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Claire Casault

For Claire Casault, a full-time clinician at the Institute for Stuttering Treatment and Research (ISTAR), the journey to becoming a speech-language pathologist began with a simple opportunity in junior high. “I originally became interested in speech therapy when I shadowed my cousin for a day,” she recalls.  But it was a deeply personal family experience that confirmed her choice of career path. “When my grandfather got sick with Parkinson's and lost his ability to communicate verbally, I truly understood how vital communication is to one's health and wellbeing.” Learning more about speech language pathology felt like a natural next step, so she could focus on helping people to communicate while also following her interests in language, science, health, art and music.

Casault completed a bachelor of arts in linguistics and a master’s in speech-language pathology at the ¶®É«µÛ, where she was first introduced to the Institute for Stuttering Treatment and Research (ISTAR) through volunteer work and later a clinical placement. After graduating and gaining experience in public health, she returned to ISTAR to further explore her interest in stuttering. 

At ISTAR, her week is a dynamic mix of working with both children and adults. “I spend three days of the week working with clients who are part of ISTAR’s stuttering program — they could be any age!” she explains. “The other two days, I will often see children with other communication needs such as speech sounds or language.” She uses a client-centred approach with just the right touch of humour to help clients feel supported and relaxed. “We come up with therapy program plans together and check in frequently to ensure we are on the same page. The client's goals, interests and strengths are very important to therapy.”

What drives Casault most is the transformation she witnesses in her clients. “Seeing the confidence of clients increase as they build their communication skills over time is the most rewarding experience,” she shares. “Communication has an immense impact on every aspect of an individual’s life, and to support someone in being able to participate more in school, family or work activities in a more joyful way is why I chose this profession.”

Outside of work, Casault brings the same joy and creativity to her personal life. A lover of travelling, hiking and camping, she also enjoys yoga, art, reading and writing. “I will often go for long walks each day to clear my head and get exercise.” She also has a musical background in singing and playing the piano, and is now trying her hand at playing the ukulele. Her varied interests keep her busy and help her to connect with clients in meaningful ways as she continues to learn and grow.

For those considering a career in speech-language pathology, Casault offers this advice: “One of the most important qualities you can bring to the field is a mind open to continuous learning. This means that you are curious about new research, seeking out professional development opportunities and listening to what colleagues, team members and clients have to teach you.” Claire’s empathy, expertise and dedication to growing in knowledge for her clients are a beautiful example of doing just that.