2025 REHABILITATION COMPANY OF THE YEAR NOMINEE

Michelle Cohen & Associates

Nominated For: REHABILITATION COMPANY OF THE YEAR

For over 25 years, Michelle Cohen & Associates (MCA) has been a leader in community-based speech-language pathology services for individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI) and other complex communication needs. Founded with the goal of delivering therapy in meaningful, real-life contexts, MCA works directly with clients in their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities, partnering with the people and environments that matter most in their lives.

Our skilled and compassionate team of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Communicative Disorders Assistants (CDAs) supports children, adolescents, and adults with needs ranging from mild ABI/concussion to complex cognitive-communication disorders requiring augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) or errorless learning approaches.

Operating across the GTA, Northumberland, Barrie, Lindsay, Peterborough, Belleville, Kingston, Thunder Bay, Niagara Region, and more, MCA provides accessible, culturally sensitive, client-centered interventions that are grounded in evidence and focused on real-world success.

Our Philosophy

Communication is key to quality of life
Speech, language, swallowing, communication, and cognitive skills are central to independence, productivity, confidence, and social participation. We work with clients to reduce limitations and maximize life participation, empowerment, and self-esteem.

Each client is unique
We customize rehabilitation programs to meet individual needs, integrating therapy into the daily activities and contexts that are most meaningful for each person.

Results matter
We stay current with research, use innovative approaches and technology, and continuously evaluate our work to ensure clients develop practical skills, strategies, and confidence for everyday success.

Collaboration is essential
We work closely with interdisciplinary rehab teams, educators, employers, insurers, and legal professionals to achieve the best outcomes for clients.

Professional and community contributions

• MCA clinicians have served on OSLA’s Auto Insurance and ABI Interest Groups since their inception.
• We mentor SLP students and new graduates, present at workshops and conferences, and contribute to professional journals — including publishing original research (e.g., Errorless learning of functional life skills…, Neuropsychological Rehabilitation, 2010).
• We host MCA Education Days, where clients and families are both presenters and attendees, fostering inspiration, peer support, and community connection.
• MCA supports the ABI community through regular sponsorship of conferences, events, and advocacy initiatives, and holds active memberships in OBIA and the Ontario Rehab Alliance (ORA).

Why We Stand Out

• Strong Advocacy: Ensuring clients have the communication tools and supports they need to succeed in school, work, family life, and community participation.
• Specialized Expertise: Over 25 years focused on ABI-related speech-language pathology, from mild concussion to complex cognitive-communication needs.
• Evidence-Based, Contextualized Care: Therapy is integrated into clients’ real-life environments for maximum impact.
• Cultural Responsiveness: Services are tailored to each client’s values, culture, and life context.
• Leadership in the Field: Ongoing mentorship, professional education, and active participation in provincial advocacy and policy initiatives.

Supporting Testimonials

Client – ABI Survivor
“Before MCA, I struggled to communicate with my friends and family. Their team didn’t just teach me skills — they practiced with me in real situations, so I could succeed in everyday life. I feel confident again.”

Family Member – Parent of Pediatric Client
“My daughter’s therapy was tailored to her school life, hobbies, and friendships. She’s not only speaking more clearly, but she’s excited to use her voice. The impact has been incredible.”

Rehabilitation Partner – Colleague
“MCA’s contextualized approach bridges the gap between therapy and real-world participation. Their work is essential for brain injury clients transitioning back into daily life.”

“For over 25 years, Michelle Cohen & Associates has been giving Ontarians back their voices — and helping them use them with confidence in the moments that matter most.”