Meet your therapists
The journey to change the world starts with one child.
Our mission
At Growing Minds, we empower children to communicate, connect, learn and thrive through compassionate, individualized speech and occupational therapy. Through evidence-based, play-centered care, we build a supportive space where children feel understood, valued and celebrated.
We partner closely with families to build skills for communication, independence, confidence and everyday participation, and we celebrate every milestone, big and small, one growing mind at a time.
Hi, I’m Amanda
I’m Amanda Pirtle, M.S., CCC-SLP, a pediatric speech-language pathologist and co-owner of Growing Minds. My job is to help children feel capable, and to help parents feel less alone.
My background
I earned my undergraduate degrees at Western Carolina University in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Entrepreneurship, then my master’s in Speech-Language Pathology at Appalachian State University in 2017. I spent years in several private practices, working in outpatient clinics, children’s homes and daycares, before opening Growing Minds in 2024.
Where I can help
How I work: learning through play
Children make the most progress when they feel safe, engaged and motivated. My sessions are play-based and guided by evidence-based goals, using games, stories and movement that are each selected to target a specific skill.
I build on your child’s interests, set a pace that matches their needs, and celebrate each milestone along the way. Parents are essential partners, so I explain our goals and coach you on practical ways to carry new skills into daily life.
Outside of work
When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me curled up with a good book or cooking in the kitchen. I love to hike and spend time outdoors with my husband and our two dogs. I also enjoy going to concerts and listening to live music.
Hi, I’m Madison
I’m Madison Karagias, OTD, OTR/L, a pediatric occupational therapist and co-owner of Growing Minds. I love helping children build the skills they need to take part in everyday life with confidence.
My background
I received my doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) from Wingate University and am a licensed occupational therapist in North Carolina. I’m now proud to co-own Growing Minds alongside Amanda.
Where I can help
I work with children on fine motor skills, handwriting, sensory integration and social-emotional regulation.
How I work: learning through play
Play is how children make sense of their world, so it’s how I help them grow. I follow your child’s lead, build on their strengths, and turn real-life skills like holding a pencil, calming big feelings or tolerating new textures into things that feel fun and doable. I also share practical ideas so progress continues at home.
Outside of work
I love to travel with my husband and our son whenever we get the chance, and I enjoy gardening. I’m a beach girl at heart, but Mooresville is home.
We’d love to meet you and your child.
If you have a question, a worry, or just a feeling that something isn’t quite right, please reach out. There’s no pressure and no such thing as a silly question. We can take the first step together.
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