Alyssa Dixon

Job Title
Speech-Language Pathologist

Department/Location
Powell River Community Health

How long have you worked at VCH?
Almost 3 months.

Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
I provide speech-language pathology services to children from birth to kindergarten entry in Powell River and the surrounding areas. This can include community and family consultation as well as assessment and individual therapy sessions for children with speech, language, social communication and play delays.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
That moment when a child says their first word, tries a new sound, takes a turn in a song, points to a picture or makes eye contact for the first time. Having the opportunity to share that moment with a family and their child is pretty special. And yes, sometimes I have to hold back some tears.

How does your work contribute to the VCH True North goals?
As speech-language pathologists we are able to contribute not only to providing quality care at the individual level, but also at the community level. Through participation in community screenings, collaboration with daycare and preschool staff as well as developing relationships with community professionals we are able to play an active role in the health and wellness of our communities.

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
I always have my toenails painted; even in the winter.

Three things you always have in your fridge:
Milk, berries and at least one kind of cheese.

Who or what inspires you?
The families and children that I work with every day. The energy, compassion and dedication that they have inspires me to continue to work hard, and strive to be the best SLP that I can be.

Most healthy habit:
Reading and encouraging myself to exercise more often. Exercising is like a gift, it’s the thought that counts, right?

Favourite vacation spot:
Manitoulin Island, Ontario