We Help You Be You

Meet the Team

Mary Hernandez, M.A., CCC-SLP

Mary graduated with her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from San Diego State University. She specializes in bilingual/multilingual language development and disorders across the lifespan. She initially entered a research career studying patterns of language development in bilinguals and best practices for treatment. However, she moved into a clinical career to pursue her passion of providing bilingual/Spanish-speaking clients with equal opportunity for speech and language treatment. She opened Life Cycle to combine that passion of providing high quality care to Spanish-speaking people who are often overlooked with her aim to help people of all ages. 

Owner / Speech Therapy Program Director

Jillian McGarry, M.S., OTR/L

I am an occupational therapist with 10 years of experience whose passion is to facilitate growth and independence across the lifespan. I have experience covering all ages from early intervention to geriatrics in a multitude of settings including: acute care, school based, clinic, and home health. I enjoy meeting the client where they are and promoting their development of skills to aid in maximizing independence and quality of life. As a mom, I strive to provide practical tools for implementation throughout the day to facilitate the continued development of skills. I have a Bachelors of Science in psychology with a minor in special education from the University of Oregon and a Masters of Science in Occupational therapy from San Jose State University. 

Occupational Therapy Program Director

Ana Trapp

I am a Southern California native with a love for our sandy beaches, proximity to snow, and family all around us. My family likes to enjoy the outdoors and everything that San Diego has to offer.
I have been working in the medical field for over sixteen years now, and I am so happy to have found a home at Life Cycle Speech Therapy.

Practice Manager

Sara Orellana

Hi, my name is Sara Orellana. I am originally from the San Francisco Bay Area. I enjoy spending my free time outdoors- whether it’s hiking, exploring new trails, or just soaking up the California sunshine. I am passionate about creating a positive workplace culture where people feel valued and empowered to do their best work.

Administrative Assistant

  • Dalia Garcia, Ph.D. CCC-SLP

    Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist

    Hi, I’m Dalia, a current clinical fellow. I have developed novel assessment tools designed for bilinguals. As a Spanish-English bilingual myself, I am passionate about providing services in both languages. I am especially interested in working with older populations and people with cognitive-linguistic impairments. In my free time, I enjoy hiking with my dog and crocheting.

  • Anelle Sanchez, M.S., CF-SLP

    Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist

    Hi there! I’m Anelle, I’m a speech-language pathologist who loves working with children and adults to help cultivate confident communicators. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders from California Baptist University and Emerson College, respectively. As a bilingual SLP, I am committed to providing inclusive, culturally sensitive care that respects and values the diversity of each client and their family.

    During my free-time, I’m usually enjoying the San Diego beaches, exploring new coffee shops, or reading.

  • Ashley Leone, M.S., CCC-SLP

    Speech-Language Pathologist

    North County Supervisor

    I’m a Speech-Language Pathologist with a passion for helping children strengthen their communication abilities. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from San Diego State University, I’m dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of my clients. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, cooking, and spending time at the beach to recharge.

  • Meredith Adams, M.S. CF-SLP

    Speech-Language Pathologist

    Hi everyone! I'm a speech-language pathologist CF who is passionate about serving all ages. My top priority is creating a space where my clients feel safe and encouraged.  I completed my Bachelor's in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from Purdue University and my Master's in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Cincinnati. I love spending time with my family and friends, being outside, and picking up new hobbies. I am new to San Diego so I am very excited to explore and see all that is in store here!

  • Kalya Rodriguez, M.S., CF-SLP

    Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist

    Hi I'm a speech language pathologist with interests in early intervention and cognitive-communication rehabilitation. I’m passionate about partnering with families, creating supportive environments, and supporting functional, meaningful growth that truly impacts everyday life. Outside of work, I love photography, beach walks with my husband and our sassy pug Luna.

  • Gayle Dixon, COTA/L

    Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

    My name is Gayle Dixon and I am a COTA. I worked for school districts for several years prior to earning my certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. Since completing my OTA degree in 2021, I have gained experience in various settings, including school-based programs, early intervention, post-acute care, and home health. I enjoy using play-based strategies to facilitate growth and development in natural environments.

  • Elliot Phillips, COTA/L

    Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

    I’m excited to be a part of the early intervention community that helps support young kids and families. I really enjoy working in the pediatric setting, helping kids build skills through fun, purposeful play and connection. Outside of work, I love exploring the outdoors — especially the beach — and getting to know everything that San Diego has to offer!

Life Cycle's aims to facilitate an equitable treatment space which provides specialized care and advocacy for all patients across the lifespan. Every client is different. So to ensure the most effective treatment, each client will be paired with a therapist that specializes in their needs.

Offers Telehealth Appointments

Accepts Insurances

Accepting New Clients