Nazla Poonthala is a dedicated pediatric Speech and Language Therapist with over a decade of experience in supporting children with developmental challenges. She holds a Master of Health Science in Clinical Child Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology from the National Institute of Speech and Hearing in India, where she graduated in 2012.
Nazla’s expertise spans a wide range of developmental and communication challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Apraxia, Down Syndrome, ADHD, Feeding Difficulties, Social Communication Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Speech Sound Disorders, Stuttering, Voice Disorders, and Hearing Impairment. She is certified in Oral Placement Therapy (OPT) Level 2, neurodiversity-affirming practices, and the NLA framework for Gestalt language processors. She is also trained in using sensory strategies into speech therapy, enhancing her approach to supporting children with diverse needs. Additionally, she is a certified AVAZ AAC professional and is qualified to administer LSVT LOUD therapy.
Since beginning her career in the Emirates in 2017, Nazla has cultivated a child-led, play-based approach to therapy, integrating sensory-based speech therapy sessions to engage children effectively. Her work emphasizes building trust and connection, fostering an environment where children feel safe to explore and grow. She works closely with parents, empowering them to support their child’s communication journey and reinforcing the confidence needed to continue interventions at home.
Nazla’s multilingual proficiency in English, intermediate Arabic, and Malayalam allows her to communicate effectively with families from diverse backgrounds. This aligns seamlessly with TDCC’s inclusive and multicultural ethos. Her approach prioritizes creating individualized therapy plans, addressing not only speech and language challenges but also nurturing social, emotional, and cognitive development in alignment with TDCC’s Early Intervention Program goals.
At The Developing Child Centre, Nazla exemplifies the mission of fostering growth and inclusion for children with learning difficulties, contributing her extensive expertise and passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families.
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