license through a SLPA program at Cal State LA. Shortly after graduation I began working at a small private practice in Santa Clarita. After three years I made the decision to move to beautiful Redondo Beach where I found Speech Therapy Partners. I am extremely passionate about my job and I love the opportunity to see my clients grow thrive.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? My favorite part about working for STP is the positive atmosphere and collaboration between therapists.
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? Before working at STP the most interesting job I've had was a camp counselor at a summer camp. I was able to take the kiddos around to do horse back riding, go carts, and a zip line.
What are 3 words that best describe you? Outgoing, personable, enthusiastic
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? If I were an animal I would be a Giraffe because at 6ft tall I look like one.
What did you want to be when growing up? Growing up I wanted to be an actress. After I was the lead in my fifth grade school play and made my mom cry after singing, I believed I had what it took to be an actress. My singing abilities have since dwindled.
What is your favorite meal? I love ALL food but if I had to choose my favorite meal is Sushi.
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? Some hobbies I have include volleyball, hiking, and swimming. I enjoy all outdoor activities and will never turn down an adventure.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? At age 13 I would tell myself that everything happens for a reason. Live life to the fullest!
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? Tiny Elephant because it is cuter than a giant hamster and Ive been tall my whole life and I would want to know what it is like to be small .

Donna Faith Malufau, B.A., SLPA
Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant

BIO

I was born in the Philippines and came to the United States when I was only 14 months old with parents. I have always lived and grew up in the south bay (Torrance/Carson area). I have always wanted to work with children as a career, however I took a different path and tried to fulfill my parents typical Filipino wish of becoming a nurse, but that didn't go as planned. I thought about becoming a teacher at one point but I felt that wasn't my calling. My cousin who is an Occupational Therapist introduced me to the Speech Therapy field as she collaborates with them at work and as I did my research about the field I knew that was my calling. Cerritos College is where I completed the SLPA program in 2 years and graduated with my AA degree. During my fieldwork experience I completely fell in love with the field and was excited to know that I would enjoy every minute helping children find their voice.
I have been working as a SLPA for 3 years in the private clinic setting. I love that one on one connection with the child and also getting to know the families as well and being able to help them every step of the way with different techniques and strategies. I am currently enrolled in an online program to receive my B.S through Arizona State University and hoping to continue on to my Masters and become an SLP.
When I am not a full time SLPA or student, I love spending time with my little family. My husband and I have been married for 6 years and we have a beautiful baby boy, we love spending every minute with each other when we get the chance, especially with our fur babies BAMBAM & TOA.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? The ability to work and learn from other clinicians and being in a fun atmosphere.
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? I was working at Bath & Body Works as an associate and moved on up to the management team for 8 years. I worked at BBW during my whole college years and was surprised to get through school and being a supervisor at the same time.
What are 3 words that best describe? Hardworking, Organized, and Friendly
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? A dog. The love and loyalty for their owner is so unreal, and I love to lounge around too.
What did you want to be when growing up? When I was a kid I wanted to be a pediatrician
What is your favorite meal? I LOVE FOOD! but TACOS are my weakness.
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? I love spending time with my son, 2 fur babies and hanging out with friends/family.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? I would tell the 13-year-old me not to enjoy being a TEEN, live your life to the fullest and don't be in a rush to be an adult.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? A tiny elephant because they are cuter than a hamster and hamsters remind me of a mouse and I am not very friendly with rodents.

Alexis Castillo, B.A., SLPA
Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant

BIO

When I was deciding on what to major in going into college I was still undecided. Working with kids always came naturally to me and I wanted to explore my career options working with them. I was invited to observe an SLP at an elementary school and immediately thought that this field was something I could pursue. I saw the connection she had with those kids and how amazing it was to help someone develop their communication skills.

I began my education at a local community college and transferred to Cal State Fullerton to pursue my B.A. in Communication Disorders. During my program, I was selected to join CSUF’s first SLPA program where students could obtain licensure and begin working in the field. Shortly after graduation, I began my professional career at a private practice and have enjoyed this setting ever since! I have loved working at STP and working one on one with all of my clients. It is so inspiring seeing them develop their speech and language skills.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? I enjoy the one-on-one sessions with the kids that allow us to form strong bonds and I love the close relationship we build with each family.
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? One of the most interesting jobs I have had, before STP, was as a one-on-one paraprofessional at an elementary school. That really gave me a well rounded perspective on the needs of our students aside from speech and language support. I try to incorporate what I’ve learned from that experience into my work as a SLPA to better support my students.
What are 3 words that best describe? Three words that would best describe me are kind, understanding, and easygoing.
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? If I were to be any animal, it would be a house cat because then I could sleep and eat all day.
What did you want to be when growing up? Growing up I wanted to be a National Geographic photographer. I have always loved animals and nature, so anything that could allow me to travel across the world and observe the wonders of the world was what I wanted to do.
What is your favorite meal? My favorite meal is any type of pasta dish, I love pasta!
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? Outside of work I like to keep myself active by going to the gym, hiking, and running. I also love to relax at home and read a good book.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? I would tell my 13-year old self to explore all of my interests and enjoy being a teenager!
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? I would prefer to be a tiny elephant because elephants are amazing and intelligent animals.

Teresa Kent, B.A., SLPA
Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant

BIO

I have always enjoyed working with young children. I studied early childhood education at El Camino College and it has been my pleasure to have over 20 years of experience working as a preschool and TK teacher. In 2009, I became very interested in observing the work of the speech therapists at my school. I decided to go back to college to study communicative disorders and in 2011, I earned a B.A. degree in Communicative Disorders from Cal State L.A. I went on to complete my fieldwork and earn my SLPA license through Cal State Northridge. I now have over 12 years of experience working as a SLPA in both non-public and school district settings. I truly value the connections I have made with fellow educators, clinicians, families, and of course, the children. Being a SLPA is the greatest and most rewarding job I have ever had and coming into a private practice setting is the icing on the cake for me!

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? STP offers such a warm and inviting atmosphere for families and staff. I am proud to work alongside such talented and dedicated clinicians!
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? I worked as a hostess at Marie Callender's when I was a teenager. I had fun using the whipped cream machine to make fresh whipped cream using only heavy cream and sugar. It was so delicious! It rubbed off on me because now I love to create in the kitchen.
What are 3 words that best describe? Enthusiastic, playful, and creative.
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? I would be somebody's pet dog because I love to be comfy at home, eat snacks, socialize with others, and take long walks.
What did you want to be when growing up? A grocery store checker. My sister and I loved going to the grocery store with our mom and watching the checkers scan all the items. We played "store" at home and took turns being the checker. Our mom got us a calculator with a receipt printer and it added so much fun to our pretend play!
What is your favorite meal? Shrimp scampi and all things pasta.
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? I feel so lucky to live in beautiful Redondo Beach. As a South Bay native, I enjoy the beach life by being in the sun and taking long walks along the strand. I also enjoy container gardening, painting, cooking, and all the dogs.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? I would tell my 13 year old self that life is not a race. Slow down and take the time to experience the little things in life that bring us joy.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? Hamsters are somewhat cute while being tiny. I would definitely not want to see a giant rodent! I would rather be a tiny elephant, which seems kind of cute and whimsical.

Wendy Martinez
Office Administrator

BIO

I have worked in various work environments. When my child was diagnosed with a speech and language disorder I became involved with his therapy session and became extremely intrigued with the Speech Language Pathology Field. I received my B.A from Cal State Dominguez Hills in Business Administration. I am currently in the process of receiving my M.A in Speech Language Pathology. During this time I have gained much experience in this field both office procedures and actual field observations by personal experience. I decided to reach for my M.A as an SLP because I saw and felt the extreme change and help the SLP’s provided for my child. I now want to be able to help other kids and families grow with and help many people grow alongside their disabilities. I hope to gain much more knowledge and experience by working with the amazing people at Speech Therapy Partners.

FUN FACTS

What is your favorite part about working for STP Inc.? My favorite part about working for STP Inc. is working alongside such amazing therapists and wonderful families
Before working at STP, what was the most interesting job you've ever had? Before working at STP the most interesting job I’ve ever had was working as a parts inspector for an Aerospace parts company.
What are 3 words that best describe? Loving, Fun, Adaptable
If you were an animal, what would you be and why? I would be a cheetah because I am constantly on the move.
What did you want to be when growing up? When growing up I wanted to be a Mechanic.
What is your favorite meal? My favorite meal is Pizza.
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work? Some of my hobbies are making little girl headbands, and baby onesies. I also enjoy sewing, and watching movies with my kids, and spending time with my family.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? Not quite sure.
Would you rather be a tiny elephant or a giant hamster? Why? I would rather be a tiny elephant because if I were tiny I could squeeze through many places without being detected.

WANT TO BE A MEMBER OF THE TEAM?

Speech Therapy Partners is growing. Please contact us if you are a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist seeking full- or part-time employment. We are looking for fun, energetic and collaborative Team Members.