My Philosophy

I believe in family-centered, responsive, trust-based feeding. In the simplest terms, a child should lead the learning process and trust that adults will offer appropriate experiences to support him or her along the way. I also understand that each family’s mealtime experiences are unique, and a successful journey can look many different ways. I believe judgement has no place in this process.

My practice is informed by my training in the work of Suzanne Evans Morris, Marsha Dunn Klein (Get Permission Approach), Dr. Kay Toomey (SOS Approach), Jenny McGlothlin and Dr. Katya Rowell (STEPS Approach), and Ellyn Satter (Division of Responsibility).

Stephanie Cohen, M.A., CCC-SLP, CLC

Stephanie Cohen is a mother, speech-language pathologist, author, lecturer, and lactation counselor in private practice who has worked with children with complex medical needs and their families for more than 21 years. She has advanced training in feeding and swallowing disorders and specializes in working with the birth-5 population. Her mission is to empower each parent to be their child’s best teacher by supporting emotional connection and early learning.

Stephanie is a mentor, speaker, and consultant who supports students, clinicians in the field, and product designers. She is a co-founder and co-director of the Chicago Feeding Group, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports children with pediatric feeding disorder and their families and provides education to professionals. Stephanie is a co-founder of and senior instructor at The Get Permission Institute, the online home of The Get Permission Approach. Stephanie hosts workshops, presents to international audiences, and has been an invited speaker at Northwestern University and for the Illinois Early Intervention Training Program. Her work is also featured on www.speechpathology.com and www.occupationaltherapy.com, and TalkTools.com.

Stephanie has extensive experience with:

  • micro-premature and medically fragile infants
  • respiratory and cardiac conditions
  • nasogastric tube and g-tube use
  • food allergy and intolerance
  • FPIES
  • picky eating
  • Down syndrome
  • hearing/vision impairment
  • sensory integration dysfunction
  • neurological and genetic disorders
  • neuromuscular disorders and orthopedic abnormalities
  • FAS, IUDE
  • autism spectrum disorder
  • behavioral/emotional challenges
  • speech and language delays and disorders

Stephanie obtained her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science degrees from Northwestern University, holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and is licensed in the state of Illinois. She is a credentialed evaluator and provider in the Illinois Early Intervention program. Stephanie also is a certified lactation counselor..

Stephanie lives in Northbrook with her husband and does her best to follow her own advice when feeding her three children.

Questions? Email Stephanie