Columbia, MD
2025 Summer Speaker Series
6/9/25: “Connected Hearts: Rebuilding Intimacy After Neurological Changes”
6/9/25: “Connected Hearts: Rebuilding Intimacy After Neurological Changes”
6/9/25: “Connected Hearts: Rebuilding Intimacy After Neurological Changes”
Presented by:
Dede Matrangola, MA CCC-SLP
Speech Langauge Pathologist
Certified Life Coach
Intimacy is more than physical—it’s about connection, trust, and shared meaning. This interactive session offers adults with aphasia and their partners a compassionate space to explore how communication challenges affect emotional closeness, physical intimacy, and relationship dynamics. Through guided reflection and shared strategies couples will gain tools to nurture connection, express needs, and rebuild their intimate bond after aphasia.
6/16/25: “Getting Started with AI & Accessible Tech"
6/9/25: “Connected Hearts: Rebuilding Intimacy After Neurological Changes”
6/9/25: “Connected Hearts: Rebuilding Intimacy After Neurological Changes”
Presented by:
Joan Green, MA CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
Assistive Technology Specialist & Tech Advisor
Discover how today’s technology can support connection, communication, & independence. This session is designed for seniors & adults with neurological changes, as well as the caregivers, family members, and professionals who support them. We'll explore easy ways to stay connected with loved ones, tech tools that support reading, writing, and speaking, accessibility features that make devices easier to use, and give you tips for getting more confident with technology - one small step at a time. No tech experience needed, just curiosity & interest in learning!
6/23/25: “Music as Therapy - How Music Can Support the Brain ”
6/9/25: “Connected Hearts: Rebuilding Intimacy After Neurological Changes”
6/23/25: “Music as Therapy - How Music Can Support the Brain ”
Presented by:
Kyle Vitiello, MT-BC
Music Therapist
Melody Music Therapy
Join us as we explore the applications and uses of music therapy in improving motor skills, speech, memory, and emotional well-being. We will explore how rhythm, melody, and familiar songs can be used to support and work towards these goals. Interactive activities as examples of how music therapy can function. No musical experience is needed- just an open mind and a love of music!
6/30/25: "Discover the Healing Power of Sound"
7/14/25: “BoneWise: Stronger Bones with Nutrition, Exercise & Informed Choices"
6/23/25: “Music as Therapy - How Music Can Support the Brain ”
Presentedy by:
Amanda Lane
Yoga Instructor
Founder of Liminal Space Yoga
Sound healing or sound therapy, is a gentle and relaxing approach to complement existing care. In this session, participants will experience live sound demonstrations and learn more about how therapeutic sound modalities can create a calmer nervous system by improving relaxation, reducing stress, and supporting emotional and neurological well-being.
7/7/25: "Financial Exploitation: Frauds & Scams Targeting Seniors"
7/14/25: “BoneWise: Stronger Bones with Nutrition, Exercise & Informed Choices"
7/14/25: “BoneWise: Stronger Bones with Nutrition, Exercise & Informed Choices"
Presented by:
Andre Lingham
Founder/President
Center for Elder
Justice & Education
It is estimated that seniors are scammed out of 36 billion dollars per year in financial exploitation.This presentation will cover different types of financial exploitation, scams and frauds that are targeting seniors and the best ways to minimize being victimized.
7/14/25: “BoneWise: Stronger Bones with Nutrition, Exercise & Informed Choices"
7/14/25: “BoneWise: Stronger Bones with Nutrition, Exercise & Informed Choices"
7/14/25: “BoneWise: Stronger Bones with Nutrition, Exercise & Informed Choices"
Presented by:
Kate Hernandez, DPT
Physical Therapist
Founder of Therapy in Motion
Join Dr. Kate Hernandez, DPT, for an empowering presentation that explores how to manage and improve low bone density through targeted exercise, nutrition, and medication when appropriate. Participants will learn practical, evidence-based strategies to protect their bones, build strength, and reduce fracture risk at any age.
7/21/25: "Introduction to Qigong for Neurological Wellness"
7/28/25: "Rewiring Through Relationships: Life-Changing Impacts of Group-Based Care
7/28/25: "Rewiring Through Relationships: Life-Changing Impacts of Group-Based Care
Presented by:
Amanda Lane
Yoga Instructor
Founder of Liminal Space Yoga
Qigong is an ancient Chinese mind-body practice that combines slow, intentional movement with breathwork and relaxation. In this session, we will discuss how Qigong can support balance, reduce muscle stiffness, calm the nervous system, and promote neuroplasticity, There will be gentle, guided instruction to also experience how this accessible practice can enhance mobility, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
7/28/25: "Rewiring Through Relationships: Life-Changing Impacts of Group-Based Care
7/28/25: "Rewiring Through Relationships: Life-Changing Impacts of Group-Based Care
7/28/25: "Rewiring Through Relationships: Life-Changing Impacts of Group-Based Care
Presented by:
Lisa Thornburg, MS CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
Director of SCALE Aphasia Program
& MS Day Program
Explore how group-based therapy programs support recovery and boost life participation for individuals with neurological changes. Structured group interaction fosters communication, confidence, and connection. Learn how these innovative programs create supportive, goal-driven communities. Learn how group dynamics can rewire not only the brain—but the path forward.