Breastfeeding is one of the most natural, beautiful experiences of motherhood, but it’s also a journey that can come with its own set of challenges. Whether you're a first-time mom or adding to your family, feeling confident in your breastfeeding experience can make all the difference. That’s where a Certified Lactation Consultant (CLC) comes in—especially when combined with the expertise of an Occupational Therapist (OT) and Speech Therapist (ST). As CLCs, we are uniquely equipped to provide the support and guidance that will help you feel empowered and confident throughout your breastfeeding journey.

the top 5 ways a CLC can support you and help you build that confidence:

One of the most common worries among new mothers is the question of milk supply. Many moms feel pressure to build a stash or wonder if they’re producing enough milk for their baby. The expectation of building a freezer stash can be misleading and cause unnecessary stress. As Certified Lactation Consultants, we can provide expert tips to increase your milk supply in a healthy, sustainable way.

We assess any possible negative influences that might be affecting your supply, such as improper latch or feeding frequency, and can evaluate milk transfer during breastfeeding. With the right support, you can gain a clearer understanding of your body’s milk production and how to ensure your baby is getting enough nourishment. Our goal is to help you feel confident in your ability to provide for your baby without the overwhelming pressure of unrealistic expectations.

A proper latch is crucial to successful breastfeeding, but it can take some practice for both you and your baby to get it right. If your baby is struggling to latch properly, it can cause pain and frustration. We can assess your baby’s latch step by step, looking at factors such as:

We also take into account your comfort level as a mother, because breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt. Sometimes, subtle adjustments to positioning or even the baby’s positioning can make a huge difference. With our training in both lactation consulting and therapy, we can provide a holistic approach to help you both get into a comfortable and effective rhythm.

3. Identifying and Addressing Painful Feedings

Pain during breastfeeding is often seen as a normal part of the process, but it doesn’t have to be. Painful feedings are usually a sign of an underlying issue—whether it’s nipple trauma, improper latch, oral dysfunction, or even something like tongue tie. As CLCs with training in occupational and speech therapy, we have the tools to identify the root cause of your discomfort and guide you toward solutions.

We’ll help you assess your baby’s latch and oral reflexes, as well as the overall positioning of both you and your baby during feedings. Whether the issue is anatomical or functional, we can create a personalized plan to alleviate pain and support your breastfeeding success, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.

Pumping can feel like a daunting task, especially for moms returning to work or managing a busy schedule. One of the most common issues we see is that many moms are using pump flanges that are too large, which can affect the efficiency of milk extraction. We can help you determine the correct flange size for your body, troubleshoot any issues with pumping, and establish a pumping schedule that works for you.

We understand that balancing work, home life, and pumping can be overwhelming. Our goal is to help you feel confident in your ability to pump effectively, whether you’re building a stash or just needing to pump for a feeding. With our expertise, you’ll have the support you need to make the most of your pumping sessions.

Returning to work after maternity leave is an exciting but stressful transition for many mamas. For breastfeeding mothers, the pressure to continue pumping or transitioning your baby to bottles can add extra anxiety. As Certified Lactation Consultants, we specialize in helping working mothers navigate this transition.

We’ll guide you in creating a pumping schedule that fits your workday and your baby’s needs. We can also assist with introducing your baby to bottles in a way that minimizes stress and ensures they can successfully take a bottle when you’re away. Our goal is to help you return to work with confidence, knowing that both you and your baby will continue to thrive, even when apart.

Bonus: Certified Infant Massage for Bonding and Relief

As Certified Infant Massage Coaches, we also offer support beyond breastfeeding. Infant massage can be an incredible tool for reducing colic-like symptoms, gas, and constipation. Not only does massage promote digestion and relaxation, but it also supports regulation, relief, and emotional bonding between you and your baby.

Through massage techniques, we can help your baby feel more comfortable and calm, promoting better sleep and overall well being. This adds another layer of support to your breastfeeding journey by fostering a deeper sense of connection and peace between you and your little one.

Breastfeeding can be a beautiful and empowering experience, but it doesn’t always come without its challenges. Gaining confidence in your breastfeeding journey is possible with the right support and guidance. As Certified Lactation Consultants with backgrounds in Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy, we bring a holistic, comprehensive approach to your breastfeeding experience. We’re here to provide the tools, knowledge, and support you need to feel confident in your ability to feed and nourish your baby.

Whether you’re struggling with latch, painful feedings, milk supply concerns, or pumping efficiency, we’re here to help. Together, we can create a breastfeeding plan that works for you and your baby, giving you the confidence you need to succeed.

Feel free to reach out to us for personalized support—we’re here to help every step of the way!

Ready to gain confidence in your breastfeeding journey?

 Reach out to our team today for personalized lactation support!

Top 5 Ways an OT or SLP Can Support Breastfeeding 

Getting your child into therapy quickly matters—and we know how challenging it can feel when waitlists are long or life gets in the way. At Marshall Pediatric Therapy, our priority is simple: 

we want your child to get the support they need as soon as possible.

 is such a valuable option for families. It allows your child to begin services right away, stay consistent, and keep making progress—all from the comfort of home. And when an in-clinic spot opens, the transition to in-person therapy is seamless.

Use the buttons below to connect with your closest Marshall Pediatric Therapy clinic:

⭐ Start Services Sooner With Telehealth

Telehealth is one of the quickest ways for your child to begin therapy. It removes barriers, shortens wait times, and gets families connected with licensed therapists faster.

get your child the care they need—without unnecessary delays.

⭐ Already In Clinic? Telehealth Helps You Stay Consistent

Telehealth isn’t just for new families. It’s also a fantastic backup option for families who already attend in-clinic sessions.

Instead of canceling, you can switch your appointment to a telehealth session.

We always love giving families choices—and telehealth is an excellent tool to keep things on track.

⭐ What a Telehealth Visit Looks Like at Marshall Pediatric Therapy

Curious about what a virtual therapy session actually feels like? Good news: it’s simple, secure, and surprisingly fun.

🔒 HIPAA-Compliant, Secure Video Platform

Your therapist meets with you through a safe, encrypted video link to protect your child’s privacy and ensure a smooth session.

👩‍🦰 A Parent or Caregiver Is Part of the Session

We ask that a parent stay in the room—and honestly, this is one of our favorite parts! You get to be part of therapy and learn strategies in your everyday environment 

🧸 Using Your Child’s Own Toys and Space

Therapists often use familiar toys, routines, and items from around your home. This helps skills click more naturally in your child’s real environment.

Kids absolutely light up when they get to show us their world. It keeps sessions engaging and joyful!

⭐ Why Telehealth Therapy Is So Effective

Telehealth isn’t a backup plan—it’s a proven, effective therapy option that many children thrive in.

Telehealth delivers the same high-quality therapy you expect in the clinic—with extra flexibility for busy families.

⭐ We’re Here to Support Your Child—Wherever You Are

Whether you’re wanting to start services sooner, looking for an alternative to canceling appointments, or just needing a more flexible routine, telehealth is a wonderful option to support your child’s growth.

We want your child to receive the therapy they need—as soon as possible and as consistently as possible.

 so that your family can grow skills for a better life. Telehealth helps make that happen.

Use the links below to connect with your closest Marshall Pediatric Therapy clinic:

Telehealth Therapy: A Convenient, Effective, and Faster Way for Your Child to Start Services

If you’re a parent raising a child with ADHD, you know that every day can bring both beautiful moments and big challenges. On our 

 podcast, Pam sat down with Mental Health Therapist 

 to unpack ADHD — not as a list of symptoms or struggles, but as a deeper understanding of how these kids experience the world.

ADHD is not a lack of focus — it’s a difference in focus.

 Kids with ADHD can focus deeply on what they love, but may struggle when something doesn’t feel engaging or rewarding. And as parents, that can be hard to navigate.

So often, we focus on what’s going wrong instead of what’s going right.

 At Marshall Pediatric Therapy, we believe that your child’s brain isn’t broken — it’s just wired differently. When we begin to see their differences as strengths, everything changes.

When a child with ADHD is overwhelmed, impulsive, or easily frustrated, it’s easy to focus on the surface-level behaviors. But 

 These moments are often your child’s way of saying, 

Occupational therapists and mental health therapists can help uncover what’s underneath those behaviors — sensory needs, emotional regulation challenges, or difficulties with transitions — and create tools that work for your unique family.

Therapy can help kids find calm, parents find confidence, and families find balance.

Don’t Let the World Ruin Your Child’s Light

Pam shared a powerful piece of advice that she received when she was seeking help for her son with adhd “

Don’t let the world ruin your child.”

It’s easy to forget how often children hear words like 

 Over time, those constant corrections can chip away at a child’s joy and confidence.

But as parents, you have the power to protect that light. Every child is born with a beautiful soul — full of curiosity, energy, and creativity. The world may not always understand your child’s uniqueness, but you can be their encourager — the one who helps them see their strengths instead of their struggles.

 to deal with daily. It’s exhausting when every routine feels like a battle. But as a mom (or dad), you can find strategies that don’t trigger those hard moments. That’s where 

Our therapists help families reorganize routines, set up environments for success, and uncover each child’s unique strengths. When you find what your child loves — what motivates them and makes them feel capable — you can use that to their advantage. That’s when we start to see real progress and peace at home.

Practical Tips for Parenting a Child with ADHD

Every family is different, but small changes can make big differences in your daily rhythm. Here are a few practical strategies that can help your mornings, routines, and transitions go more smoothly:

You can find these customizable templates on canva!

And if you’re not sure where to start — that’s exactly where our team can help. Our occupational and mental health therapists are experienced in helping families build personalized routines and advocate for the supports your child needs at school and at home.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone — and that help 

 make a difference. Our team at Marshall Pediatric Therapy offers 

 designed to help your family build skills for life. 

 Let’s find the right supports for your child — from evaluation to ongoing therapy. 

ADHD Unpacked with Mental Health Therapist Allison Leip

 — to hear more insights and encouragement from Pam and Allison.

Practical ADHD Parenting Tips to Make Routines Feel Easier

Autism Awareness Month isn't just about awareness—it's about celebration. It's a time to honor neurodiversity, creativity, and community by recognizing the many ways children experience and interact with the world. This April, we wanted to create something meaningful and fun—a toolkit for families to celebrate autism, imagination, and all the little things that make each child beautifully unique. Inside, you'll find curated movie picks, sensory-friendly and uplifting playlists, printable activities, and more!

This toolkit is designed to be flexible and fun!

You can print it out or use it digitally—at home, in therapy sessions, or even on the go. Share it with grandparents,  teachers, or therapists, and most importantly—share your child’s creations with us!

We’d love to see the joy in action. Just tag us on social media and help us spread the love and color of Autism Awareness Month!

Curated Movie List: Meaningful Stories with Neurodivergent Characters or Themes

Each of these movies and shows highlights neurodivergent characters, social-emotional growth, or sensory-friendly storytelling that helps kids feel seen, understood, and inspired. From animated shorts to full-length features, these stories spark meaningful conversations about identity, empathy, and the many beautiful ways people experience the world around us.

(You can find all of these featured in our downloadable PowerPoint, complete with movie posters and short notes on how each story supports empathy, inclusion, and emotional growth.)

We’ve created two special playlists to enjoy throughout the month: one for calm moments and one to lift spirits.

Music has a powerful way of reaching the brain and body- especially for children with autism. Studies show that certain types of music, like classical pieces and tracks with a slow, steady beat (typically around 60-80 beats per minute), can help regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and support focus. These gentle rhythms and predictable melodies offer a sense of safety and calm, making music a valuable tool during transitions, therapy sessions, or wind-down time. This sensory-sensitive playlist was thoughtfully curated to promote relaxation, emotional balance, and comfort- one beautiful note at a time.

While calming music helps settle the senses, uplifting music can spark joy, boost energy, and build confidence. Songs with positive lyrics, familiar melodies, and predictable rhythms can support emotional expression, encourage movement, and create meaningful moments of connection. Whether it’s dancing with a parent, singing along with a favorite character, or simply smiling at a catchy chorus, this playlist was designed to celebrate creativity, joy, and self-expression in a way that feels safe, fun, and empowering.

Creativity is a powerful way for kids to connect with themselves- and this toolkit was made to celebrate it. These printable activities are designed to help kids express who they are, explore different emotions, and enjoy sensory-friendly fun. 

From coloring pages to emotional check-ins, each page encourages self-expression in a way that feels safe, joyful, and uniquely theirs.

Page 1: “My Superpower is…” – Kids fill in what makes them unique!

Page 2: “Reach for the Stars” – Galaxy background for big dreams.

Page 3: Company Values/Ribbon – Features a ribbon alongside images and words for Courage, Happiness, Excellence, Family, and Love.

Whether you’re a parent, therapist, teacher, or sibling—this toolkit is for you! Let’s make Autism Awareness Month more than a moment. Let’s make it a celebration of creativity, courage, and connection all of the time!

Print it. Share it. Color it. Dance to it.

And when you do, don’t forget to tag our clinic so we can celebrate alongside you!

Together, we make the world more inclusive, joyful, and kind—one wonderful child at a time.

Autism Awareness Month at Home: A Toolkit

As parents, we all want to see our children grow and develop in a healthy, happy way. However, sometimes we notice that something doesn't seem quite right with their development, behavior, or emotional well-being. If you're feeling concerned or confused about your child's development, you're not alone—and we’re here to help!

, we offer comprehensive psychological evaluations to help you better understand your child’s strengths and challenges. Dr. Jamie Roig, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist with over 17 years of experience, conducts these evaluations at our Lexington office. The goal of these evaluations is to provide clarity, guidance, and personalized recommendations.

Here, we answer some of the most common questions parents have about psychological evaluations for children.

Have you ever had concerns that something was not quite right with your child’s development? You are not alone, and we are here to help!

From the time of conception, children grow and develop differently. Sometimes, the development we see doesn’t fit with what is considered normal or average and this can cause worry and confusion. Marshall Pediatric Therapy is now offering comprehensive psychological evaluation with Jamie Roig, Ph.D. at our Lexington office. Through a comprehensive psychological evaluation, Dr. Roig will help you understand your child’s development by collecting information needed to diagnose a variety of emotional, behavioral, developmental, and neurodivergent areas including:

Dr. Roig’s evaluations provide the clarity you need to make informed decisions for your child's future.

The evaluation process is designed to be thorough yet comfortable for both you and your child. It begins with an 

, where we gather important information about your child's development, social history, and health. We’ll also review any previous evaluations and treatment plans to help us understand your child's needs better.

Afterward, Dr. Roig will conduct one-on-one assessments with your child. These assessments are designed to evaluate areas such as cognitive ability, emotional regulation, behavior, and learning. Depending on the circumstances, we may also gather input from teachers and other caregivers, and review relevant records.

Once the evaluation is complete, we’ll schedule a 

 to share the results, answer your questions, and discuss recommendations for interventions or further treatments.

What age can children be referred for evaluation?

Dr. Roig is highly experienced with children and adolescents aged 

. Concerns about development, behavior, or emotional challenges may arise at any age, but sometimes these issues become more apparent as children enter more demanding environments, such as upper elementary, middle, or high school. Dr. Roig’s expertise allows her to assess children and make appropriate recommendations regardless of their age.

Does my child have to receive therapy at Marshall Pediatric Therapy if they see Dr. Roig for an evaluation?

No, your child does not have to receive therapy at Marshall Pediatric Therapy if they see Dr. Roig for an evaluation.

 The evaluation itself is independent, and at the end of the process, Dr. Roig will provide recommendations for treatment or interventions. If you choose to proceed with services at Marshall Pediatric Therapy, we can place your child on the waitlist, pending availability. However, you are free to explore other options for therapy and support.

While Marshall Pediatric Therapy does not offer crisis assessments, we understand that unexpected situations can arise. If your child is in immediate crisis, we will recommend appropriate referrals for prompt intervention to ensure your child gets the help they need as quickly as possible.

Do evaluations have to be conducted in person?

One-on-one assessments with children must be conducted in person

, as this allows Dr. Roig to observe and interact directly with your child. However, 

intake interviews and follow-up sessions are available via telehealth

 for your convenience, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your own home.

 for psychological evaluations, and we may also offer self-pay options. For more detailed information on insurance coverage or self-pay rates, please contact our office directly. Our team is happy to assist you in navigating this process to ensure that you receive the support you need.

If you’ve been concerned about your child’s development or behavior, a psychological evaluation can provide the clarity you need. Dr. Roig’s comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your child’s development are considered, and we are committed to offering clear answers and actionable recommendations.

At Marshall Pediatric Therapy, we are here to support your family and help your child build skills for life. Whether it’s understanding a possible diagnosis, identifying strengths and weaknesses, or finding the right interventions, we’re here for you every step of the way.

! We look forward to helping you better understand and support your child's unique needs.

From Our Experts

Top 5 Ways an OT or SLP Can Support Breastfeeding

Telehealth Therapy: A Convenient, Effective, and Faster Way for Your Child to Start Services

Practical ADHD Parenting Tips to Make Routines Feel Easier

Autism Awareness Month at Home: A Toolkit

Comprehensive Psychological Evaluations for Children: Your Questions Answered