Legacy Ambassador Mara Friedman

I have been a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) for 29 years and wear many hats at Love Serving Autism (LSA). As the Therapist Outreach Coordinator, I am responsible for recruiting, training, and mentoring therapists (SLPs, OTs, and PTs) on court and placing them within LSA programs. I am also a certified LSA Level 3 Coach, Rising Racquets Therapist, and Certified Autism Specialist. In addition, I work with several LSA programs throughout South Florida, providing services at community-based locations and supporting physical education curricula in private and charter schools. Beyond my work with LSA, I serve as an adjunct professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). I also present alongside Lisa at professional conferences, including the Florida Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. A former collegiate tennis player, I continue to play in women’s leagues throughout Palm Beach County.

I earned my B.A. in Psychology from Lafayette College and my M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from George Washington University. Before relocating to South Florida in 2023, I lived in New Jersey, where I worked in a variety of settings, including hospital-based pediatric rehabilitation, Early Intervention, private practice, and both public and private schools.

After joining Love Serving Autism, I quickly discovered my true passion: combining tennis with speech-language therapy. I began working as both an SLP and a coach at LSA clinics throughout Palm Beach County while developing ideas to expand LSA programming to additional locations. In 2024, I was honored to receive the Coach/Therapist of the Year Award at the LSA Match Point Gala. This is my third year serving as a Legacy Ambassador, and I remain deeply committed to LSA’s mission.

I truly love what I do, and there is nothing more rewarding than watching an athlete gain confidence and succeed in communication, both on and off the court.