Courtney Banister, M.S. CCC-SLP

Courtney’s interest in speech language pathology began when her sister was diagnosed with a language delay around 18 months of age. After taking her sister to multiple sessions and seeing the improvements she made, Courtney quickly realized how rewarding, yet fun this profession could be. Courtney received her Bachelor’s degree in Speech Language Hearing Sciences and her Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Courtney is originally from Fargo, ND and brings over 10 years of experience to Ignite Speech & Language. She has worked with students of varying backgrounds and disabilities primarily through early intervention and preschool ranging in ages 3-6. During this time, she gained valuable experience evaluating and treating children with speech, language, and social skills deficits.

Courtney believes each child is an individual and works to use their personal strengths and abilities to enhance their learning and to help them grow. She is goal-oriented, yet flexible and uses her fun and sometimes silly personality to connect with children. She is committed to building a relationship full of trust and compassion with the child and their family.  

Courtney has her ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence and is licensed to practice in North Dakota. She has advanced training in Deaf-Blindness through the University of South Dakota, as well as Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), and verbal behavior.

​When Courtney is not working with students to improve their speech and language skills, she is busy being the mother of 2 (6 year-old girl and 4 year-old boy), spending time with her family, and coaching high school cross country. She also enjoys running, lifting, crafting, and playing board games or completing puzzles with family.