EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science and interdisciplinary Studies – Texas A&M-CC
Major: Early Childhood Education

Pre-Master’s Leveling Program- Texas Woman’s University
Major: Speech Language Pathology

Master of Science – Texas A&M-Kingsville
Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders

CERTIFICATIONS:

American Speech and Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence
License #14091994
Texas State License in Speech Language Pathology
License #110735

PROFESSIONAL:

Jackie Heath was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. She graduated from King High School and attended college at Texas A&M – Corpus Christi. She graduated with a teaching degree and following graduation Jackie moved to Houston, Texas and taught first grade. She loved teaching first grade; teaching reading and language were her favorite moments of the day. Empowering young minds with the gift of literacy was incredible. When her daughter was born she took a break from teaching to stay at home. She moved back to Corpus Christi after a few years and gave birth to her son. While teaching her own children to sign and talk she became passionate about the field of Speech Language Pathology. This sparked her decision to go back to school and pursue a Master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She completed clinical internships with Texas A&M Kingsville Speech & Hearing Clinic, CCISD, and Spohn South Hospital (rehabilitation facility and in-hospital care). She joined the staff at Pediatric Therapy Associates in September of 2014. She cares for each child she meets like they are one of her own.

PERSONAL:

Jackie enjoys traveling with her family and friends. She likes staying active by running, snow skiing, and paddle boarding. You can find her most weekends enjoying the sun or doing home improvement projects!

EDUCATION:

Master’s of Science in Education – Old Dominion University
Major: Speech-Language Pathology

CERTIFICATIONS:

American Speech and Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence
License #01089663

Texas State License in Speech-Pathology
License #18310

PROFESSIONAL:

Terri brings 25 years of experience with children to her current position.  She is a member of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and the Texas Speech-Language Hearing Association and licensed to practice in the State of Texas.  Before joining Pediatric Therapy Associates, she served as a staff speech-language pathologist in the Portsmouth Public School District for 2 years and the Corpus Christi Independent School district for 13 years and as the Lead Speech-Language pathologist in the Corpus Christi Independent School District for 4 years.

Terri’s move to this practice was prompted by a need to work in a more direct and personal way with children and their families.  She enjoys watching the growth of speech and language skills and the positive impact that has on children and their families.  She also enjoys helping families learn and implement techniques to better communicate with their children.

Terri brings experience in working with disorders of articulation, phonology, language, and stuttering.  She understands how to develop and use alternative augmentative communication from simple to complex systems.  She understands the importance of working with families to bring about the highest level of carryover for a positive impact with communication.

PERSONAL:

Terri is a dedicated member of this community and blessed to serve our children and their families.She enjoys travelling, cooking, working out, and spending time with family and friends.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders – The University of Texas at Austin

Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences – The University of Texas at Austin

CERTIFICATION:

American Speech and Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence (License #14434736)

Texas State License in Speech-Language Pathology (License #118146)

The University of Texas at Austin Multicultural Certificate 

PROFESSIONAL:

Amanda Smithwick, M.S., CCC/SLP graduated from Orange Grove High School and moved to Austin, Texas in order to complete her undergraduate and graduate studies at The University of Texas (Hook ‘Em!). She has always felt passionate about returning to South Texas to serve the community that is her “Home”! During her university studies, Amanda completed clinical internships and externships at The Michael and Tami Lang Stuttering Institute, The University of Texas Speech and Hearing Center, The University of Texas Elementary Charter School, Cypress Elementary in Leander Independent School District, as well as Christus Spohn Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas. She received specialized training in the area of stuttering, as well as presented research investigating the effects of self-advocacy on children who stutter. Amanda joined the staff at Pediatric Therapy Associates in May 2021 and has greatly enjoyed serving a diverse population of children with speech and language disorders, ranging in age from six months to eighteen years old. Amanda loves her patients and their families, and she works diligently to encourage functional communication inside and outside of the therapy room. 

PERSONAL:

When Amanda is not playing the role of speech-language pathologist, you can often find her crafting, volunteering at her church, or spending time with her family!

area, and she is excited to serve the community that she has always called “Home”!

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science in Speech Language Pathology

Texas Christian University

Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology 

Steinhardt School of Education, New York University

CERTIFICATIONS:

American Speech and Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence

License # 12042413

Texas State License in Speech Language Pathology

License # 101321

PROFESSIONAL: 

Chrisi was first introduced to the world of Speech Language Pathology in 1994 by her younger sister, Clare Judith, who was diagnosed with Trisomy 18.  Clare was soon transferred to Driscoll Children’s Hospital NICU after her birth and remained there for several months. On Christmas Eve, her siblings were allowed into the NICU to visit her.  Clare was treated by a speech-language-pathologist to work on her ability to bottle feed.  To help the tiniest of creatures be able to do the most basic of life sustaining tasks had to be an amazing way to dedicate one’s life’s work. The seed was planted. In the midst of a college career that began with Musical Theatre and Ballet, Chrisi found herself in the Speech Language Pathology program at TCU and on to graduate school at NYU. While studying in NYC, Chrisi enjoyed the varying clinical experiences she gained. After working at Manhattan Eye Ear and Throat Hospital, Brooklyn Hospital Center and Milestone School for Child Development, Chrisi returned to Corpus Christi, Texas to join the rehab team at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. While at Driscoll, Chrisi served on the Craniofacial team and particularly devoted herself to working with children with cleft lip and palate, vocal cord dysfunction and other voice disorders.  Chrisi has enjoyed opportunities to continue her education at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, New York Langone Medical Center, Vanderbilt Voice Center, Johns Hopkins Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Center, and University of Texas Voice Center in San Antonio.  Chrisi appreciates the opportunity to help each of the patients and families that she serves, and is thankful to be part of the amazing team at PTA!

PERSONAL: 

Chrisi grew up in Portland, Texas and attended Gregory Portland High School.  From a very early age Chrisi was active in the arts community here in the Coastal Bend beginning her ballet studies with the Roquemores and then Nancy Sulik, and finding her place in the musical theatre community at the Harbor Playhouse at the age of 7.  She studied drama with Charlotte Brown at GP and went to state and national competitions throughout her high school career. Chrisi began choreographing the Corpus Christi Cathedral Concert Series’ Holiday Spectacular at the age of 15 and continued to both choreograph and perform in the production as a singer and dancer for a 22 year run.  While attending TCU, Chrisi was invited to be the vocalist for TCU Jazz and toured Europe with them, performing at both the Montreux and Vienna Jazz Festivals. Chrisi performed in productions at both TCU and NYU and gained her Actor’s Equity status with a Broadway Tours! production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! Upon her return from New York, Chrisi began her work as a pediatric speech-language pathologist at Driscoll Children’s Hospital and was soon invited by the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra to create two original works for the children of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rehabilitation to be performed onstage with the CCSO on their holiday concert. The two pieces were repeated annually at the hospital and came to be known as the Holiday Spectacular which ultimately enjoyed an 18-year run and grew to include numerous original works to feature the children along with artists from the community.  Chrisi was co-founder of Sparkling City Light Opera Company, has taught ballet and theatre for a number of organizations and workshops, has performed numerous roles with the Harbor Playhouse, has performed regionally as a guest artist, was Resident Artist with the Corpus Christi Concert Ballet from 2007-2018 and since 2018 has been Principal Artist with the Corpus Christi Ballet.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Arts – Temple University

Major: Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

Minor: Public Health

Master of Arts – Temple University

Major: Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

CERTIFICATIONS:

American Speech and Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence 

License #14286606

Texas State License in Speech Language Pathology

License #119391

PROFESSIONAL:

Erin Foley was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She attended Temple University and earned her Master’s in Arts in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences.  Erin has worked in several different settings, including a school, skilled nursing facility, and outpatient pediatric clinic. Erin has experience working with children with language delays and disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She enjoys watching the growth of speech and language skills in the children she works with as well as teaching techniques to families to help them foster better communication with their children. 

PERSONAL:

Erin enjoys traveling, getting outdoors, and adventurous eating. She likes to stay active, so on the weekends you can find her at the gym, walking on the beach, or going for a boat ride!

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders – The University of Texas at Austin

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology  – The University of North Texas

CERTIFICATIONS:

American Speech and Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence

License #14522867

Texas State License in Speech-Language Pathology

License # 122545

ADDITIONAL TRAININGS:

• AEIOU: An Integrated Approach to Pediatric Feeding
• Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol (K-SLP)

PROFESSIONAL:

Emily is from Frankston, Texas (a small town in East Texas) and graduated from Frankston High School. She attended The University of Texas for her bachelors and after switching her major 4 times, she finally settled on communication sciences and disorders and never looked back! During her university studies, Emily gained experience working with both adult and pediatric populations in the school setting, post-acute medical setting, and private practice setting via student externships. She studied American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture during her undergraduate, and served as an ASL teaching assistant for two years in graduate school. 

Emily graduated from the University of North Texas with her masters, and moved to Corpus for a change of scenery. Emily has been at PTA since 2024 and has loved getting to know the South Texas area! Emily enjoys working with children in the areas of articulation and phonological disorders, language disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and sensory feeding disorders!

PERSONAL:

In her free time, Emily enjoys baking, exploring South Texas, cheering on the Texas Longhorns (Hook ‘Em!), and spending time with her cat, Mabel.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Arts  in Communication Sciences and Disorders – Louisiana State University

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology – Texas A&M University–Kingsville

CERTIFICATIONS:

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP)

California State License in Speech-Language Pathology

Texas State License in Speech-Language Pathology

PROFESSIONAL:

Monica Viloria, M.S., CCC-SLP, graduated from Louisiana State University and earned her master’s degree from Texas A&M University–Kingsville in 2022. She began her career in San Diego, California, where she gained experience in private practice, home-based therapy, teletherapy, and preschool settings, working with clients from infancy through adulthood.

Her clinical experience includes supporting children in early intervention, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, speech sound disorders, fluency disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, orofacial myofunctional disorders, and those who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Monica is a Natural Language Acquisition (NLA)–trained, child-led therapist who specializes in gestalt language processing.

After relocating to Corpus Christi with her husband’s military service, Monica is excited to bring her experience and passion for speech-language therapy to the local community.

PERSONAL:

When Monica is not in the therapy room, she enjoys playing with her dog, practicing Pilates, and spending time on the golf course.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science—Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Major: Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Master of Science—Pennsylvania Western University Clarion

Major: Speech-Language Pathology

CERTIFICATIONS:

American Speech and Hearing Association Certification of Clinical Competence

License #14446187

Texas State License in Speech Language Pathology

License #122963

PROFESSIONAL:

Katie Lore was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Pennsylvania Western University Clarion. Throughout her career, Katie has worked with both children and adults in a variety of settings, including rehabilitation hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and clinics. She completed her Clinical Fellowship at Pediatric Therapy Associates, where her passion for working with children truly flourished. Katie is especially interested in areas like Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Gestalt Language Processing, early language development, and phonological intervention. Helping kids build their speech and language skills is at the heart of what she loves to do.

PERSONAL:

Katie grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and made the big move to Kingsville, Texas. Since then, she has fully embraced the South Texas culture and way of life. In her free time, Katie enjoys staying active—whether it’s going to the gym, hiking, dancing, or simply spending time outdoors. She’s passionate about faith and community and loves attending church and connecting with her Life Group friends. Katie also values time with her family and friends as well as her boyfriend, with whom she shares a love for traveling and discovering new places together.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders – Texas A&M University–Kingsville

CERTIFICATIONS:

Texas State License in Speech-Language Pathology

PROFESSIONAL:

Alexis Espinoza earned her master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Texas A&M University–Kingsville in May 2025, where she developed strong clinical foundations and lasting professional relationships. During her graduate studies, she also studied abroad in Puerto Rico, gaining insight into communication disorders across diverse cultural backgrounds.

Her clinical experience includes providing therapy in a variety of pediatric settings, such as private practice and university clinics, daycare centers, and school-based environments. Working in these settings has given her experience supporting children with diverse communication needs, including early language development, speech sound disorders, fluency disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Alexis is passionate about helping children build confidence and work toward their communication goals. She uses evidence-based practice in every session and works closely with parents to support steady, meaningful progress.

PERSONAL:

Outside of the clinic, she enjoys going to the movies, attending concerts, and spending time with her two dachshunds.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with minor in Psychology – Texas A&M University–Kingsville

Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders – Texas A&M University–Kingsville

CERTIFICATIONS:

Texas State License in Speech-Language Pathology

PROFESSIONAL:

Arianna’s clinical experience includes providing therapy across multiple pediatric settings, including private practices, daycare centers, public schools, and university clinics. Through these diverse environments, Arianna has developed strong clinical skills in working with a wide range of communication disorders such as early language development delays, fluency disorders, speech sound disorders, childhood apraxia of speech, and the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Arianna loves working with the pediatric population and their families. She is passionate about creating a supportive, positive, and engaging therapy environment that is fun for the children while also targeting their speech goals. She aims to build strong relationships with each child and their families, ensuring that therapy feels encouraging, collaborative, and exciting!

PERSONAL:

Arianna Neri was born in Houston, Texas and raised in Bishop, Texas. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and puppy (Pickle). She likes to read, do puzzles and go to the movies in her free time. You can find her most weekends visiting friends, family or relaxing at home doing fun projects!

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders – Texas A&M University–Kingsville

Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders – Texas A&M University–Kingsville

CERTIFICATIONS:

Texas State License in Speech-Language Pathology-Intern

PROFESSIONAL:

Olivia Fatima Peralez is a Speech-Language Pathologist Clinical Fellow dedicated to supporting children and families through compassionate, evidence-based care. Originally from Robstown, Texas, Olivia earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and went on to complete her master’s degree at Texas A&M University–Kingsville.

Olivia specializes in speech and language development and is passionate about creating meaningful, engaging therapy experiences that empower children to communicate with confidence. She strives to help others by providing the tools, strategies, and support they need to grow—and believes every child deserves the opportunity to find and express their voice. Her goal is to build strong connections, celebrate progress, and make a lasting impact on the lives of the children and families she serves.

PERSONAL:

Outside of her professional work, Olivia enjoys baking, watching movies, and spending quality time with her family. She values the warmth and connection these moments bring, and carries that same spirit into the care she provides as an SLP.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor in Business Administration, Corpus Christi State University-Corpus Christi

Associates in Applied Science: Culinary Arts, Del Mar College-Corpus Christi

PROFESSIONAL:   

Patti joined PTA in October 2013

•Patti works diligently in keeping the Speech Therapy offices organized and productive.

•Her previous work experience in real estate, property management and teaching provides varied management skills.

PERSONAL: 

Patti enjoys many outdoor activities including: gardening, swimming, walking and night sky watching. She loves traveling and enjoys sharing her adventures as well as tips on “best” places to stay and most importantly “where” to eat. Her love of art is evident by the ever changing art pieces throughout the lobby and offices.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Business Administration – Texas A&M Corpus Christi

Major: Accounting with Honors

PROFESSIONAL:

Betty has had a very rewarding career in healthcare.

Business Manager for the department of Medical Education at Driscoll Children’s Hospital and CPSST, a group of specialty teaching physicians (3 years).

Chief Financial Officer for South Texas Retina Consultants (24 years).

Betty came to work for PTA-Speech after retirement from STRC to work with her daughter, Jackie in 2020. She does the accounting and assists in the front and back office as needed.

PERSONAL:

Betty sings in the choir at St. Pius Catholic Church, is involved in Journey to Damascus, and bible study with her church. She loves to read, sew, kayak, sail and spend time with her family and friends.

EDUCATION:

Associates of Applied Science, Health Information Technology – Currently enrolled -Del Mar College, Corpus Christi, TX

Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Certificate – August 2016 -Southern Careers Institute of Texas, Corpus Christi, TX

High School Diploma – June 2015- Richard King High School, Corpus Christi, TX

CERTIFICATIONS:

Certified Professional Coder (CPC) – Expected June 2026 -American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)

Certified Professional Biller (CPB) – Expected December 2025 -American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)

Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (MBCS) – December 2016 -National Healthcare Association

PROFESSIONAL:

Ashley joined Pediatric Therapy Associates – Speech in October 2022 as the Billing Office Manager. With over 10 years of experience in medical billing and coding across various medical specialties, including cardiology and ophthalmology (retina), she brings a wealth of knowledge in navigating the intricacies of insurance, claims management, and complex billing regulations. She oversees all billing office procedures to ensure the efficient operation of the entire revenue cycle management system. Ashley’s unwavering commitment to accuracy and efficiency ensures a smooth and stress-free experience for our patients and their families. She is dedicated to providing clear, compassionate, and effective support, helping families understand their billing so they can fully focus on their child’s progress.

PERSONAL:

A native of Corpus Christi, Texas, Ashley graduated from Richard King High School in 2015.  She is currently enrolled at Del Mar College to obtain her associate’s degree in Health Information Technology while also studying for her dual certifications as a certified medical coder and biller (CPC/CPB) through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

Ashley recently became a mom to a beautiful baby girl, Auden, in November 2024. When she isn’t wrangling CPT codes and deciphering insurance jargon; she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, visiting local coffee shops, and taking her daughter and dog on walks to local parks.