WELCOME TO

SPEAK READ SHINE

I'm Lydia Porter, an Orton-Gillingham certified speech-language pathologist who supports children, teens and young adults. I believe learners do their best when they feel seen, supported and celebrated.

Through individualized, evidence-based speech, language and literacy support, I help learners become stronger communicators, more confident readers and spellers, and support them in building lasting self-trust that extends beyond our sessions.

I offer in-person services in Halifax and virtual services across Nova Scotia.

WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE SPEAK READ SHINE

  • Orton-Gillingham certified through the Scottish Rite Learning Centre for Children in Dartmouth

  • Reading Simplified certified

  • Currently completing certification in Evidence Based Literacy Instruction (EBLI)

  • 8 years experience supporting children, teens and young adults in the Halifax Regional Centre for Education (HRCE)

  • I believe meaningful learning is built on strong relationships. That is why, alongside my training and expertise, I take the time to get to know every learner, building the trust that helps learning flourish

  • Many extended health benefit plans provide coverage for speech-language pathology services

  • Registered speech-language pathologist with the Nova Scotia College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists (NSCASLP)

  • Member of Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)

DOES THIS SOUND LIKE YOUR CHILD?

  • Reading, writing or homework often leads to frustration, tears or shutting down

  • Avoids reading, writing, homework, or other school related tasks because they feel overwhelmed

  • Has a diagnosis of a learning disability in reading or writing, including dyslexia

  • Struggles to remember letters, sounds, spelling patterns, or frequently guesses at words when reading

  • Is reading, spelling, or writing below grade-level expectations difficult for others to understand due to sound substitutions

  • Struggles to understand language, directions, questions, or classroom instruction

  • Has difficulty expressing ideas clearly in speech or writing

DOES THIS SOUND LIKE YOU?

  • Feeling overwhelmed trying to support your child at home

  • Unsure whether your concerns are something your child will outgrow or a sign that additional support may be needed

  • Your child has a recent diagnosis of a learning disability in reading or writing, including dyslexia, and you're unsure what the next steps should be

  • Trying different strategies but not seeing the progress you had hoped for

  • Receiving mixed messages from school or other professionals

  • Worried your child is falling behind or losing confidence

  • Looking for clear structured, evidence-based guidance and a plan moving forward

WHAT FAMILIES ARE SAYING

Here are a few reflections from families I have had the privilege of supporting:

“Lydia consistently goes above and beyond. She thoughtfully tailors each session to meet multiple goals, incorporates fidgets and game breaks to keep learning engaging, and always takes the time to celebrate my daughter’s achievements. Her sessions are so enjoyable that my younger daughter constantly asks to watch her big sister’s sessions, and eventually convinced me to enroll her as well."

—Tasha, parent of Olivia

'"Lydia is really nice. She makes me feel good and safe. I trust her and she's just a really good person. I'm better with reading but I love spending time with her too. I just think you would have a really nice time with her because I do."

— Olivia, grade 3 student

“We were so fortunate to have Lydia's support! She quickly recognized my son's strengths and identified his specific areas for growth. Lydia ensured he was both challenged and supported, which kept him engaged. Beyond the academics, she took the time to build a true relationship with him, understanding what works for him not just as a student, but as a teenager. As a result, my son saw significant growth. We are incredibly grateful for her support and highly recommend her!"

— Tina, Parent of grade 10 student

"Having worked twice a week with Lydia our daughter’s confidence and grades have improved significantly.  She looks forward to her sessions because Lydia made learning fun and interesting.  Lydia has a warm, wholehearted approach with her students making them at ease to learn and enjoy the sessions.  Based on Lydia’s qualities we would not hesitate to recommend her."

— Jackie, Parent of grade 11 student

QUESTIONS FROM FAMILIES

If you’re unsure whether your child may benefit from support, you're not alone. Here are answers to some of the questions families ask most often.

Do I need a referral?

No. You do not need a referral to access services. If you are wondering whether services may be a good fit for your child, I invite you to book a free consultation so we can connect, learn more about your child, and answer any questions you may have.

Are your services covered by insurance?

Many families are able to access reimbursement for services through the Speech-Language Pathology coverage included in their extended health benefits. Coverage varies by provider and plan, so I recommend checking with your insurance provider directly for details.

Do you offer direct billing?

Yes. I offer direct billing whenever it is available through your insurance provider.

Does my child need a diagnosis of dyslexia or a learning disability to receive literacy support?

No. A formal diagnosis is not required to receive literacy support.

Many children benefit from intervention because they are finding reading, spelling, or writing difficult, whether or not they have a diagnosis. One of the things I have learned over the years is that children often benefit most when support begins as soon as concerns arise. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference and help prevent frustration, avoidance, and loss of confidence from becoming bigger challenges over time.

How is literacy intervention with a speech-language pathologist different from other literacy services?

Both tutors and speech-language pathologists can play an important role in supporting literacy development. As a speech-language pathologist, I have specialized training in speech, language, and literacy, which allows me to consider the broader communication and learning skills that may be impacting a child’s progress.

For example, difficulties with reading and spelling can sometimes be connected to underlying language skills, sound awareness, vocabulary, comprehension, or other aspects of communication. My training allows me to look at the whole picture when planning intervention.

Do you work with children who have ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental language disorder (DLD), autism, or global developmental delays?

Yes. I have experience supporting children with a wide range of learning, communication, and developmental profiles. Therapy is always individualized and designed to build on each child’s strengths while addressing their specific areas of need.

EVERY LEARNER IS UNIQUE

Every child is different, and so is every family's journey. This complimentary 20-minute consultation is an opportunity to tell me about your child, share your concerns, ask questions, and discuss your child's strengths and needs. Together we will be able to explore how I may be able to help and whether Speak Read Shine is the right fit for your child and family.

  • A better understanding of how I may be able to support your child

  • Answers to your questions

  • A personalized recommendation for next steps

  • Greater clarity and confidence moving forward

REQUEST A CONSULT WITH LYDIA

Share a few details and we will follow up within one business day to confirm your time.

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