ANDREA N. PLUSKOTA, MS, CCC/SLP

I always welcome and celebrate diversity. Personally, my immense circle of family and friends are a direct product of my unconditional love for all people despite social, cultural or ethnic differences. Professionally, I am devoted to helping all people effectively communicate, yet place special emphasis on serving and advocating for those who have been neglected, under-represented, and misunderstood due to racial, cultural, or linguistic barriers. As an African American, I have sometimes felt intimidated, invisible, or insecure in the presence of the European American “majority.” For some, these feelings could inhibit the ability to thrive; therefore, I intentionally create a welcoming and comforting home, office, and outlook to pay respect and build rapport with clients whose background and life experiences differ from mine. This position is vital to being successful in a “helping” profession and I do not take the charge lightly.