As both a practicing speech pathologist and children's author, I believe that every voice matters, whether it whispers, shouts, signs, or stays beautifully silent. My work bridges the clinical world of evidence based practice with the profound power of storytelling to create meaningful change in how we understand and support communication.

My Core Beliefs

Communication is not one-size-fits-all.

I advocate for neurodivergent-affirming approaches that celebrate the many ways humans connect and express themselves. Through my clinical practice as Natasha 'Tash' Nester and my writing as Tash Howlett, I challenge traditional deficit based models in favour of strength based, relationship centered interventions.

Families are the first and most important communication partners.

My work empowers parents, carers, and educators with practical, play based tools that transform everyday moments into rich communication opportunities. I believe therapeutic support should enhance family connections, not replace them.

Stories have the power to heal and include.

Through children's books like Tiny Talkers and raw, honest picture books for adults, I create narratives that give voice to experiences often left unspoken, communication differences, grief, neurodivergence, and the complex beauty of raising children who see the world differently.

My Professional Stance

I stand firmly for accessible, inclusive communication support that:

Honours each child's unique developmental journey without pressure or clinical judgment

Provides families with evidence based tools wrapped in joy, play, and genuine connection

Challenges systems and attitudes that marginalise different ways of communicating

Creates space for both celebration and grief in the communication journey

My Promise

Whether I'm supporting families in clinical practice or crafting stories that speak for those who can't yet, don't always, or won't, my commitment remains constant: to help every person feel seen, heard, and celebrated exactly as they are. Because being heard isn't about volume; it's about being truly received.

We hear you.

We love you.

Exactly as you are.