About Me
Meet Catherine Christianson, M.S., CCC-SLP
Meet Catherine Christianson, M.S., CCC-SLP
I'm Catherine Christianson, M.S., CCC-SLP, the speech-language pathologist behind SpeechbyCC. I am certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and licensed to practice in Massachusetts. More importantly, I'm someone who is passionate about speech-language therapy and helping people communicate with confidence. I believe that being able to express yourself and connect with others is a fundamental joy in life – and my goal is to help every client find that voice.
"People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
In other words, compassion and understanding are at the heart of my practice. I approach every client with genuine care, patience, and empathy.
I have a rich and varied background in the field of speech-language pathology. I earned my Master's in Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology) from Emerson College in Boston, and since then I've worked with individuals across the lifespan. My experience spans outpatient rehabilitation, schools, skilled nursing, and residential care settings.
For example, I honed my skills at a private residential school for children with special needs, at an outpatient rehabilitation hospital (helping teens and adults recovering from brain injuries and strokes), and at a skilled nursing facility (supporting older adults with swallowing and communication) – all before launching into my career as a certified SLP. I have also served in public schools, working with children from preschool through middle school on speech and language goals.
Private residential school for children with special needs and public schools
Helping teens and adults recovering from brain injuries and strokes
Supporting older adults with swallowing and communication challenges
These diverse experiences have shaped me into a well-rounded clinician who can adapt to each client's unique needs. Whether it's helping a child communicate in the classroom or an older adult regain speech after a stroke, I've learned that every person's journey is unique and requires a personalized approach.
Those who have worked with me often describe me as engaged, calm, knowledgeable, and collaborative.
One of my greatest strengths is the ability to build strong rapport with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I know that therapy is most effective when you feel heard, understood, and involved in the process. That's why I take a collaborative approach – I will listen to your story, learn about your goals, and together we'll tailor our therapy activities to things that are meaningful to you.
I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where you feel comfortable being yourself and making mistakes (because that's how we learn!). And we won't just work hard – we'll likely share a few laughs along the way.
Building connection with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Therapy works best when you feel heard and understood.
I listen to your story and goals, then tailor therapy activities to what's meaningful to you.
A supportive space where you feel comfortable being yourself and making mistakes—that's how we learn.
My therapy style is personable and conversational – we'll work as a team, and I'll coach you with encouragement every step of the journey.
My aim is not only to improve skills, but also to boost your confidence and make therapy an enjoyable, positive experience.
I'm not just a speech-language pathologist — I'm also a singer with a lifelong passion for vocal performance.
My background in classical singing, including time performing with organizations like the Boston Pops, gives me a deep, personal understanding of vocal health, projection, and technique.
Whether you're getting back on stage or just want to order a coffee without strain, I'm here to help you use your voice with confidence.
I hold the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from ASHA, which means I have met rigorous national standards in education, training, and expertise in speech-language pathology. I am also licensed in the state of Massachusetts (License #SLP100914). I am deeply committed to lifelong learning – you can often find me taking continuing education courses, reading the latest research, or practicing new therapy techniques.
In fact, I consider myself a bit of a cognition and neuroscience nerd! I love staying up-to-date so I can offer the best, evidence-based strategies to my clients. For instance, I pursued certification in the Parkinson Voice Project's SPEAK OUT! program, a specialized voice therapy approach for people with Parkinson's disease. (Parkinson's disease affects speech and voice in nearly 90% of those diagnosed, so this is an area I'm very passionate about.) I am proud to be a SPEAK OUT! Provider and enjoy helping individuals with Parkinson's maintain a strong voice. I am also continually expanding my skills in other areas—from dysphagia management to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)—so that I can serve a wide range of needs.
I believe the best clinicians never stop learning.
Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to work alongside and learn from highly skilled mentors who have shaped the way I practice. I'm deeply grateful to the mentors — past and present — who continue to challenge me, teach me, and inspire me to grow.
What truly motivates me every day is seeing my clients succeed. There is nothing more rewarding to me than helping someone regain a skill they feared was lost – whether it's a grandfather saying his grandchild's name clearly after a stroke, or a young adult finally speaking up confidently in a work meeting. I cherish those "lightbulb moments" and victories (big and small) that make a real difference in someone's daily life.
I also understand that the journey to better communication can be challenging, so I believe in celebrating progress, practicing patience, and even finding moments to smile or laugh. Some chapters in life can be really tough, but I'm a firm believer that we're here to help one another and do our best each day.
All true facts except one:
I'm a black belt in Tae Kwon Do
I've sung at TD Garden
I used to work as a chef in a French restaurant
I love pickles, olives, and anything salty
Traffic is my favorite place to be
Only one of those is false. I'll let you guess which. 😉
I work hard because I believe in living well — and I want the same for every client I support. Whether I'm targeting speech, language, memory, or voice, the bigger picture is always quality of life.
Thriving isn't a luxury. It's the baseline.
Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about me. I look forward to the possibility of working with you and supporting you on your communication journey!
I look forward to the possibility of supporting you on your communication journey!