Marla M Kovatch
Assistant Professor of Practice
mkovatch@marywood.edu
Communictn Sciences & Disordrs
570-348-6211 x2259Courses taught:
Introductory Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology CSD-468AFluency Disorders CSD-508
Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology A CSD-516A
Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology B CSD-516B
Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology C CSD-516C
Diagnostic Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology CSD-521
I am Marla Kovatch, an Assistant Professor of Practice in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Marywood University. With a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Maine, Orono, and a Bachelor’s in Communication Disorders from Marywood University, I bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to my role.
I have earned several professional credentials, including Advanced Certification as an Autism Specialist through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), and I am recognized as an Ally of Stuttering SLP and an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Ally. Additionally, I am a Lingraphica Certified Technology Specialist. I also hold a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate and have achieved ATIXA Level Two Investigator status.
What I love most about speech pathology is that it’s an ever-evolving field, which means learning never stops. Effective communication is essential for success in all areas of life—whether in relationships, at work or as a global citizen. Helping individuals find their unique way of communicating is at the heart of what I do. The joy I find in seeing clients and students thrive, and the profound impact of their progress, makes my work incredibly rewarding.
My career has been a rich tapestry of experiences. I have had the opportunity to work in a wide range of settings, where I have been involved in the prevention, assessment, and diagnosis of communication disorders. My professional journey includes roles in hospitals, nursing and residential care facilities, public and private schools, outpatient clinics, private practice, and now, at the university level.
At Marywood, I remain deeply committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment where future speech-language pathologists can thrive. My passion for speech pathology and my dedication to nurturing the development of emerging professionals drive my work. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience, I aim to make our educational journey both engaging and impactful. Together, we will continue to advance our understanding of effective communication and prepare the next generation of skilled practitioners to make a meaningful difference in the field.
Ramachandra, V., Trezza, G., Harrison, F., LaTorre, V., Castells, C., & Kovatch, M. (2016). Cross-modal association in aphasia: Theoretical and clinical implications. Paper presentation at the 2016 ASHA Convention, Philadelphia, PA.
I have earned several professional credentials, including Advanced Certification as an Autism Specialist through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), and I am recognized as an Ally of Stuttering SLP and an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Ally. Additionally, I am a Lingraphica Certified Technology Specialist. I also hold a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate and have achieved ATIXA Level Two Investigator status.
What I love most about speech pathology is that it’s an ever-evolving field, which means learning never stops. Effective communication is essential for success in all areas of life—whether in relationships, at work or as a global citizen. Helping individuals find their unique way of communicating is at the heart of what I do. The joy I find in seeing clients and students thrive, and the profound impact of their progress, makes my work incredibly rewarding.
My career has been a rich tapestry of experiences. I have had the opportunity to work in a wide range of settings, where I have been involved in the prevention, assessment, and diagnosis of communication disorders. My professional journey includes roles in hospitals, nursing and residential care facilities, public and private schools, outpatient clinics, private practice, and now, at the university level.
At Marywood, I remain deeply committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment where future speech-language pathologists can thrive. My passion for speech pathology and my dedication to nurturing the development of emerging professionals drive my work. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience, I aim to make our educational journey both engaging and impactful. Together, we will continue to advance our understanding of effective communication and prepare the next generation of skilled practitioners to make a meaningful difference in the field.
Presentations and Publications
Clarke, Kaitlyn, Williams, Diane, Kovatch, Marla, Verdi, Marissa, & Olsen, Emily (2022). Language and Behavioral Profiles Per Type of AAC System for Pediatric Psychiatric Inpatients With ASD. Poster presentation at the 2022 ASHA Convention, New Orleans, LA.Ramachandra, V., Trezza, G., Harrison, F., LaTorre, V., Castells, C., & Kovatch, M. (2016). Cross-modal association in aphasia: Theoretical and clinical implications. Paper presentation at the 2016 ASHA Convention, Philadelphia, PA.