About
Hi, I’m Caroline!
I’m Caroline Elward-Ryan, a Speech and Language Therapist, mum of three and the founder of The Willow Tree Speech & Language Therapy.
I’ve been working as a Speech and Language Therapist for over a decade, supporting children and adults with a wide range of speech, language and communication needs.
My favourite thing about being a Speech and Language Therapist is getting to know the people and families I work with, working through challenges together and celebrating the progress they make along the way. Being even a small part of someone’s communication journey is a real privilege, and it’s what makes me love what I do.
My Approach
I believe therapy should be a positive, collaborative experience, with advice and strategies that feel manageable and fit into everyday life. Above all, I want families to feel comfortable, listened to and genuinely supported.
Over the years, it has become more apparent to me that good therapy outcomes occur when there are good relationships. That’s why I place an emphasis on getting to know the families I work with and earning their trust.
I bring plenty of enthusiasm, creativity and care to my work. I enjoy finding out what makes each person tick and working together to find approaches that really make a difference.
I’m also naturally curious and love learning. I’m always keen to explore new research, develop my knowledge and find creative, practical ways to support the people I work with.
My Experience
I qualified as a Speech and Language Therapist in 2015, completing my postgraduate diploma at City University, London.
Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of working with a wide range of people, from toddlers finding their first words to adults with complex communication needs.
My experience includes working within the NHS, mainstream and specialist schools, colleges, residential settings and independent practice. I’ve also had an extraordinary experience providing speech and language therapy internationally, in Delhi, India.
I specifically have a depth of skill and knowledge in early communication development, autism, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and supporting people with learning disabilities.
Although much of my work through The Willow Tree focuses on young children and their families, I also support older children and adults, particularly people with learning disabilities.
The Willow Tree
I first set up The Willow Tree in 2021, after the birth of my daughter, Willow, who (as you might have guessed) inspired the name.
I initially supported families, schools and nurseries across Richmond-upon-Thames, before moving back to my hometown of Folkestone, Kent, with my family in 2023.
Today, I offer specialised, flexible speech and language therapy support to families, schools and nurseries across East Kent, as well as online support for those further afield.
My aims for The Willow Tree are to make speech and language therapy accessible for the people who need it, to ensure parents and families feel involved in the process from the start and to help families feel confident in understanding and supporting their child’s communication development alongside specialist support.
More About Me
When I’m not working, life is usually pretty hectic with my three small children!
I love being outdoors, whether that’s going for a long walk or braving a dip in the sea. I’m also always up for a good chat over a cup of coffee!
Being a parent has given me an even greater appreciation of how busy and unpredictable family life can be. I know that the best advice is often the advice that feels manageable and works for your family.
Qualifications & Professional Memberships
Postgraduate Diploma in Speech and Language Therapy, City University London (2015)
Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Member of the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)