Hi Irina! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I was originally born in Ukraine, and my family and I moved to the United States in 1995. Originally, my parents moved to Brooklyn, NY and eventually we moved to Fort Lee, NJ when I was in 6th grade. I graduated from the Fort Lee Public Schools. I have recently moved back to Bergen County after spending 12 years living in Los Angeles. We now reside in Saddle Brook and have been there 2 years.
How old are your kids?
I have two children, Zach, age 4, and Isabelle (Izzy) 18 months.
What is your favorite thing to do with them?
Spending quality time with them. Reading books and playing together and just seeing them smile.
Are you involved in a business venture? Please share!
I have recently opened my own private practice, which is a mobile speech therapy practice providing pediatric speech therapy services.
Why is this so important?
I found that bridging the gap between what goes on during therapy and what the child experiences the rest of the time (e.g., in their daycare, babysitters, with parents etc) was lacking. We cannot expect our clients to generalize their skills if their communication partners in their environment don’t know how to support them. This was the foundation that the business was built upon.
What sets you apart?
What sets me apart, is that I am me. There are many phenomenal speech therapy practices in our area, both mobile and brick and mortar. We all provide similar services but what sets us all apart is the individuals that work there. Building connections with clients and their families truly is such a huge part of the progress our kids make, although we can all learn the same material, and apply it the same, the true difference is none of us are the same person. Our individuality is truly what makes us unique.
If you could give one tip to fellow moms, what would it be?
I would say that Moms are truly superheroes, and not to second guess yourself if there is a new endeavor you want to start. Even if it feels scary or uncomfortable, you are more than able to do anything you set your mind to.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Mixing Play-Doh colors is one of my biggest pet peeves … which you can imagine is inevitable when you have young children.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
I have been able to connect with so many wonderful people since beginning my private practice journey, and they have been so instrumental in getting my name out there. It’s truly amazing what can be accomplished when community members work together.
To learn more about Speech Sparks Therapy Services visit their Website and follow them on Instagram.