Lois Brady: Advancing Communication Through Technology
A comprehensive portfolio showcasing two decades of leadership in speech-language pathology, assistive technology development, and autism intervention research. From clinical practice to innovative research grants, this presentation highlights my contributions to advancing communication access for diverse populations.
Professional Journey
1995-2014
Speech-Language Pathologist at Spectrum Center Schools & Programs
Provided comprehensive therapy services for diverse populations with communication challenges, supervised clinical staff, and developed enhanced intervention programs.
2020-Present
Publisher of Autism Digest
Managing editorial content and publication of a quarterly magazine dedicated to autism research, intervention strategies, and community resources.
2014-Present
CEO, Co-Founder, Principal Investigator at iTherapy, LLC
Leading research and development of assistive technology tools for autism, securing and managing multiple government and private grants.
My career progression demonstrates a commitment to advancing both clinical practice and technological innovation in the field of communication disorders, particularly for individuals with autism.
Educational Background & Leadership Roles
Education
M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from CSU, Northridge, CA
M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from CSU, Northridge, CA
M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from CSU, Northridge, CA
My specialized education has provided the foundation for both clinical excellence and research innovation in assistive communication technologies.
Board Leadership
Board of Directors, United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (Present)
Board of Directors, United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (Present)
These leadership positions reflect my commitment to advocacy and policy development in communication access at both state and national levels.
Author & Publisher: Lois Brady's Publications
Lois Brady's extensive experience and research are also reflected in her published works, providing valuable resources to the communication and autism communities.
Apps for Autism: An Essential Guide to Over 200 Effective Apps
A comprehensive guide detailing over 200 effective mobile applications designed to support individuals on the autism spectrum.
Speak, Move, Play and Learn With Children on the Autism Spectrum
Offers practical strategies and activities to foster communication, motor skills, and learning through engaging play-based interventions.
Speech in Action
Focuses on actionable techniques and approaches to facilitate and enhance speech development in various contexts.
Animal Assisted Therapy
Explores the therapeutic benefits and practical methods of incorporating animal-assisted interventions into communication and developmental programs.
Autism Digest (Quarterly Magazine)
A leading quarterly publication providing insights, research updates, and practical resources for families and professionals in the autism community.
National Science Foundation Grants
NSF Phase I Grant (2020-2021)
Developed an interactive AI platform specifically designed to enhance communication abilities in individuals with autism. This research explored novel approaches to integrating artificial intelligence with established speech therapy interventions.
Key outcomes included proof-of-concept validation and preliminary efficacy data supporting further development.
NSF Phase II: EASI-AS (2022-2024)
Building on Phase I success, this ongoing project develops the Evaluative Artificial Speech Intelligence Autism Screener, applying AI and machine learning algorithms to improve autism diagnostics.
As Principal Investigator, I lead a multidisciplinary team of speech pathologists, data scientists, and software engineers working to create more accessible and accurate screening tools.
Author & Publisher: Lois Brady's Publications
NIH R43 Grant (2019-2020)
Video-Assisted Speech Technology for Autism: Developed and validated innovative video modeling approaches to support speech development in autistic children.
Microsoft AI for Accessibility (2019)
Successfully integrated Microsoft Azure AI technology into communication tools, enhancing speech recognition capabilities for individuals with speech differences.
Epic Unreal MegaGrant (2020-2021)
Pioneered mixed reality communication systems using gaming technology to create immersive communication practice environments for users with communication disorders.
AFWERX Phase I Grant (2023)
Evaluating and validating the technical feasibility of communication technology applications for specialized populations, in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force innovation initiative.
Lego Play for All Program (2022)
Selected as an accelerator partner for this initiative, integrating structured play techniques with communication development for children with autism and related conditions.
Core Research Focus: AI in Communication
Artificial Intelligence Applications in Communication Disorders
My research consistently explores innovative applications of artificial intelligence to address challenges in communication disorders, particularly for individuals with autism. Key focus areas include:
Speech pattern recognition algorithms that adapt to individual communication profiles, enabling personalized intervention strategies
Natural language processing systems that provide real-time feedback during communication practice, reinforcing successful interactions
Predictive analytics that identify early markers of communication disorders, potentially enabling earlier intervention
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems enhanced with AI to improve usability and accessibility
Clinical Expertise & Methodologies
Comprehensive Assessment
Specialized expertise in evaluating complex communication disorders, particularly in autism spectrum conditions, using standardized and dynamic assessment protocols. Developed novel assessment approaches that incorporate technology to improve accuracy and efficiency.
Intervention Design
Creation of evidence-based intervention programs that integrate traditional speech-language therapy approaches with cutting-edge technology. Focus on functional communication outcomes that transfer across environments.
Progress Monitoring
Implementation of data-driven progress monitoring systems that provide actionable insights for intervention adjustments. Development of digital tools that automate data collection while maintaining clinical validity.
My clinical methodologies consistently emphasize the integration of technology with established therapeutic practices, ensuring interventions remain both innovative and grounded in evidence-based approaches.
IEP Systems & Educational Integration
Throughout my career, I've developed specialized expertise in Individualized Education Program (IEP) systems, particularly for students with complex communication needs. My approach focuses on:
Data-Driven Goal Setting
Developed systematic approaches to establishing measurable, functional communication goals that align with curriculum standards while addressing individual needs.
Technology Integration
Created protocols for seamlessly incorporating assistive communication technologies into classroom environments, ensuring consistent implementation across educational settings.
Collaborative Team Models
Established interdisciplinary collaboration frameworks that align speech-language intervention with classroom instruction, maximizing educational outcomes for students with communication disorders.
These systems have been implemented across multiple educational environments, demonstrating significant improvements in both communication outcomes and academic performance.
IEP Systems & Educational Integration
Beyond her published works, Lois Brady actively engages in Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), serving as the crucial "human half" of a registered team. This hands-on involvement allows for the practical application of her research and insights into the therapeutic benefits of human-animal interaction for communication and well-being.
Certified Partnership
Operating as a registered human-animal therapy team, ensuring professional and ethical standards in therapeutic interventions.
Enhancing Communication
Leveraging the unique bond with animals to facilitate improved social interaction, emotional regulation, and expressive language skills.
Specialized for Autism
Applying AAT methods tailored to the specific needs of individuals on the autism spectrum, fostering comfort and engagement.
Skills & Expertise Summary
Bridging Clinical Excellence & Technological Innovation
Technical Expertise
AI integration in communication assessment and intervention
Blockchain applications for communication data management
Mixed reality environments for communication practice
Speech recognition and natural language processing
Research methodology and grant management
Clinical Specialization
Autism intervention strategies and evaluation
Augmentative and alternative communication systems
IEP development and implementation
Clinical supervision and program development
Interdisciplinary collaboration in complex cases
My unique combination of clinical expertise and technological innovation has positioned me at the forefront of transformative developments in communication access for diverse populations. I bring both practical implementation experience and visionary research direction to projects addressing communication challenges.