Hello! My name is Melissa Gies, and I’m proud to be a Speech-Language Pathologists at Integrated Speech & Behavior (IS&B). Originally from Virginia, I earned my Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Old Dominion University in 2019. Over the past six years, I’ve worked in school-based settings, supporting a wide range of pediatric communication needs. These experiences shaped my appreciation for collaborative care, strengthened my advocacy skills, and deepened my belief in the power of connection through communication.

While I valued my time in the schools, I was drawn to a more specialized clinical setting—one where I could focus more intentionally on children with complex communication needs. That calling led me to IS&B, where I now work exclusively with children who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to express themselves functionally. My goal is to help each child feel seen, heard, and understood in ways that are meaningful and affirming to them.

I approach my work through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, incorporating principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to guide ethical, evidence-based interventions. I’m passionate about making communication accessible, functional, and impactful in each child’s everyday life.

I’m grateful to be part of the IS&B team and look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and support the incredible clients we serve.