Our Team

Over the last decade, I've had the privilege of working with children, families, and educators in a variety of settings, first as a teacher and later as a Speech-Language Pathologist. After completing my Master’s of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Alberta, I worked in the Greater Saskatoon Catholic School division before spending five years as the in-house Speech-Language Pathologist with Saskatoon Tribal Council. Today, I lead a team of dedicated Speech-Language Pathologists and Speech-Language Pathology Assistants committed to helping children and youth become confident communicators.

I believe that meaningful growth happens when people feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether I'm supporting a child, collaborating with a family, or mentoring a member of my team, my approach is rooted in curiosity, connection, and respect for each person's unique strengths.

When I'm not working, you'll find me writing middle-grade fantasy novels, baking with my daughters, playing volleyball, or chasing after my Cavapoo, Chai.

Born and raised in Saskatoon, I completed my undergraduate degree in Linguistics at the University of Saskatchewan before earning my Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Minot State University. I have experience providing speech-language services in school, clinic, and home-based settings and am a registered provider on the Government of Saskatchewan's Registry of Autism Service Providers.

My clinical interests include autism, early language development, executive functioning, and speech sound disorders. I have also completed professional development in Hanen, DTTC, PECS, Hodson's Cycles Approach, and Natural Language Acquisition/Gestalt Language Processing. I lean toward a play-based, child-led, neurodiversity-affirming approach whenever possible and love creating sessions where children can laugh, play, and make real progress in ways that work best for them.

Outside of work, you'll find me spending time with my husband and twin toddlers, reading a good book, or enjoying the outdoors.

Book Brittany

Originally from Englefeld Sk, I earned my Bachelor of Arts High Honours Degree with a major in Linguistics and minor in Psychology from the University of Saskatchewan in June 2019. I later obtained my Master's of Science in Communication Disorders from the University of Alberta in November 2021 and have worked in preschool, school, and clinical settings across Saskatchewan.

I enjoy working with children from the ages of 2-17 years old and have a special interest in supporting children with speech, language, phonological awareness, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) goals. In addition, I've completed the Hanen program 'Learning Language and Loving It'.

I value creating an inclusive environment, which allows students to feel confident to engage in their sessions. I believe that equipping students with the ability to understand and monitor their skills is an essential focus for success. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, spending time at the lake, and tending to my pet cats.

Hello! My name is Courtney, and I'm excited to be joining Howden Speech and Language this fall! Before pursuing Speech-Language Pathology, I worked as a Kindergarten and Prekindergarten teacher in the communities of Moosomin and Red Pheasant, where I discovered a passion for supporting children's communication. I received my Bachelor of Education from the University of Saskatchewan in 2009 and will graduate with my Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Alberta in fall 2026.

My primary interests include early language, school-age language and literacy, speech sound disorders, and social communication. I love working with children and partnering with families to help each child reach their communication goals. I strive to create a positive, engaging environment where children feel successful, supported, and motivated to learn.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my partner, Dean, and our two dogs, Macey and Kia.

Hi there! I'm Hannah. I received both my Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (2016) and my Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (2020) from the University of Alberta. My firsthand experience with speech therapy sparked my interest in the field. Since graduating, I've worked primarily with preschool-aged children and have a strong interest in fluency, speech sound disorders, and language delays.

I believe in empowering children to feel confident in themselves as learners and in their ability to try hard things and succeed. I take a client-centred, strengths-based approach to therapy, focusing on meaningful, functional goals that support each child's communication.

In my spare time, I enjoy cycling, skiing up hills, indoor climbing, and losing at the New York Times Mini games.

I was born and raised in Saskatoon and completed my undergraduate degree in Linguistics and Sociology at the University of Saskatchewan. As a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, I've worked primarily in school settings, where I've developed a special interest in supporting neurodivergent children, AAC users, and gestalt language processors.

I've completed professional development in several areas, including Meaningful Speech Programming AAC for Gestalt Language Processors, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, Bjorem Speech Childhood Apraxia of Speech Treatment, and Sensory for the SLP by Carrie Ebert. While I enjoy working with children of all ages, I especially love preschool and early intervention. I'm passionate about creating engaging activities and visuals that help children succeed while supporting families, teachers, and educational assistants with practical strategies they can use every day.

Outside of work, I enjoy fishing with my boyfriend, baking new recipes, and fixing my constantly broken laminator.

Hi! My name is Serenity. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, including three years of study in Psychology, which strengthened my understanding of child development, learning, and the importance of individualized care. As a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with Howden Speech and Language, I've had the opportunity to support children in First Nations preschools and schools, as well as at Eagle's Nest Youth Ranch.

I enjoy helping children build confidence and communication skills through engaging, meaningful activities while supporting families and educators along the way.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends, exploring local thrift stores, being outdoors, and making memories with my two dogs.

Contact Our Team

“We had Jenna Howden, Speech & Language Pathologist, come and do a presentation for the Educational Assistants at our school. The day was balanced to provide theory and practice. She went over the common errors children have, gave us a binder and explained how to go about setting up a speech and language therapy session. The presentation was very well organized, and most of all she made it fun! She provided hands on examples and games with demonstrations. We also used SLP students in our school to demonstrate and provide therapy. I would highly recommend Jenna!”

-Donna Myo
Special Education Teacher
Moosomin School

Our Speech-Language Team

Jenna Howden

Founder of Howden Speech and Language

Brittany Thomas

Shailynn Athmer

Courtney Neale

Hannah Sysak

Emma Peterson

Serenity Torgerson

A Team Approach to Communication Support

Testimonials

What Families and Community Partners Are Saying

Links

Contacts