Speech Language Pathologist
Nivanka R Nishanth
Nivanka is a speech-language pathologist with 9 years of experience across diverse clinical settings, including clinics, training institutes, hospitals, and private practice. She specializes in treating speech and language disorders in both children and adults and has hands-on training in swallowing rehabilitation for individuals with head and neck cancer, as well as neurological conditions.
Her expertise includes conducting webinars on Neuro-Affirming Practices for Autism Spectrum Disorder, leading Instagram Live sessions on AAC, and delivering internal trainings on Gestalt Language Processing. She has also contributed to the development of evaluation test materials and a Down Syndrome training manual. An OPT level course 1 and course 2; PROMPT Level 1, AVAAZ certified AAC professional, Hands on training on FEES, she is currently enhancing her skills in Natural Language Acquisition Levels 1 and 2 to better support her clients.
Coordinator Clinical Services
Language Proficiency
English, Tamil
About Me
Practicing since 2016
With 9 years of experience, I have worked across clinics, hospitals, training institutes, and private practice, supporting both children and adults with speech and language disorders. I am trained in swallowing rehabilitation for head and neck cancer and neuro patients and have completed foundation hands-on FEES training.
I have hosted webinars on Neuro-Affirming Practices for Autism Spectrum Disorder, led an Instagram Live series on AAC, and participated in sessions for Mental Health Day and World Book Day. I have also conducted internal training on Gestalt Language Processing and contributed to the development of evaluation test materials and a Down Syndrome training manual.
To expand my knowledge, I have attended RCI-approved seminars on the assessment and rehabilitation of children with language disorders. I am an AVAZ-certified AAC professional , OPT level course 1 and course 2 and PROMPT Level 1 certified. Currently, I am advancing my skills through training in Natural Language Acquisition Levels 1 and 2.
Education
MSc. Speech Language Pathology
All India institute of speech and hearing, University in Mysore
BSc. Audiology and speech language pathology
Sri Ramaswamy Memorial Institute of Science and Technology
Certifications
CRR NO. - A56497
Rehabilitation Council of India
Memberships
Rehabilitation Council of India
Awards
01
Clinical Expertise
My research interests lie at the intersection of clinical linguistics and evidence-based interventions. I have actively contributed to projects in child language disorders (CLD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and dysphagia treatment. My work spans stuttering, articulation disorders, stroke rehabilitation, and AAC communication tools for individuals with complex needs. I have supported the development of a Down Syndrome training manual and have been involved in preparing evaluation materials for clinical use. I'm particularly interested in how neuro-affirming practices and Natural Language Acquisition methods can reshape outcomes for autistic individuals. My aim is to translate research into real-world therapy that enhances accessibility, caregiver support, and long-term client success across speech and language challenges.
02
Research Areas
I specialize in assessing and treating speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders across children and adults. My expertise includes therapy for autism, stuttering, tinnitus, voice disorders, and swallowing difficulties associated with neurological conditions and head and neck cancer. I am trained in Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), certified in PROMPT Level 1, and have completed training in Gestalt Language Processing and Neuro-Affirming Practices for Autism. I believe in delivering personalized, evidence-based therapy tailored to each individual’s unique communication goals. My focus is on empowering clients and their families while improving communication, participation, and overall quality of life through compassionate, holistic, and client-centered care.
03
Work Experience
Over the past seven years, I have worked in multiple clinical and research-based settings that have shaped my practice. I began my professional journey at All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) as a Research Officer. I have provided speech-language therapy at prestigious healthcare institutions such as Apollo Hospitals and Brain and Spine Hospital in Chennai, and Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru. My time at Swapna Therapy Centre further enriched my ability to serve diverse cases across age groups. These roles provided me with extensive exposure to interdisciplinary work, including collaborating with ENTs, neurologists, psychologists, and occupational therapists to ensure well-rounded, patient-focused care.