Pemma Ashdown is a voice specialist Speech and Language with extensive experience working with singers and professional voice users. Pemma´s approach and ethos is as holistic, integrated and embodied as possible, working with each individual's strengths to improve vocal quality and health whilst developing wellbeing. Pemma has additional training in Mindfulness for singers and for musicians which she draws on when appropriate. She works with a range of intervention approaches including supporting breath work, de-constriction exercises, posture, alignment. She is experienced in working with transgender and non-binary voice and communication with people who are going through their transition process.
Pemma is also a singer, songwriter and musician and knows from experience how challenging it can sometimes be to have your vocal instrument in top condition. From an early age she has been inspired by singing, music and the benefits these bring. Her own journey to overcome vocal challenges in her early twenties was the catalyst to embarking on a degree course in speech and language therapy.
She has been a Speech and Language Therapist since 2000, graduating from City University London in Clinical Communication Studies/Speech and Language Therapy. Wishing to deepen her integrated approach to voice intervention, in 2010 to 2012 she completed training in a postgraduate course in Mindfulness from Aberdeen University. She has also trained with the Mindfulness Association. She is interested in the art and science of voice and wellbeing, and maintains an interest in continually learning about this.
Pemma has a wealth of experience in improving people’s voices and rehabilitating vocal difficulties and problems. For many years she was the Specialist Voice Speech and Language therapist in Tunbridge Wells NHS, and has worked in the NHS and with independent clients for many years.