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Jul 2025
33m 14s

Navigating Parenthood and Private Practi...

Jena Castro-Casbon
About this episode

Are you worried that starting a private practice will be too much work and take you away from your family life? Today’s guest is proof that you can build a career on your own terms and make it work for you!

Joining me is Ricki Klein, someone I’ve actually known for a while! Ricki is an SLP, mom, and owner of Kid Speak Easy, her private practice in Sudbury, Massachusetts. 

Ricki left the workplace during the pandemic as her young family experienced a lot of change. After constantly giving out free advice at the park, Ricki realized she missed working and wanted to figure out a way to dip her toe back into clinical work. 

In this episode, Ricki shares how she created a private practice that is professionally fulfilling, fits her family’s needs and schedule, and gives her the balance that so many family-oriented SLPs are searching for.

Ricki Klein is licensed in the state of Massachusetts and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She graduated from Hamilton College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, then went on to Emerson College, where she obtained her Masters of Science in Communication Disorders. 

Ricki supports children of all ages, with a focus on preschool and school-age children, who have a range of speech and language difficulties. Ricki enjoys working closely with families and teachers in a collaborative manner to develop treatment plans that allow children to make progress across all contexts. Ricki lives in Sudbury, MA, with her husband and two young children. 

In Today's Episode, We Discuss:

  • Ricki’s hesitancy toward the logistics of starting a private practice 
  • How her first paying client gave her enough fulfillment to go all in 
  • Learning to get over fear and network organically 
  • How Ricki gives back to her community through her business
  • Why you shouldn’t worry if your area is oversaturated with providers

Even though Ricki’s journey started differently than what she had planned, she was able to grow her practice intentionally while maintaining balance at home. 

If Ricki’s story inspired you and you're thinking, “I want to do that…” — you can. We help SLPs and OTs get set up, start seeing clients, and build sustainable businesses through our Start Your Private Practice Program. If you're ready to take the next step, head over to www.IndependentClinician.com to learn how we can support you.

Resources Mentioned: 

Check out Ricki’s practice: https://www.kidspeakeasy.com/

 Find support to start your private practice: http://www.IndependentClinician.com

Where We Can Connect: 

Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199

Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/

Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/slp.private.practice.beginners/

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