MYOFUNCTIONAL SPOT CLINICAL TEAM

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Hello, my name is Dena Freedman-Muchnick and I am the Owner and Clinical Director of Myofunctional Spot and Lactation Spot which are located in Plantation, Florida. I am a Licensed Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) with over 25+ years of clinical experience as well as a Certified Lactation Consultant. I earned a Master's Degree in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University in 2000. Prior to that, I earned a Dual Bachelor's Degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) in 1997. 

I have maintained a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) for over 25+ years and I am a member of the International Association of Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing (IAPFS).  I am also a long standing member of the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM). The field of Speech Pathology is always evolving. I consider myself a lifelong learner as I consistently seek continued professional education and clinical growth so as to best serve my clients. 

Few people know exactly what a speech language pathologist does. We wear many hats in medical, academic and outpatient settings. I have worked as a Speech Language Pathologist in the areas of speech, language, voice, feeding & swallowing. I have practiced in various clinical settings including Miami Children's Hospital, Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Centers, Outpatient Clinics, Public and Private Schools from KG to 12th grade and in Private Practice. I have extensive experience with various populations and developmental/medical complexities that impact speech, language and feeding development from birth to adulthood. 

My expertise and passion lies in addressing Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) and the numerous symptomatic presentations in patients across the lifespan (from infancy through adulthood). I created Tiny Myo, a play-based Early Intervention Program for children ages 1-5+ that targets Speech, Feeding & Oral Motor skills and encourages Myofunctional Development.  Myofunctional Spot specializes in Oral Restrictions/Tongue Tie, Pre & Post Frenectomy, Tongue Thrust/Reverse Swallow, Sleep Disordered Breathing/Sleep Apnea, TMJ Pain & Dysfunction, Infant/Toddler Feeding, Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTS), Voice Disorders, Swallowing Dysfunction, Fluency/Stuttering & Articulation.

All Myofunctional Spot Clinicians are Licensed Speech Language Pathologists who specialize in treating Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs). We collaborate closely with a network of medical/academic professionals on a case by case basis to help improve client clinical outcomes successfully assisting clients in improving their orofacial function, leading to enhanced speech, sleep, eating, breathing and overall well-being. Our Myofunctional Assessment and Treatment Programs are provided in our Clinic and via Telehealth. We offer local home visits on a case by case basis.

As a Certified Lactation Consultant, I utilize my clinical experience on a private consultative basis to provide infant feeding support in helping to identify and remediate infant feeding issues such as Oral Restrictions (i.e., tongue ties or lip ties/TOTS) to help make breast and bottle feeding successful for mom and baby. I partner with many local Dentists and Pediatricians (as well as other pediatric healthcare providers) in providing professional training and education regarding speech/feeding development, as well as evidence based lactation resources to encourage appropriate identification of atypical speech, language and feeding development and/or red flags that would require further assessment. Additionally, I provide parental education and private prenatal breastfeeding classes within the community. Early identification and remediation of infant oral motor or feeding dysfunction is critical in oral motor development as it encourages the proper movement of the tongue and lips, helping to prevent many speech and feeding issues further down the road. 

I live in Parkland, FL with my amazing husband, two teenage "babies" and three doodle fur babies. In my free time, I enjoy visiting local farmer's markets, practicing yoga, cooking organic gluten/dairy free meals, harmonizing to broadway music with my husband and daughter, thrift shopping, traveling and chasing the most beautiful sunsets.

I am so grateful to be doing what I absolutely love. I consider it a privilege to help each and every individual who allows me to assist in their speech, language, feeding development and be a part of their Myofunctional Team ♥️

Wherever these words find you, I hope that you are on the path to greater health. The body and brain are miraculous, as they are constantly regenerating themselves and capable of reprogramming, even in the later stages of life. I wish you the very best on your Myofunctional journey and am eager to offer my services to foster greater wellness in your life.

I look forward to meeting you!

Dena Freedman-Muchnick, M.S., CCC-SLP, CLC

Owner/Clinical Director

Speech Language Pathologist

Orofacial Myofunctional Specialist

Certified Lactation Consultant

Feeding/Swallowing Specialist

Gabrielle Fineman, ME.d., CCC-SLP, is an accomplished Speech-Language Pathologist who has been making a meaningful impact in the field for nearly a decade. With a diverse background and expertise spanning various age groups and communication challenges, our dedicated professional is committed to helping individuals find their voices and embrace effective communication. 

Gabrielle resides in Delray Beach with her husband and son. She earned a Master's Degree in Speech Language Pathology from Valdosta State University in 2018. Prior to that, she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of South Florida in 2015. Gabrielle spent several years building her clinical skills while working as a Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLP-A) prior to completing her Master's Degree.

Gabrielle, whose personal journey has led to a profound connection and passion in treating individuals with Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) and Feeding Disorders , has been a key clinical team member of Myofunctional Spot since its inception.

Gabrielle has helped launch our Tiny Myo Early Intervention Myofunctional Program within the South Florida community and has assisted numerous families throughout their Pre/Post Frenectomy journeys while providing Early Intervention in helping to nurture early feeding and myofunctional skills.

Gabrielle works with clients of all ages, addressing a wide spectrum of speech, feeding and myofunctional concerns. From articulation and language disorders to executive functioning deficits and pragmatics, her expertise encompasses a comprehensive range of communication challenges.

Furthermore, her dedication extends to the specialized areas of feeding and swallowing disorders, where she has skillfully guided clients toward improved oral function and a healthier relationship with food. Her passion for these crucial aspects of communication has been further deepened by her personal journey.

Throughout her fulfilling career, Gabrielle has displayed an unwavering commitment to her clients' well-being and progress. Her empathetic and client-centered approach has been instrumental in guiding individuals to overcome barriers and achieve their communication goals. She is known for tailoring her interventions to meet each client's unique needs, creating a supportive environment that fosters growth and confidence.

Gabrielle Fineman, ME.d., CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Orofacial Myofunctional Specialist

Feeding/Swallowing Specialist

  Michelle Messina M.S. CCC-SLP is a well experienced Speech-Language Pathologist who has been making a great impact in the field for over 24 years. She has a diverse background across all populations and she specializes in Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) across the lifespan. Michelle holds a Certificate of Compliance (CCC) through ASHA and is licensed in the State of Florida. She has practiced in various clinical settings such as schools, nursing homes, home health and private clinics. She has dedicated much of her career to working with clients who have varying medical and developmental complexities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, OMD, Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia), Stroke, Down Syndrome, Apraxia, Sensory Processing Disorder, Feeding Disorders and developmentally delayed toddlers through early intervention. Michelle works closely with infants struggling to feed at the breast or bottle and provides pre and post frenectomy support to clients of all ages who are undergoing a functional frenectomy. 

Michelle resides in Weston with her son and daughter. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Florida and she received her Master’s Degree at Florida International University in Speech Language Pathology.

Michelle’s has a deep passion for providing therapy to infants and toddlers, which emanates through her clinical research and therapeutic practice. Michelle has been an invaluable addition to Myofunctional Spot and we are grateful for the expertise and experience that she brings and applies to the families that she works with.

Michelle Messina M.S. CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Orofacial Myofunctional Specialist

Infant/Toddler Feeding Specialist

Jose Carias, M.S., CCC-SLP is a dedicated and compassionate Speech-Language Pathologist with specialized training in orofacial myofunctional therapy and a strong clinical focus on airway health and oral-motor function across the lifespan. His commitment to evidence-based care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and functional outcomes guides every aspect of his therapeutic approach.

Jose earned his Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Florida State University after completing post-baccalaureate studies at the University of Florida. His clinical training includes a medical internship at the Memorial Rehabilitation Institute, where he evaluated and treated patients with dysphagia, aphasia, cognitive-communication disorders, and motor speech challenges in both inpatient and outpatient settings. During this time, Jose conducted comprehensive bedside swallow assessments, participated in Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS), and developed individualized treatment plans for medically complex patients.

Under the mentorship of Dena Freedman-Muchnick, M.S., CCC-SLP, CLC, Jose continues to expand his expertise in myofunctional therapy with a focus on airway disorders, oral-motor dysfunction, and pre-/post-frenectomy care. He has a strong clinical interest in treating severe orofacial myofunctional disorders, including sleep-disordered breathing, TMJ dysfunction, reflux, and complex swallowing challenges. His holistic, patient-centered approach reflects a deep understanding of how structure and function influence feeding, breathing, and communication.

Jose lives in Pembroke Pines with his son and is passionate about empowering families through education and collaborative care. He is committed to delivering high-quality therapy that supports long-term success and enhances quality of life for children and adults alike.

Jose Carias M.S. CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Orofacial Myofunctional Specialist