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ABOUT SPARK PEDIATRIC THERAPY

Sparking Confidence & Communication in Every Child

Kristen Fernandez, Speech Language Pathologist and speech therapist, in the Greater New Orleans Area

Who We Are

Founded in Northern Virginia in 2023, Spark Pediatric Therapy was built on the belief that therapy should feel like play—not pressure. We prioritize child-led, neurodiversity-affirming care that helps kids feel confident, capable, and in control of their own growth.

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Now, we’re bringing that same heart-led approach to New Orleans. 

Opening in August 2025, Spark is proud to serve families across the Greater New Orleans area with expert, accessible therapy that meets children where they are—at home, in school, or in the community.

Individualized Care

We believe in tailoring therapy sessions to meet the unique needs of each child, ensuring personalized care and support.

Neurodiversity-Affirming

We embrace a neurodiversity-affirming approach, combining evidence-based techniques with respect for diverse communication styles and ways of thinking.

Family Engagement

We prioritize building strong relationships with families and actively involve parents and caregivers in the therapy process, recognizing the importance of their participation and support.

Empowerment & Confidence

Our ultimate goal is to spark confidence and communication in every child, empowering them to reach their maximum potential.

About The Founder

Kristen Fernandez, MCD, CCC-SLP
Owner & Speech-Language Pathologist

Kristen Fernandez earned her bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and her Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology from LSU Health New Orleans. She is a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and a two-time recipient of the ASHA Award for Continuing Education (ACE).​

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​Spark Pediatric Therapy was born from Kristen's passion for forming meaningful therapeutic connections rooted in empathy and acceptance. She is committed to understanding each child and family on a deep level, developing personalized therapy plans that align with their unique goals and values. Her neurodiversity-affirming approach blends engaging, play-based activities with evidence-based treatments and parent education. As a mother of three, Kristen is dedicated to ensuring that every child receives the care and opportunities they need to thrive.

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​Kristen has extensive training in advanced therapeutic approaches, including PROMPTs for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets (PROMPT), DIRFloortime® (DIR-Basic), Natural Language Acquisition (NLA), Myofunctional Therapy, and TOTS: Tethered Oral Tissues Specialty Training®. She is also a Feed the Peds®-trained clinician, specializing in pediatric feeding challenges.

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Outside of work,  Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband, son, twin daughters, and their 90-pound dog. She loves reading, traveling, and outdoor adventures.

Kristen Fernandez, Speech Language Pathologist and speech therapist, in the Greater New Orleans Area

Advanced Trainings & Certifications

  • ASHA Certified Speech-Language Pathologist

  • Two-Time Recipient of the ASHA Award for Continuing Education (ACE)

  • PROMPTs for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets (PROMPT)

  • DIRFloortime® Certified (DIR-Basic)

  • Feed the Peds®

  • Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) Trained Clinician

  • Myofunctional Therapy Training

  • TOTS: Tethered Oral Tissues Specialty Training®

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