Hello!
Hi, I'm Marie Axen, a speech-language pathologist, educator, and mom based in Northern Westchester, New York.
For more than 15 years, I've worked with children, teens, and families to support communication, language, literacy, executive functioning, social communication, and self-advocacy. I hold degrees from New York University and Northeastern University and am licensed in both New York, Connecticut, and California. In addition to my clinical work, I serve as an adjunct instructor and supervisor at Brooklyn College and Ithaca College, helping prepare the next generation of speech-language pathologists.
I am trained in The NeuroAffirm Therapy System and believe in neuroaffirming, strengths-based care that recognizes each child as a whole person—not a collection of challenges or diagnoses.
Whether we're working on language, executive functioning, articulation, or literacy, my goal is always the same: to understand the child in front of me, build meaningful relationships, and create practical strategies that support success at home, at school, and in everyday life.
My Story
If there's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that the most meaningful progress doesn't happen during the 45 minutes I spend with a child each week—it happens in the hundreds of moments between sessions.
Early in my career, I saw how powerful one-on-one therapy could be. But I also realized that lasting change comes when everyone around a child understands how to support them. That's why collaboration is at the heart of everything I do. I believe families deserve clear communication, practical strategies, and a true partner in the process. My clients quickly learn that I love sharing updates, celebrating wins, and sending home ideas that can be woven naturally into everyday life.
I take a whole-child approach to therapy. Communication doesn't exist in isolation, and neither do children. When I meet a family, I'm thinking about language, literacy, executive functioning, sensory needs, emotional well-being, school demands, family dynamics, and the unique strengths that make that child who they are. Understanding the bigger picture helps us create support that is meaningful, sustainable, and individualized.
I am also deeply committed to evidence-based practice. Truthfully, I can lose hours reading research articles, exploring new approaches, and diving into professional literature. My roles as an adjunct instructor and clinical supervisor at Brooklyn College and Ithaca College keep me connected to emerging research and constantly learning alongside students and colleagues. I love translating that knowledge into practical, real-world strategies that families can actually use.
Outside of work, I'm a mom to two young children, and becoming a parent has shaped me as a clinician in ways I never anticipated. I understand the busy schedules, the endless decisions, the worries, and the desire to help your child thrive while still enjoying family life. I know how much small, manageable strategies can change the rhythm of a day and reduce stress for everyone involved.
Anyone who knows me knows that I bring a lot of energy, curiosity, and optimism to my work. I genuinely love what I do. I wake up excited to tackle the day, connect with families, solve problems, and celebrate progress—whether it's a major breakthrough or a small victory that makes everyday life a little easier.
Supporting children and families is more than my profession; it's a privilege. I'm honored every time a family trusts me to be part of their journey.