McKenzie Gifford, MS, CF/SLP started her career as an SLP in Dickson, TN, after completing her BS in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Tennessee and an MS in Speech Pathology, completed in 2022 at Tennesee State University.
We took some time to discuss the start of her career as an SLP!
Why did you choose to become a speech-language Pathologist?
I chose to become a Speech Pathologist because of the positive impact we have on people’s ability to do what they love. Communicating with your loved ones while enjoying a meal together is so important to many people, and I’m honored to have a hand in my patient’s return to those things.
Why did you decide to work with the geriatric population?
The geriatric population became very dear to my heart during my medical externship in graduate school. I was in a skilled nursing facility and really learned how much of an impact speech pathologists have on this population. Communicating with loved ones and eating our favorite snacks are things most of us take for granted. Being someone that helps people return to doing both of those things is something I really enjoy doing. The wisdom the geriatric population offers is also an honor to be exposed to. I learn so much from my patients every day!
“I chose to become a Speech Pathologist because of the positive impact we have on people’s ability to do what they love.”
What are you looking forward to most as a new clinician and first-year SLP?
During my first year as an SLP, I am looking forward to growing as a confident and competent clinician. I hope to become a therapist my patients enjoy seeing and truly feel makes a difference in their care.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy reading in my free time and traveling whenever I have the chance.
What have you appreciated most during your time with Encore?
I am very thankful for the resources Encore has to offer its clinicians. The clinical resources and wisdom Encore employees have to share is appreciated as a new clinician. During these first weeks, I have felt very supported. I know I will always have someone in my corner!
“I am very thankful for the resources Encore has to offer its clinicians.”
McKenzie, welcome to the Encore team, and we look forward to your continued growth and enthusiasm as a Speech-Language Pathologist!
