Joan has been a speech pathologist for over 40 years, and has worked extensively with clients with complex communication disorders requiring Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) tools (hi-tech and low-tech), as well as autism and other speech, language, feeding and literacy disorders. Joan and Rosanna met in 2016 when they were working in the same team. The two developed an appreciation for the value of working with other disciplines for the benefit of their clients. Joan has been involved with the University of Queensland as tutor and guest lecturer, and has trained many students within the clinical practice programs.
Joan scaled down her working hours in 2021 to move towards semi-retirement, and in this process realised the value of her experience. She was keen to pass on her knowledge and experience to some of the next generation of speech pathologists.
When the opportunity presented to be part of the Billylids team as mentor, Joan was very excited to get involved – and we’re so proud to have her on our team. She has raised three billylids of her own and has four delightful grand-billylids to play with on her work-free days.