About Joel

Joel Calderon is a speech-language pathology assistant with Blossoming Minds Therapy, bringing a dynamic and diverse professional background to the practice. He holds an Emergency Medical Technology certificate from Glendale Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Northern Arizona University, and most recently earned an Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) graduate certificate from the University of Colorado, at Boulder.

Throughout his varied career, Joel has worked as an EMT-ocean rescue lifeguard, outdoor education and recreation instructor, and summer surf camp counselor in San Diego. He later served as a high-needs behavioral coach for at-risk youth, a Registered Behavior Technician supporting children on the autism spectrum, and a paraprofessional at an inner-city all-girls school. Across these roles, Joel consistently gravitated toward supporting communication, connection, and personal growth—naturally paving his path toward the field of speech-language pathology.

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Since joining Blossoming Minds Therapy, Joel has been passionate about applying his unique blend of experiences to help children develop their speech, language, and social communication skills. His background in emergency response, education, and behavioral support informs his adaptable, client-centered approach to therapy, allowing him to meet each client where they are and help them build confidence in their voice.

Outside of his work as an SLPA, Joel enjoys exploring the outdoors, staying active, and continuing to seek new opportunities for personal and professional growth.