About Me.
Hello, I’m Heeral.
I’m a Speech and Language Therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting children’s speech, language and communication. My work focuses on helping children feel understood, capable and confident in expressing themselves.
Communication is deeply personal. It is shaped by culture, family and community, and it influences how a child experiences the world around them. I see supporting communication not simply as developing skills, but as strengthening connection, confidence and participation in everyday life.
My approach is thoughtful, calm and evidence-informed. I take time to understand each child properly before building a tailored plan around their strengths, needs and environment. Therapy is structured yet flexible, with clear goals and practical strategies that fit naturally into family life. I work closely with parents so progress continues beyond the session itself.
I’m based in South London and offer sessions across Croydon, Bromley and neighbouring boroughs during school hours (9am–2pm).
My aim is always steady progress, helping children grow in clarity and confidence, and supporting families to feel informed and empowered along the way.
Portfolio of Work
I feel fortunate to have contributed to a range of meaningful projects — you can explore some of them below.
Qualifications and Early Practice
I qualified in Speech Science at University College London (UCL) in 2009 and began my career in South London, working across community clinics and primary schools as part of the NHS. Since then, I have worked in secondary schools, resource bases, and later as a clinic lead and clinic manager. These roles deepened my commitment to children, young people, and their families, and shaped the way I practise today: with care, consistency, and the belief that communication underpins confidence and connection.
NHS Commitment and Consultancy
I worked in the NHS for over 15 years, gaining invaluable experience and insight from colleagues, children, and families. That time continues to influence my approach today. I remain connected to the service by consulting on Best Start in Speech, Language, and Communication - a national preventative campaign supporting families to access clear, supportive, and accurate information about language development - you can see more about this campaign in the video.
Advocacy and Professional Recognition
I am an active member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) and currently serve on the Professional Practice and Policy Committee. Advocacy for children, families, and the profession is central to my ethos, and I am proud to contribute to shaping practice at a national level.
Sharing Knowledge and Engagements
I’ve had the privilege of guest lecturing at Coventry University, supporting students on the Return to Practice course, and contributing as an apprentice board member at HCPC and in an advisory capacity at Speech and Language UK. More recently, I spoke at the Early Years Summit 2023, where I shared insights on early language development and how we can work collectively towards more inclusive practice.
Impact and Aspiration
What motivates me most is impact. Creating real, lasting change for children and their families. Whether through therapy, coaching, or system-wide advocacy, my aim is always the same: to ensure every child has the best possible support to communicate, connect, and thrive.
Ongoing Professional Development
Continued learning is a core part of my practice. Over the years, I’ve trained in a wide range of evidence-based approaches, including:
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The Lidcombe Program – stammering therapy
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Palin PCI – stammering therapy
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It Takes Two to Talk (Hanen) – early language programme
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Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
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The SCERTS Model
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Parent Child Interaction (PCI)
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Parent Advisory Training – King’s College London
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BRIEF Solution Focused Therapy
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Diploma in Life Coaching