Why I do this….

I’m Susannah Burden, a Specialist Speech and Language Therapist, Certified Auditory Verbal Therapist, founder of the CONNECT Framework® and author of Connect First.

I have worked with children, young people and families for over 18 years, supporting communication through connection, co-regulation and everyday life. My approach is practical, neurodiversity-affirming and grounded in the belief that communication grows best when children feel safe, understood and genuinely connected to the people around them.

Over the years, my work has moved beyond traditional “table-top therapy” and towards supporting communication within real-life moments — relationships, routines, play, emotional regulation and shared experiences. I work closely with parents, schools and professionals to create support that feels meaningful, achievable and sustainable over time.

Alongside my clinical work, I provide training, mentoring and consultancy for parents, therapists, schools and organisations across the UK. I have presented and collaborated internationally, including work across the USA and Europe, and am passionate about helping adults feel more confident in understanding and supporting the children they work with or care for.

The CONNECT Framework® grew from years of clinical experience, reflection and collaboration with families. It brings together connection-first, evidence-informed approaches to communication support in a way that feels practical, respectful and adaptable to real life.

At the heart of my work is a simple belief: communication is not built through pressure or performance, but through connection, understanding and emotionally safe relationships.

Qualifications & Professional Memberships

• BSc (Hons) Speech & Language Therapy – De Montfort University
• PgCert Hearing & Development – Aston University
• PgDip Auditory Verbal Therapy – Aston University
• LSLS Cert AVT® – AG Bell Academy, Washington DC
• HCPC Registered
• RCSLT Member
• ASLTIP Member

 I help children and young people to develop strong communication and self advocacy skills so they can thrive in their everyday lives both socially and academically. I am a Listening and Spoken Language Specialist, Certified Auditory Verbal Therapist as well as a Speech and Language Therapist.  Please contact me to find out more.

I have been a professional mentor and coach for the past 10 years.  I have presented nationally and internationally and am delighted to offer one to one training or group workshop training to professionals working with your child. Click here to find out more

I believe that we all learn best when having fun.   I'm passionate about helping children and young people to reach their full potential.  My sessions are individualised, functional and play based. They can range from making chocolate crispy cakes, playing with play doh or playmobil, kicking a football around or arts and crafts. Whatever your child or young person enjoys and is motivated by -that’s what we’ll do!   The aim is that learning  will seamlessly carry over into your day to day life to accelerate progress and strengthen your bond with your child or young person.