Meet Tonya Batiste M.Ed.,CCC-SLP | Speech-Language Pathologist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tonya Batiste M.Ed.,CCC-SLP and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tonya, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it. Maya Angelou

Success isn’t based on how much money you make, or the material things people have. To me, Success is being happy with yourself and living a balanced life doing things you love to do. Success is setting goals for yourself whether its personal, business, or family. Prioritizing your goals developing good habits which takes time and consistency. And as life happens, you may fail a few times, learn from your mistakes which will also lead to success. You must be okay with adjusting those goals because everything doesn’t always go as planned. At times, you may have to take chances which is scary and intimidating and sometimes those risk will ultimately lead to success.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am a Speech-Language Pathologist and the proud owner of Speech Time PLLC. My team and I provide speech therapy services to the pediatric population in the greater Houston Area. We specialize in treating kids in the pediatric population ages 1-17 who have been diagnosed with a disorder that may hinder or delay certain speech development.

Minorities only make up a modest 8% of Speech-Language Pathologist and I am proud to say that I am a part of the 8%; however, I would like to see more minorities get into the field each year so that one day the 8% will meet or exceed fifty percent. I am excited to provide services to children to help them communicate
whether it’s with words, signs, or a communication device. It’s very rewarding when a child no longer requires therapy or when a parent acknowledges how speech
therapy has helped their child communication skills.

Not to sound cliché, but I am where I am today due to a lot of sacrifice and hard work. Being an entrepreneur is not easy. There is no time clock, so the work never ends but finding balance is key. This was something I struggled with for a long time. So much of my time was going towards the business and I lacked in other areas of
my life. Although it’s still a challenging at times, I’ve learned to take care of myself and my mental state first and foremost. The ugly truth is owning any business can be overwhelming…it’s a part of the game. I keep this theory embedded in my subconscious so that when overwhelming times occur, I know that it’s time to take a mental break. Some mental breaks are as simple as practicing breathing exercises at my desk. But sometimes I full out pamper myself. It’s these little caveats that give me the strength to fight another day.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m vegan so I’ll take them to one of my favorite places to eat Lindiana’s Southern Vegan Kitchen, Wisdom Vegan Bakery & Cafe, or Sunshine’s Health Food Store & Vegetarian Deli. To see a nice view of Houston, we will go to POST Houston to hang out and grab something to eat from one of the restaurant located inside. Later, we will go for drinks at Faces Ultra Lounge.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My office manager Marlyn is an essential part of Speech Time. She has been with me for nine years. She helps keep things running smoothly. I must also shoutout my husband, Dominick. My first-born son was only three months old when I decided to quit my job and start my business. The amount of uncertainty and fear about my decision could not be measured but my husband Dominick was there encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone. He continues to be a sound ear 14 years later. I truly appreciate him for all his love, guidance, and support all these years.

Website: www.speechtime.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speechtime07

Image Credits
Picture credit is not needed