Amy joined the Small Talk team in 2023. She has been a speech-language pathologist for 9 years, working with children and teens of all ages in the school, home and private practice settings. She is also currently employed by Royal Oak Schools, where she has been on the Birth to 3 team for 6 years. 

Amy earned her bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University, and her master’s from Western Michigan University. She is licensed by the state of Michigan and certified by the American Speech Language and Hearing Association. 

Amy believes that speech and language therapy should be empowering and fun for children and teens. She enjoys collaborating with caregivers to make sure that goals and strategies are aligned with home life. 

Amy is a lifelong Michigander, originally from Traverse City. She currently lives in Royal Oak. Outside of work, Amy enjoys running, swimming, travel, reading and spending time with friends and family.

Amy Avena, M.A.,CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist