Louisa Ferrara-Gonzalez

Dr. Louisa Ferrara-Gonzalez, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMCT is an internationally recognized leader in the field of neonatal and developmental care. She has over 15 years of clinical experience working with neonates, medically fragile infants, and children with a myriad of complex medical/developmental needs. She started her career as a Clinical Specialist and Manager of a level III NICU Feeding and Pediatric Feeding Program at NYU Langone Hospital Long Island.

In 2019 she transitioned to a research role at NYU and managed their NICU Dysphagia Research Team. Dr. Louisa is an active researcher investigating strategies to improve the care provided to infants with complex medical, developmental and feeding needs. She has published her research in high-standing, peer-reviewed journals; and in 2021 was awarded the Excellence in Research Award from the National Association of Neonatal Therapists.

Dr. Louisa has worked in academia as a faculty professor, and in industry as a Chief Clinical Officer (CCO) at Innara Health, and Manager of Clinical Operations for the NICU Portfolio at Cardinal Health. Dr. Louisa has run a successful Private Practice since 2009, and has recently expanded her business model to be a multi-specialist, multi--state practice where she strives to provide highly specialized care to infants and families in need, especially those discharged from the NICU, ICU and/or CVICU.

Dr. Louisa is double board certified as a specialist in swallowing and swallowing disorders and as a certified neonatal therapist. She is a certified lactation counselor, certified neonatal touch and massage-certified therapist and holds certification as a trauma-informed professional.

Drawing from her knowledge of healthcare, research, academia, industry, business and entrepreneurial spaces, Dr. Louisa has developed a unique perspective and an impressive aptitude that sets her apart from other professionals. Having been an invited speaker for countless education presentations over the last 12 years, Dr. Louisa has created a singular presentation style that is described as being highly informative, engaging, entertaining and thought provoking. She is now an internationally sought out speaker on all topics related to neonatal and pediatric development and disorders; parent advocacy; as well as topics related to leadership, personal growth, healthcare worker wellness, teamwork, trauma-informed care, trust and making mistakes. She highlights evidence-based facts, creates artistically aesthetic presentations, and is sure to enrapture and impress your audience while providing valuable information to serve the greater good for infants, families and professionals alike.