Meet our Amazing CFT Team
Courtney CEO/SLP
Courtney M.S. CCC-SLP, joined Central Florida Therapy in July 2023 as the Chief Executive Officer, bringing over 25 years of experience in the school and private settings. With a strong educational background from UCF (Bachelor's) and Nova Southeastern University (Master's), Courtney is a visionary leader committed to delivering the highest standards of care for children and families. She specializes in diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders, with a particular focus on adolescent language. Courtney is passionate about creating nurturing environments and personalized therapy plans. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family—her children Ellena, Joe, Colton, and Chloe, fiancé Jamie, and their dog Churro. In her free time, she enjoys biking, reading, spending time at the beach, and crafting.
Elizabeth OTR/L Clinical Director
Elizabeth OTR/L, has been an invaluable member of Central Florida Therapy since July 2017, combining her extensive knowledge and compassion to help children overcome challenges and thrive. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Puget Sound and a Master of Education in Early Childhood from Capella University. Certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), Elizabeth specializes in ocular motor skills, feeding therapy, manual skills, and handwriting. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Kevin, an ESE teacher, and their two children, Abigail and Eric, while hiking, camping, playing games, and reading
Kari Office Manager
Kari is a dedicated and skilled Office Manager at Central Florida Therapy, where she has worked since June 2021. With an Associates in Arts degree and teacher certifications in Early Childhood, Kari ensures the smooth operation of the office and the continuous care of clients by handling behind-the-scenes tasks. She works closely with therapists, collaborating, problem-solving, and offering support, while demonstrating strong communication, attention to detail, and multitasking abilities. Known for her welcoming attitude and empathy, Kari helps staff, families, and clients feel respected and valued. A caring wife and mother of two sons, Kyle and Nick, Kari enjoys baking, going to the beach, and spending time with family and friends. She is a crucial asset to CFT, maintaining the efficient flow of daily operations.
Mia Speech-Language Assistant
Hometown: Cape Canaveral
Educational Background: Associate of Arts & Bachelor’s of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders Currently in Graduate School at St. Augustine University
Areas of Specialty: I have a lot of experience with Apraxia of Speech and growing experience with Gestalt Language Processing.
Family information: I have 5 siblings and a huge family including 7+ cousins!
Hobbies: Cooking, Baking, and visiting record stores/going to concerts!
Fun Fact(s): I grew up as a classically trained musician and can play over 9 instruments.
Personal quote about what you enjoy about your job/ working at CFT: I love helping people build confidence with their speech and language. I also love being part of children’s lives as they’re growing up and seeing how many amazing things they achieve!
Gwen Speech-Language Assistant
Gwen BS, SLPA, is a dedicated Speech Language Pathologist-Assistant who joined Central Florida Therapy in August 2024. Originally from Havana, Cuba, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Psychology from the University of Central Florida (UCF). Certified as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and Speech Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA), Gwen is fluent in Spanish and specializes in bilingual speech therapy. Her areas of interest include Autism Spectrum Disorder, behavior, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), articulation, and aphasia, particularly focusing on supporting individuals with autism and behavior-related challenges. Outside of work, Gwen enjoys reading, video games, traveling, and spending time with her Shih Tzu, Toby and husband.
Elizabeth Physical Therapy Assistant
Elizabeth PTA, is a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant and key member of the office staff at Central Florida Therapy, where she has worked since 2013. In addition to her clinical duties, she contributes to the smooth operation of the practice by assisting with administrative tasks and ensuring compliance. Elizabeth graduated high school in just three years and earned her Associate of Science degree from Seminole State College in 2000, where she received academic excellence awards and was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Specializing in pediatric physical therapy, Elizabeth integrates her passion for ballet into her practice, holding certifications as an American Ballet TheatreⓇ Certified Affiliate Teacher and in Progressing Ballet TechniqueⓇ (PBT). She has also pioneered using dance in therapy for children with special needs. Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her husband, Kevin, and their two adopted sons, Rafe and Simon.
Zishan Speech-Language Pathologist
Educational Background: Masters in Communication Disorders
Areas of Interest/specialty: Phonological Processes
Married with 2 children (18 & 16 yrs)
Hobbies: Interior decor/organization & Reading
Fun Fact(s): Grew up in Tanzania, E. Africa, can speak 3 languages (swahili, indian, English), love international travel.
Personal quote about what you enjoy about your job/ working at CFT:
- Enjoy being able to give a ‘voice’ to those who can’t communicate, especially with little ones.
Favorite resources (websites/ instagram accounts to follow, etc.) for caregiver tips/ strategies:
- ‘Ms. Rachel’ for the young kids.
- https://www.talkitrockit.com/ (resources on early intervention)
- For older kids, usually find resources specific to the need
Brittany Speech-Language Pathologist
Brittany M.S., CCC-SLP, is an experienced and dedicated speech-language pathologist with 17 years of experience in school and clinical settings. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University. Licensed in Florida and certified by ASHA, Brittany has been part of the CFT team since August 2017 and is an active member of ASHA’s Special Interest Groups for articulation, phonological disorders, and preschool language acquisition. A Sanford, Florida native, she is married with boy/girl twins and a French bulldog named Cash. In her free time, she enjoys boating, the beach, and spending time with family and friends.
Jessica Administrative Assistant
Jessica joined Central Florida Therapy in July 2026, as a member of the office support team.
She assists with patient check-ins and helps keep the office running smoothly so our therapists can deliver the best care possible.
Jessica earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Development from UCF. With over ten years of experience working with children of all ages, she is dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive environment for every child and their family, to help make each visit a positive experience.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, relaxing at the beach, and reading.
Benita Speech-Language Pathologist
Benita M.S., CCC-SLP, is an experienced speech-language pathologist with 12 years of experience across school, clinical, and hospital settings. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from UCF and a Master’s from Florida State University. A licensed SLP in Florida and ASHA-certified, Benita joined CFT in January 2024. She has completed ASL I-IV training and enjoys working with middle and high school students on language and articulation, particularly with the challenging "r" sound. She aims to specialize in voice work, particularly with singers facing voice disorders. Born in Panama City, FL, and raised in Corpus Christi, TX, and Sanford, FL, Benita recently celebrated her 11th wedding anniversary with her husband, Eric, and they share a dog named Luna. In her free time, she enjoys singing, dancing, reading, and spending time with family and friends
Kelli Lead Speech-Language Pathologist
Kelli M.S., CCC-SLP, is a seasoned speech-language pathologist with 30 years of experience in schools, outpatient rehabilitation centers, and hospitals across Florida, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. She holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Communication Science Disorders from Florida State, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from UCF, and certifications in SLP, Educational Leadership, and Florida Department of Education K-12 ESE. Kelli rejoined Central Florida Therapy in August 2024 after previously working with the team from 2013 to 2016. She specializes in early language development and oral motor feeding challenges, and is a member of ASHA’s Leadership Development Program and Special Interest Group for Language Learning and Education. Born and raised in Hollywood, FL, Kelli has been married for 30 years, has three adult children, and is a proud golden retriever mom. In her free time, she enjoys pilates, swimming, biking, crafting, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Melanie Speech-Language Assistant
Melanie B.S., SLPA, is a dedicated bilingual Speech-Language Pathology Assistant fluent in both Spanish and English. She has clinical experience providing speech and language services across a variety of settings, including private clinics, schools, and teletherapy platforms.
Melanie joined Central Florida Therapy in March 2026. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida and is certified as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
She is an active member of several special interest groups, including Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Language Learning and Education, Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia), and Fluency and Fluency Disorders. Her areas of expertise include AAC and language learning and education.
Melanie has completed specialized certifications through PRC-Saltillo, including the TouchChat Partner Program, LAMP Words for Life Partner Program, and Tobii Dynavox TD Snap Partner Program.
Originally born and raised in New Jersey, Melanie also spent several years living in Puerto Rico with her family before relocating to Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at the beach, everything Disney, and making memories with her family and her Goldendoodle, Cooper.
Lia Occupational Therapy Assistant
Lianet “Lia”, COTA/L, is a dedicated bilingual Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant with 8 years of experience in pediatric occupational therapy. She has provided services across a variety of settings, including pediatric clinics, schools, and home-based environments. Originally from Cuba, Lia is fluent in both English and Spanish and enjoys connecting with children and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
Lia earned her Bachelor’s degree and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Keiser University. Her professional interests include sensory processing and sensory integration, primitive reflex integration, neurodevelopment, feeding and oral-motor skills, emotional regulation, fine motor and visual-motor development, and promoting independence in self-care and daily activities. She is especially passionate about understanding each child’s individual sensory and developmental needs and using engaging, meaningful interventions to help children participate more successfully in their everyday lives.
Lia strongly values family-centered care and collaboration, working closely with families and other professionals to support each child’s individual strengths, needs, and goals. She is committed to continuing her professional growth in occupational therapy while providing compassionate and individualized care to the children and families she serves.
Outside of work, Lia enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their two children, Daniella and Aaron. Family is an important part of her life, and in her free time she enjoys cooking, listening to music, and creating special memories with her family.
Caitlyn Physical Therapist
Caitlyn PT, DPT is a dedicated Physical Therapist with a strong foundation in complex care and a deep commitment to patient care. They joined our team at CFT in December 2023 and bring a vibrant mix of energy, compassion, and clinical knowledge to the clinic.
Caitlyn was born in Houston, Texas and raised in the sunny shores of Key West, Florida. They completed their undergraduate studies at Florida State University and the University of Central Florida, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. Caitlyn then went on to receive a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from UCF in 2023.
Caitlyn’s professional interests include pediatrics, adaptive equipment, complex care, and neurologic rehabilitation. During their time in school, Cait participated in the Rock Climbing Rehabilitation Special Interest Group and conducted research on Parkinson’s treatments—presenting their work at several physical therapy conferences. Most recently, their research was published in a peer-reviewed journal. You can check out her manuscript here!
Outside of work, Caitlyn loves all things Disney, rock climbing, skateboarding, video games, puzzles, and spending time with their beloved cat, Flute. Fun Fact: Cait’s been a vegetarian for the past six years. Family is also very important to them—their parents still live in Key West, and their brothers are in Salt Lake City and Houston. Every December, the whole family comes together in Salt Lake City to celebrate Christmas and hit the slopes for some snowboarding.
Karen Occupational Therapist
Family information: Married to Scott for 28 years. Mother of 3. Oldest son, 23 years old, brain tumor survivor who was a patient at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis for 18 years. He graduated with an electrical engineering degree from the University of Florida. He is currently in the process of moving from Tampa to start with an engineering company in New York City. His office will be in the Empire State Building! My middle child, daughter, is 21 years old and a rising senior at the University of Florida. She is getting a degree in Public Health and a minor in Disabilities in Society, with hopes of going into health law. She is also the Director of Philanthropy at UF Tri Delta, fundraising for St. Jude! My youngest child is soon to be 20 years old. He is a rising sophomore at the University of Florida and is studying finance. He plays lacrosse for the University of Florida.
Hobbies: photography (was a sports, family, and senior portrait photographer for over 12 years), attending sporting events (especially UF sports), traveling, playing the piano, watching movies, and soon to be starting back up on playing drumset.
Fun Fact(s): Played the drums for over 5 years. Met my husband on a blind date. Lived in Thailand for a year. Daughter of an air force fighter pilot.
Personal quote about what you enjoy about your job/ working at CFT: Being a mom to a son who was diagnosed with a brain tumor at just 7 months old, I was inspired to become an OT to help more children and their families going through unique challenges. I love the creativity that comes with working in pediatric settings and the joy of helping children grow through play. I am fortunate to be a part of the CFT team and to work and collaborate with many talented, passionate therapists.
Favorite resources (websites/ instagram accounts to follow, etc.) for caregiver tips/ strategies: Harkla, The OT Toolbox, Reflex Integration Through Play
Rebekkah Occupational Therapy Assistant
Bekkah is an Occupational Therapy Assistant who earned her degree in 2022. She discovered her passion for occupational therapy through nine years of volunteering and caregiving with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These experiences sparked her passion for helping children who are often misunderstood feel seen, understood, and empowered to reach their highest potential.
Bekkah enjoys taking a holistic approach to occupational therapy, looking at each child as a whole and considering their individual strengths, interests, environment, and goals. She believes that building genuine connections with her clients and their families is an important part of creating meaningful and lasting progress.
Bekkah is earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Neuroscience track from the University of Central Florida (UCF), allowing her to further explore her interest in the brain, development, and the many factors that shape how we learn, grow, and interact with the world around us.
Outside of work, Bekkah is a huge animal lover and shares her home with her Lab mix and seven snakes. She loves being outdoors and enjoys exploring new trails by bike or on a jog. When she’s at home, you can usually find her enjoying one of her many hobbies, including art, cooking, music, anime, and binge-worthy shows. She also loves meeting new people and making connections with people from all different walks of life.
Family has always been especially important to Bekkah. Growing up as one of 16 grandchildren, she was fortunate to be surrounded by a large and close-knit family. She remains very involved with her grandparents, helping them stay active and engaged as they continue to enjoy life at 85, 90, and 93 years old. Their health, energy, and longevity inspire Bekkah to appreciate every stage of life and hope to be just as fortunate as she grows older.
Bekkah’s personal goal is to continue growing both professionally and personally while making a positive impact on the children and families she has the opportunity to work with.
Christine Speech-Language Pathologist
Christine M.S., CCC-SLP, is an experienced and passionate speech-language pathologist dedicated to helping individuals achieve their communication goals. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida and her Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from New York University.
Christine is a certified by the American Speech-Language Association (ASHA) and specializes in feeding and swallowing disorders (dysphagia), Early Intervention (EI), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), cognitive-linguistic rehabilitation, speech sound disorders, and caregiver coaching. She has also completed LAMP certification.
Christine joined CFT in October 2025 and is a proud Orlando native. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and nature walks, gardening, photography, bird-watching, yoga, Pilates, and creating spontaneous adventures with her family.