About Speech Matters

Providing the Key to Your Communication Success

Speech Matters, LLC. was founded in 2008 by me, Jacqueline Paterson, a speech language pathologist who has dedicated my life to enhancing communication for people of all ages and cultures.

My company was founded on the belief that communication is power, and is also the gateway to creating the life one aspires to reach. At Speech Matters, I treat the whole person, not only their communication difficulties. Whether you are experiencing difficulties in speech, language or learning or swallowing, my goal is to improve communication skills,address any muscular difficulties and empower people to express themselves to the greatest extent possible.

Services are provided in a knowledgeable, supportive and compassionate manner. I am invested in your progress, encourage family members to be involved in therapy and offer three decades of experience

Meet Jackie

I'm Jackie, and my journey into the world of speech pathology began at the age of 17 when I took my first class in the field at Catholic University of America. Little did I know, that single class would shape the course of my life forever.

After transferring to UMCP, I earned my BA in Hearing and Speech in 1983, graduating magna cum laude. Following my undergraduate studies, I embarked on a two-year journey as a job coach and supervisor at a Providence Center sheltered workshop for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here, in Annapolis, at the David Taylor Naval Station Research and Development Center, I had the privilege of teaching invaluable life skills to our clients, in a restaurant, where they learned to cook, serve, manage sales, bus tables, maintain health department standards and interact with customers.

In 1987, I earned my MA in Hearing and Speech Sciences from UMCP, completing clinical internships at prestigious institutions such as Walter Reed National Medical Center, Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, Montebello Rehabilitation Center, and Anne Arundel County Public Schools.

My career journey led me through a diverse array of settings, where I gained extensive experience working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. From hospital settings including Anne Arundel Medical Center, Laurel Regional Hospital, and Kernan Rehabilitation Hospital, to educational institutions such as Anne Arundel and Prince George's County Public Schools, Head Start, and early childhood centers (ECI), I've had the privilege of providing therapy and support to individuals across the spectrum. My expertise spans from preschool to senior high, encompassing schools for the severely to profoundly impaired, ensuring that I'm equipped to address a wide range of needs and challenges.

In 2005, I ventured to Wanganui, New Zealand, working with the indigenous Maori community in elementary to senior high schools. The following year, I was honored to be named International Speech Language Pathologist of the Year.

Driven by a passion for making a difference, I founded Speech Matters, LLC in January 2008, initially in the historical district of downtown Annapolis, MD. Now, with a home office established in 2016, I continue to serve my community with dedication and compassion.

Over the years, I've been humbled to receive recognition, including being voted Chesapeake Family Lifestyle Favorite Doc six times. Personally, I find joy in spending time with my three grown children and grandchildren, as well as pursuing interests such as rock 'n' roll and blues music, meditation, gardening, kayaking, and exploring new cultures through international travel.

As a life member of ASHA, a member of AAPPSPA since 2008 and IAOM since 2017, I am committed to continually enhancing my skills and knowledge in the field. Opening my home office in 2016 has allowed me to further personalize and deepen the impact of my services.

With a career spanning from acute injury to rehabilitation, from hospital to home care, and from outpatient centers to schools, I believe my diverse experiences have equipped me with a unique perspective, enabling me to approach each patient comprehensively.

Certifications & Credentials

License to practice in Maryland

National certification by the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA)

Member of Maryland Speech Language and Hearing Association (MSHA)

International Association of Orofacial Myology trained, ongoing continuing education includes 50 additional hours of continuing education as a Myofunctional Therapist

Member of the American Academy of Private Practice Speech Pathologists and Audiologists (AAPPSPA)

2005 International Health Professional of the Year nominee

Member of the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM)

Meet Cordelia

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Cordelia, my beloved therapy dog. Cordelia brings a special warmth and comfort to our therapy sessions, enriching the experience for both myself and my clients.

She is a Cavapoo, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. These hypoallergenic and highly intelligent dogs are known to be good therapy dogs due to their very affectionate, gentle and playful nature. Snuggling Cordelia is like cuddling up to a real life teddy bear.

Cordelia isn't just a furry companion; she's a support dog with a heart of gold. Her presence has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and even blood pressure in those she interacts with. Clients often find solace in her gentle demeanor and unconditional love, making it easier to open up and engage in therapy.

While Cordelia is a wonderful addition to our sessions, I want to emphasize that her presence is completely optional. I understand that not everyone may feel comfortable with dogs or may have allergies, and that's perfectly okay. Your comfort and well-being are my top priorities, so whether Cordelia joins us or not is entirely up to you.

For those who do choose to have Cordelia join us, I've seen firsthand the positive impact she can have on our work together. From providing a sense of calm during difficult discussions to simply offering a friendly paw to hold onto, Cordelia truly enhances the therapeutic environment in a unique and meaningful way.

So, whether you're a dog lover eager to meet Cordelia or prefer to focus solely on our therapy without her presence, know that I'm here to support you in whatever way feels best for you.

Speech Matters

TOUR THE OFFICE

I've created a family-friendly environment surrounded by trees, birds and green space to ensure my clients receive therapy in a comfortable and welcoming manner.

Contact Jackie

Over the years I’ve worked with

I work closely with schools, community groups, learning centers, state agencies and physicians in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County to ensure children, teenagers and adults are fully supported with their communication needs. I take pride in the relationships I’ve built over the years and love receiving great referrals for speech therapy services. Speech Matters is successful because of collaborative efforts.

Announcements/Events

I'm excited to share that I recently returned from Asmara, Eritrea, where I worked with Surgeons for Smiles. It was an incredible experience collaborating with dedicated medical professionals to provide essential care to those in need.

It was an honor to use my skills to help improve the lives of individuals in underserved communities. I'm passionate about making a positive impact through communication. Below are some photos from our journey and the meaningful work we accomplished!