In this insightful conversation, Hallie Bulkin sits down with Emily Hussey, M.S., CCC-SLP/L, CLC, founder of Eats and Speaks, to explore the dynamic world of pediatric feeding therapy. Emily shares her journey from speech-language pathology to pediatric feeding, highlighting the importance of early oral health, parent education, and individualized care for every child.
They unpack the realities of working with families, the need for collaboration among professionals, and how early intervention can shape lifelong health outcomes. Emily also discusses the challenges of running a private practice, from navigating insurance complexities to building a supportive, mission-driven team.
Throughout the episode, Hallie and Emily emphasize that feeding therapy is about more than just food - it’s about connection, confidence, and care.
✔️ Why Emily pivoted from speech therapy to pediatric feeding therapy.
✔️ The role of early intervention in preventing long-term feeding issues.
✔️ How parent education supports children’s feeding and oral development.
✔️ Why every child requires an individualized, flexible care approach.
✔️ The impact of “all-or-nothing” thinking on therapeutic outcomes.
✔️ How teamwork enhances care in feeding and myofunctional therapy.
✔️ What it takes to build and sustain a successful private practice.
✔️ How insurance challenges affect accessibility to therapy services.
✔️ Why community and peer support are vital for therapists and families alike.
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• Learn more about Emily’s work: https://www.eatsandspeaks.com/
🍼 Ready to deep-dive into tethered oral tissues? Check out Tongue Tie Bootcamp