Deidre is a Speech-Language Pathologist whose professional journey began as a member of Ontario’s inaugural cohort of CDAs. For more than three decades, she has combined clinical practice, teaching, scholarship, and innovation in acquired brain injury rehabilitation. Deidre has contributed to the profession through teaching, scholarship, and volunteer service both at home in Canada and internationally. At the heart of Deidre’s contributions has always been her clinical work and her commitment to helping people rebuild meaningful lives following brain injury.
Known for her curiosity, creativity, humour, and willingness to look beyond traditional approaches, Deidre has spent her career wondering what the real world asks of people and how communication shapes participation. Drawing from her experiences and opportunities to work with mentors within Speech-Language Pathology and beyond, she has shaped an approach that is holistic, community-based, and positive.
In her role with the School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University, Deidre brings her clinical experience and perspectives to problem-based learning, helping graduate students connect evidence, clinical reasoning, and the realities of everyday clinical life.
Deidre believes communication is fundamental to human connection, identity, and participation. Licensed in both Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador, she plans to continue using her skills to help people build communities that include every person and every voice.
