Zahra Sheikh

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) Speech & Language Therapy, MSc Autism

Specialisms

Paediatrics: Learning Difficulties, Developmental Language Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, ASD.

Introduction

I am a Speech and Language therapist practising since 2018. I have worked in diverse settings including NHS clinics, early years, mainstream primary, and special schools, autism spectrum disorders (ASD) resource units and social and emotional mental health (SEMH) schools. I have experience with early years, dysfluency, developmental language disorders (DLD), ASD, ADHD, learning disability (LD), and profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), working with clients from various backgrounds and cultures.

In my current role at a specialist school for students with multisensory impairments, I conduct in-depth formal assessments and provide evidence-based interventions for children with SLCN, Autism, PMLD, and Multi-sensory Impairments. I write comprehensive reports for education, health, and care plans, manage large caseloads, and collaborate with parents, teachers, and professionals to create holistic, functional targets. I offer training to parents, teachers, and teaching assistants on various interventions and theories, including training on swallowing management.

I use both formal and informal assessment methods, including Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF) Preschool, CELF-4, CELF-5, Reynell Developmental Language Scale and informal assessments such as play and observations. My therapy is evidence-based and motivating, adapting interventions to meet the varying needs of my clients.

I conduct comprehensive assessments for children and young people with dysphagia, SEMH, ASD, multisensory impairments, and comprehensive reports. I am committed to professional development, I regularly attend training sessions, journal clubs, and stay updated with the latest research. I excel in building rapport with clients, families, and colleagues, providing person-centered care.

I accept instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors and insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.