May 2025 Newsletter
(L-R): Natalie Aguirre, Reyhanak Shafiiha-Taylor, Preetha Sundareswaran, Rosalynn Domatay-Romero, Verilz Geronimo, Erika Perez
In February, we shared an important step in our growth as an organization: the introduction of our new Clinical Director leads and a restructured clinical framework. This change came directly from insights gained during last year’s organizational and service assessments, which emphasized the need for a more supportive and sustainable clinical structure. At the heart of these changes is our commitment to strengthening staff development, creating clear paths for leadership development and long-term succession planning so that our clients and staff benefit from consistent, relationship-driven care for years to come.
This month, we take the next step forward by welcoming our newly appointed Service Leads. These dedicated team members will work in close partnership with our Clinical Directors to provide direct mentorship to clinicians, support case reviews and treatment planning, and ensure consistent clinical practices across teams. Their role is essential in strengthening day-to-day care for clients and fostering a supportive environment for staff development and clinical excellence.
Each of these individuals is an exceptional clinician with a deep commitment to PCDA’s mission. Their expertise and dedication have been essential in supporting the diverse needs of the individuals and families we serve. As leaders, they bring a wide range of clinical perspectives, cultural backgrounds, and lived experiences that enhance our ability to provide relationship-based, individualized care. Their leadership strengthens our commitment to fostering an inclusive, collaborative environment where staff, clients, and families feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Please join us in recognizing and supporting our new Service Leads as they step into these roles. Their leadership reflects PCDA’s continued investment in growing together—strengthening our care, developing our teams, and building a future where every young person and family we serve feels empowered and connected.
Natalie Aguirre, MS, OTR/L, SWC, Lead of Occupational Therapy, Feeding, and Young Adults Group
Reyhanak Shafiiha-Taylor, MA, Lead of Floortime Services
Preetha Sundareswaran, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, Lead of Speech Language Therapy
Erika Perez, BA, Group Services Program Supervisor
Joining Rosalynn Domatay-Romero, MA, Group Services Program Supervisor and Verliz Geronimo, BA, Group Services Program Supervisor
When Preetha Sundareswaran set out to pursue board certification in child language, she wasn’t just chasing a credential—she was following a deeper purpose: to grow as a clinician and to better serve the families she works with every day at PCDA.
“I wanted to deepen my knowledge and clinical expertise to be a more informed collaborator with my peers and to provide the highest level of care to the children and families I support,” Preetha shared.
Her journey led her to the American Board of Child Language and Language Disorders (ABCLLD), where she undertook the rigorous process to become a Board Certified Specialist in Child Language (BCS-CL). The certification recognizes speech-language pathologists who demonstrate advanced knowledge, leadership, and clinical skill in the field of child language.
The path wasn’t easy. The two-phase process required her to document extensive qualifications in the first stage. In the second, she submitted a comprehensive case study, demonstrating how she applies her expertise in real-world clinical work. Each step demanded thoughtful reflection, deep knowledge, and a clear commitment to best practices.
“Staying grounded in evidence-based research is essential,” she said. “It informs my assessments, treatment planning, and collaboration with families—and that leads to better outcomes for the children I serve.”
Now certified, Preetha is excited to bring this advanced perspective to PCDA’s broader mission. Her certification allows her to contribute more to program development and help foster a culture of continuous learning—goals that closely align with PCDA’s values.
“This recognition is meaningful because it reflects a commitment to excellence and to the values we live by at PCDA,” she added.
She’s also eager to support others: “I’m always open to questions, guidance, and collaboration. Whether it’s fellow clinicians, staff, or families—I’m here to be a resource.”
Please join us in congratulating Preetha on this incredible achievement. Her dedication, curiosity, and commitment to lifelong learning continue to inspire us all!
☀️ A Celebration of Creativity and Inclusion
🗓 Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM
📍 Location: 790 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
PCDA’s Annual Summer Talent Show: A Celebration of Creativity and Inclusion, presented by our Creative Arts Program and Parent Advisory Committee, showcases inspiring music and visual art created by individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
This heartwarming event highlights the power of creativity, confidence, and community—bringing together families, friends, and supporters in a shared celebration of self-expression and inclusion. Help us make this year’s event the biggest yet—come be inspired!
All are welcome—bring your friends, your family, and your best applause! Let’s shine together! ✨
📢 Performers, sign-up here: https://forms.office.com/r/jNR9nwkSvK
Want to give your performer a special shoutout?
We’re excited to offer families the opportunity to sponsor a personal ad in the Talent Show event program! Similar to a yearbook tribute, these ads are a great way to cheer on your child, share words of encouragement, or celebrate their creativity.
Please email development@pcdateam.org for more information!
Virtual Coffee Corner ☕
Join me—Kristine, your Development Manager—every First Friday of the month from 9:00–9:30 AM for a casual virtual hangout!
Next hangout: June 6 @ 9am!
Add this to your calendar!
Whether you want to chat about PCDA’s fundraising efforts, the weather, weekend plans, your favorite TV show or movie, or just say hi 👋🏽, the Coffee Corner is open to all. Drop in, hop out—whatever works for you. No agenda, no pressure—just friendly conversation and connection.
Looking forward to sharing a cup and a chat with you soon!