CBIS-AP Spotlight: Maggie Lockovich

Maggie Lockovich, MA, CCC-SLP/L, CBIS-AP, is a Speech Language Pathologist with over 25 years of experience working with children and adults with brain injury. In addition to her Certified Brain Injury Specialist-Advanced Practice certification, she holds certification in Special Education Supervision from the state of Pennsylvania. She is currently a team facilitator for the PA BrainSTEPS School Re-Entry Program, a nationally recognized initiative that supports students ages three to 21 as they transition back to school following a post-birth brain injury. Through consultation and collaboration with families, educators, and medical professionals, the program ensures that students receive the support they need to succeed academically and socially—at no cost to families.

Why have you chosen a career in brain injury?

Working with children and adults with brain injury has been an exceptional experience for me and has fostered a deep sense of purpose in my career and life. I have learned to see a person beyond their injury or diagnosis and to foster a sense of possibility rather than limitation. I have the privilege of being challenged and inspired daily by those whom I serve. Building meaningful connections with my clients and patients has helped me to grow professionally and personally.

What are some of the challenges you have faced working with individuals with brain injury?

Working with individuals with brain injury is challenging in that no two injuries or circumstances are the same. Ideas and solutions appropriate for one client may not be feasible for another. This work is highly individualized and requires constant flexibility, creativity, compassion, and innovation. I find it inspiring, challenging, exciting, and rewarding.

One of the most pressing issues that I encounter working in the field of brain injury is a lack of funding and accessible resources—especially for pediatric clients. Families, particularly those in rural areas, often struggle to find appropriate services and providers. Helping families navigate these gaps is very difficult, which is why support for programs such as BrainSTEPS at no cost to parents and families is critical.

Why is having the CBIS-AP credential important to you?

Advanced training has been critical in enabling me to meet the needs and challenges of those I serve. Earning the Certified Brain Injury Specialist Advanced Practice credential through the Brain Injury Association of America has helped me to expand my therapeutic skills, develop deeper clinical insight, and increase my confidence in managing more complex cases.