NVRH Speech-Language Pathology Welcomes New Provider

ST. JOHNSBURY, Vt. (February 12, 2024) – Speech-Language Pathologist Rita-Mary Sweeney, MS, CCC-SLP joins the Speech-Language department at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH).

With over 10 years of experience treating adults and adolescents with communication, voice, cognitive and swallowing disorders, Sweeney specializes in cognitive-communication disorders, concussion/TBI, post stroke, voice disorders, post-COVID syndrome, ADHD, executive functioning impairment and swallowing disorders.

Sweeney received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of New Hampshire in 2011 and her Master of Science degree from University of New Hampshire in 2013. Prior to joining NVRH, Sweeney served as the Speech-Language Pathology Supervisor at Mass General Brigham Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, NH. There she oversaw a team of 9 Speech-Language Pathologists while also maintaining a personal caseload.

Sweeney believes that communication is the essence of life.

“When someone is unable to express themselves, whether from a stroke or head injury or surgery, they often lose the ability to connect with other people,” she said. “I can’t think of anything more important in this world right now than helping people connect with one another.”

The Speech-Language Pathology department at NVRH provides services to inpatients and outpatients suffering from disorders related to language, voice, articulation, stuttering, swallowing laryngectomy and cognitive retraining for patients with head injuries and other neurological impairments.

“It is very exciting to see our program grow and to welcome Rita to our team,” Speech-Language Pathology Practice Operations Director Sarah Winans said. “Rita brings a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience. And, because we can offer greater access now, we look forward to sharing these important services with patients in our community.”

As someone who enjoys hiking and back country skiing, swapping the seacoast for mountains just made sense to Sweeney.

“I recently relocated to Vermont from the New Hampshire seacoast with the goal of being able to spend more time in the mountains,” Sweeney said. “I was drawn to NVRH, as there is a clear focus on patient care as well as employee wellness. It’s a great culture and community.”

For a referral to Speech-Language Pathology at NVRH, call your primary care provider today.