Dr. Dana Surena-Mattson began her journey into healthcare with an early dream of becoming a pediatric neurosurgeon. However, her fascination with the mechanics behind communication, human behavior/physiology, and the performing arts led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in Drama and Anthropology from Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania (1992). Classically trained in operatic voice under the esteemed Romayne Bridgett, she developed a deep understanding of vocal physiology, vocal pedagogy, resonance, and breath control, principles that would later shape her distinctive approach to clinical practice and voice rehabilitation.

   She went on to complete a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at New York University in 1997, followed by advanced certifications as a trained Orofacial Myologist, Bridge Level PROMPT clinician, and Hanen-certified therapist. Dr. Surena-Mattson also pursued extensive postgraduate training in biodynamic manual therapy and deep-tissue manual therapy, expanding her ability to address the interrelationship between structure, muscle tone, and function. Her blend of biomechanical precision and manual therapeutic expertise defines her holistic approach to oral and facial rehabilitation.

   Dr. Surena-Mattson completed her Clinical Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions on October 2, 2025, with a concentration in pre-habilitative sensory-motor therapy for newborns diagnosed with ankyloglossia. Her doctoral research evaluated the efficacy of functional oral-motor intervention as a conservative treatment approach that supports early neuromuscular development and may reduce the need for surgical intervention. As part of this work, she developed and investigated the Functional Oral Sensory-Motor Protocol (FOSMP) for infants aged 0–3 months with ankyloglossia. Findings from the study demonstrated measurable improvements in tongue elevation, oral rest posture, feeding efficiency, longer sleep cycles, and caregiver-reported comfort. These results underscore the importance of combining quantitative analysis with qualitative clinical observation and caregiver feedback, reinforcing her dedication to translating evidence-based research into practical, patient-centered care.

   With nearly three decades of experience, Dr. Surena-Mattson is known for her work with patients across the lifespan who present with oral sensory-motor and oral muscle-based disorders. Her areas of specialization include feeding, swallowing, breathing, orofacial myofunctional disorders, articulation, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, voice, and oral habit elimination. She is recognized for her evidence-informed, function-first approach that integrates clinical science with hands-on therapeutic artistry.

 Her methodology combines sensory-motor biomechanics with biodynamic and deep-tissue manual therapy, focusing on neuromuscular re-education, oral-facial symmetry, breath coordination, and postural alignment. This integrative model supports both functional efficiency and long-term craniofacial stability. As a PROMPT clinician, Dr. Surena-Mattson applies a tactile-kinesthetic technique that uses touch cues to a patient’s articulators, the jaw, tongue, and lips, to guide them through targeted words, phrases, or sentences. The method develops motor control and precise oral muscular movements while reducing inefficient patterns such as jaw sliding and inadequate lip rounding, helping patients achieve clarity, balance, and endurance in speech production.

   Dr. Surena-Mattson believes that making a difference in the lives of others is the most gratifying aspect of her career. She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams that include physicians, ENTs, orthodontists, cranio-osteopaths, oral surgeons, dentists, physical and occupational therapists, gastroenterologists, nutritionists, psychologists, respiratory specialists, social workers, special educators, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) teams to develop comprehensive and individualized treatment plans. Her work with ABA professionals includes creating formal and informal programs for children on the autism spectrum, ensuring that functional oral-motor and articulation goals align with behavioral objectives.

   As a certified orofacial myologist, Dr. Surena-Mattson specializes in neuromuscular re-patterning of the oral and facial muscles and provides manual biodynamic therapy for newborns, children, and adults. Her clinical expertise extends to individuals with chromosomal, neuromuscular, and craniofacial conditions such as Down syndrome, multiple sclerosis, Bell’s palsy, dysarthria, dyspraxia, and muscle tension dysphonia. Her integrative work continues to redefine the boundaries between traditional speech-language pathology and advanced orofacial therapy.

   Fluent in English, French, and Haitian Creole, Dr. Surena-Mattson brings a unique dimension to her work as both clinician and artist. A classically trained opera singer, she integrates manual voice therapy and motor-biodynamic techniques to support professional voice users and individuals with laryngeal pathology. Her career reflects the seamless harmony between art and science, each informing the other in her mission to restore function, promote healing, and elevate the human voice in all its forms.

  A sought-after specialist in her field, Dr. Surena-Mattson is known not only for her technical expertise but also for her compassion and patient-centered philosophy. Her patients often describe her as deeply invested, passionate, and exceptionally skilled.