Meet Fran: A Passionate Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Orofacial Myologist

Introduction

Frances is a wife, dedicated mother of two, and a highly experienced pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist. She is the founder and clinical director of Max Potential Therapy, a private practice that specializes in empowering children to reach their communication and feeding goals. With her extensive qualifications, including being a Qualified Orofacial Myologist, Fran is committed to improving the lives of countless children and families.

Background and Education

Frances received her undergraduate and graduate degree from Florida State University in 2009. She has held her Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) to since 2009.

Early Career and Diverse Experiences

Frances began her career at John Hopkins All Children's Hospital in Tampa, Florida. It was here that she skillfully served children with complex medical needs and diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Over the span of seven years, she honed her expertise in the outpatient setting, gaining valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by children and families.

Expanding Scope: A Private Practice and Personal Motivation

Relocating to Kissimmee, Florida, marked a turning point in her career, as she transitioned to a private practice. This allowed her to provide therapy services to children in various settings, including homes, schools, and daycares. After two years in Central Florida, Frances and her family relocated to the Jacksonville, Florida area to pursue career opportunities. It was during this time that her family experienced an unexpected journey when her second child, born prematurely at 10.5 weeks, required intensive medical intervention.

Pediatric Feeding Therapy and Orofacial Myology

Frances’ personal journey, encompassing the trials of breastfeeding challenges and her children's encounters with communication and feeding difficulties, became the catalyst for her to become a pediatric feeding therapist and an orofacial myologist. Driven by her commitment to help her own children, as well as countless others, she embarked on a comprehensive 12-week pediatric feeding course named "Feed the Peds." This course allowed her to deepen her understanding of pediatric feeding challenges and develop practical solutions.
Additionally, she pursued a 28-hour course in orofacial myology, complemented by a one-year clinical practicum. This intensive training equipped her with the knowledge and clinical skills necessary to address orofacial myofunctional disorders.

Going Beyond Boundaries

Fran's holistic approach ensures that each child she serves receives the utmost care and support they require to unlock their full potential.

Getting to know Fran…

Fran enjoys family beach days, reading books, dark chocolate, home-cooked meals and traveling the world. Fun facts: she has purposely jumped out of a perfectly good airplane for fun and was a violist for 20 years.