Lynn Ellwood
My career
I teach at the University of Toronto. I work with people who have communication difficulties arising from acquired disorders such as stroke, and provide pronunciation skills training for people speaking English with an accent.
My work experience
I became a Speech-Language Pathologist in 1986. I was drawn to the profession because I could help people overcome the challenges that communication difficulties bring. At first I focused on adult neurogenic rehabilitation, helping people after a stroke or head injury. My experience broadened, encompassing a wide range of settings, from acute care to community-based, and in both public and private sectors. Since the 1990s I have been applying my clinical skills to help people who speak English as a second language. I have broad experience in the area of accent modification, working with groups and individuals in corporate boardrooms and the private practice setting.
My clinical titles have included Senior Speech-Language Pathologist and Clinical Practice Leader. I was a Senior Case Manager (Brain Injury Specialty) within a private practice firm. I am an Associate Professor, Teaching Stream, in the Graduate Department of Speech-Language Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, at the University of Toronto. I joined the department in 2003 in response to the department’s need for additional resources to address expanding enrollment. I maintain an active and growing private practice in the areas of neuro-rehabilitation and accent modification.
Professional accomplishments
As a member of a panel of experts, I helped to develop professional practice guidelines for cognitive communication disorders for CASLPO.
I spearheaded the development of “The Communicators”, a support group for individuals with aphasia and their family members in the Niagara Region, and a similar group for people with laryngectomies.
I facilitated the development of a multi-disciplinary intervention program for people with voice disorders at an out-patient rehabilitation facility.
Throughout my career, I have mentored students and clinical peers in the field of speech-language pathology.
I hold a Teacher Training Certificate from the Faculty of Medicine, Continuing Education, at the University of Toronto. I present to local, national and international audiences on topics relating to speech-language pathology education. I am an advisor to various committees and workgroups for SAC and CASLPO.
Professional Goals
To prepare the coming generation of speech-language pathology clinicians for practice in challenging education, healthcare and private practice settings.
To help individuals with neurologically based communication difficulties to achieve their best recovery, no matter time post-onset of symptoms, by applying principles of neuroplasticity and best clinical practices.
To help adults who speak English as a second language learn the skills for speaking clearly and effectively in work and social situations.
Professional Affiliations
