Meet the Owner
Michael Johnston, MCD,CCC-SLP
Hi, I'm Michael! I'm a nationally certified and Louisiana state-licensed speech-language pathologist. I grew up in DeSoto Parish, and after heading off to college, I came back home to raise my family and build my career here. I opened FUNdamental Pediatric Therapy in 2022, and it has been the most rewarding journey of my life. My goal was to give back to the community that raised me by bringing great therapy closer to home for rural families. I also wanted to create a place where therapists truly feel valued and supported. What started as one SLP's dream is now a growing multidisciplinary practice, and I couldn't be prouder of the work we do together every day.
My own journey as an SLP began at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where I earned my bachelor's degree in communication disorders, and continued at LSU Health Sciences Center – Shreveport, where I earned my master's degree in speech-language pathology. Before opening FUNdamental, I worked in private practice, elementary schools, and pediatric day health care centers for medically fragile children. I also provided early intervention in homes and daycares. I've had the privilege of working with children with language disorders, articulation and phonological disorders, autism, developmental delays, feeding and swallowing disorders, Down syndrome, childhood apraxia of speech, and other genetic and medically complex conditions.
I specialize in pediatric feeding disorders and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). I'm SOS trained and have completed the AEIOU feeding approach program and the Foundations of Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing coursework. I'm also a Certified Autism Specialist (IBCCES) and a recipient of ASHA's Award for Continuing Education (ACE). I'm always looking for new ways to help our kids and train our staff.
Families are at the heart of everything we do. I love getting to know the families who walk through our doors and seeing the impact our therapists have on each child. Hearing about a child's first word, a first bite of a new food, or a proud moment never gets old!
At FUNdamental Pediatric Therapy, we help kids grow, learn, and connect through therapy where play leads the way. And since that growth doesn't stop when a session ends, we partner closely with families, because kids thrive when the people who love them are part of the plan.
Flexibility & Resilience
Every child grows at their own pace, so we adapt, try new approaches, and keep going until we find what works.
Humility &
Positivity
We're always open to feedback, and we bring encouragement and a positive attitude to every session, celebrating the little wins along the way.
At FUNdamental Pediatric Therapy, we offer assessment and intervention using:
A family-centered approach, partnering with caregivers so strategies carry over into everyday life
A whole-child approach, looking at how communication, movement, feeding, sensory, and learning needs connect
Play-based therapy, so kids stay engaged, motivated, and having fun
Evidence-based practice, grounded in current research and clinical expertise
Accountability & Reliability
Families count on us, so we show up ready, communicate clearly, and follow through on what we say we'll do.
Community & Teamwork
Teamwork starts within our walls, where our therapists collaborate across disciplines, and extends to families, schools, and community partners, because every child thrives when everyone works toward the same goals.
Initiative &
Growth
Our team never stops learning, and we bring what we learn right back to the children and families we serve.
Integrity & Compassion
We're open and honest with families every step of the way, and we care for each child with patience, kindness, and respect, like they're our own.
Meet the Leadership Team
Director of Clinic Operations
Lindsay Carpenter
Assistant Director of Clinic Operations
Jennifer Haught, MCD, CCC-SLP
Director of Administration
Kimbre Jones
Director of Clinic Engagement
Alexis Little, MA, CCC-SLP
Team Lead
Mallory Klein
