Meet Your Therapist

Joanna Butler, M. Ed

I’m a speech-language pathologist with a decade of experience in helping students of all ages develop communication skills for academic, professional, and social life. Over time, my work has increasingly focused on adolescents and transition-age students with complex language and social communication needs.

My clinical background includes experience with:

  • expressive and receptive language disorders

  • language-based learning disabilities

  • vocabulary and literacy

  • executive functioning challenges

  • social communication/pragmatic language

  • ADHD/Autism

  • accent modification and communication confidence

As my career evolved, I became more interested in the relationship between neuroplasticity in language learning, and how the nervous system can be optimized to support literacy in the classroom setting.

This led me to develop the VANI Method: a counseling-informed communication framework that integrates evidence-based speech-language therapy with executive functioning support, mindfulness, and compassionate, strengths-based care.

Inspired by contemplative and dharmic principles such as sankalpa (intentionality), disciplined practice, self-awareness, and meaningful action, the VANI Method helps my clients strengthen communication skills that support all facets of their lives.

Having grown up in a multicultural environment, I value approaching communication through a neuro-affirmative and culturally responsive lens. I believe effective therapy requires curiosity, compassion, strong clinical reasoning, and deep respect for each person’s individual lived experience.

In addition to direct therapy services, I am passionate about IDEA and FERPA compliance and ensuring that students receive the services they need to thrive. I have extensive experience with the IEP, including attending meetings and collaborating closely with families, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to support functional progress across all settings.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of West Georgia and my Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders. I am a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and hold licensure in the state of Georgia and Alaska (pending).

Outside of therapy, I am a lifelong learner and enjoy reading, writing, and spending time with family in Atlanta.

We’re Accepting New Clients!