Los Angeles SLPA Spotlight: Ms. Sophia Torres

We are continuing our “SLPA Spotlight” month to celebrate our incredible team of bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist Assistants (SLPA’s) at Sunny Spot Speech and Language Therapy Inc.! Our state-licensed SLPA’s help us to provide in-home pediatric speech therapy services for our growing Spanish and English-speaking clientele throughout Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley.

SLPA’s play a vital role in providing speech and language therapy services by helping patients with exercises and drills to improve their speech and language skills and improve their communication skills to achieve their maximum potential. 

We’ve asked “Ms. Sophia” (aka “Maestra Sophia”), one of our bilingual Spanish and English speaking SLPA’s, some questions that families (and more importantly, children) may have, as they are getting to know (and love) Sophia:

Ms. Sophia Torres / "Maestra Sophia" – Q&A

Questions often asked by parents & caregivers:

Q: What languages do you speak?

I am bilingual and speak both English and Spanish languages.

Q: How many years have you worked with children?

I have worked with children for 7 years and have done a bit of everything – starting as babysitter and working at after-school programs, to becoming a Speech Language Pathology Assistant!

Q: What made you decide to become a SLPA?

I’ve always wanted to work in a field where I could help others, especially children. As a SLPA, we have the opportunity to work with a wide range of people, from children to adults, but it’s the youngest children who really inspire me! Being a SLPA has given me the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of the children and families I work with, and that’s what makes this career so rewarding.

Q: Are there any specific area(s) of speech therapy that you love?

I absolutely love early intervention speech therapy! It’s so rewarding to watch little ones grow in their abilities to express themselves—whether it’s through words, gestures, or even just a big smile. Seeing their progress is what makes this work so special to me.

Q: Can you briefly describe what one of your typical speech therapy sessions looks like?

My sessions are very play-based and child-led, tailored to each child’s needs and interests. With the little ones, I love incorporating singing, books, and familiar routines to support their language goals. I also use toys, like vehicles, animals, and sensory activities, to encourage conversation, turn-taking, and engagement. Most importantly, I make sure sessions feel fun and natural so that learning happens in a way that feels like play!

QUESTIONS ASKED BY KIDS/FOR KIDS:

Q: What’s your Favorite Kid’s Game?

Connect 4!  – It’s simple, fun, and has just the right amount of competition.

Q: Favorite Children’s Movie?

Disney’s The Lion King – I could rewatch it over and over and it never gets old!

Q: Favorite hobbies/past-times?

When I’m not working you’ll probably find me thrifting, checking out new coffee shops, and spending time with my favorite people and pets (my dog, Mango!)

Q: Favorite speech therapy activities for younger children:

Bubbles - they never get old! I also love incorporating interactive books, animal and vehicle toys, blocks, and balloons to keep therapy sessions fun and engaging.

Q: Favorite speech therapy activity for older children:

Pop the Pig is always a hit! I love using it as a fun, motivating way to target each child’s specific goals while also keeping them engaged in a fun turn-taking game.

Q: What is your favorite children’s book?

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?  This book is a classic, and the kids love it! I love how repetitive it is and use it as a tool for learning early language concepts like animals, colors, and sequencing. If you get the larger version with slide tabs, it’s even better—children love opening and closing them, which adds an extra interactive element and more language opportunities.

Q:  What do you like best about working with Sunny Spot Speech and Language Therapy Inc.?

The best part of working with Sunny Spot Speech is the amazing support from our supervisors and speech team! Lauren and Claudia are always there to guide and encourage me, which makes such a difference. I love being part of a team that’s so dedicated and collaborative, always working together to create the best experience for each child. I’ve also been incredibly lucky to work with such wonderful families—seeing a child make progress and gain confidence in their communication is the most rewarding feeling!

 Los Angeles SLPA JOB Opportunities:

Are you a California SLPA seeking a part or full-time job opportunity to provide in-home speech and language therapy services for the pediatric population (0-3 years) throughout Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley? Click here for more information on our competitive SLPA benefits and hourly rates!

ABOUT SUNNY SPOT SPEECH:

We provide private speech therapy for kids in home, online, at your child's preschool, daycare, private school, or at another community location throughout Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley. Locations include:  Granada Hills, Encino, Tarzana, Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills, Studio City, San Fernando, Valley Village, Burbank, Northridge, Calabasas.

If you are seeking ways to better support your child’s communication and speech and language skills at home, please contact us for a free phone consultation or email us for more information:

Phone: 818-350-3107 

Email: info@sunnyspotspeech.com