Owner/SLP:
Danielle Ninic, M.A. CCC-SLP
Hi! I’m Danielle. Speech-Language Pathologist and Owner of Play with Purpose.
I'm a wife and mama to 5 year old Meredith and 2 year old Ethan. Some of my hobbies include spending time with my family of course, puzzles and reading even though I never have time for those things. I’m working on it. I’m also pretty passionate about health and fitness and eating DQ blizzards (figure that one out ). I love watermelon, giraffes, and the color yellow. Grew up in Mentor on the Lake and have lived in Lake County ever since (except for a year stint in Spain). Early Childhood Education was my first career and I pretty much love anything in the early childhood age group! I decided to go back for speech therapy when I realized I wanted to do more to help on a deeper level.
I was motivated to open up my practice right out of graduate school when I learned that so many kids in our area were going without services due to very long wait lists. I am so grateful to our team and our families for trusting us to help so many kids every day!
Nancy Saxon, M.A. CCC-SLP
Clinic-based full time clinician
As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have had the privilege of helping children become the best communicators they can be for over fourteen years. I am inspired by providing child-led learning opportunities and collaborating with families to encourage communication growth. I am a life-long resident of Lake County. On the weekends, I enjoy: trying out new recipes in the kitchen, lunch dates with my husband, and treasure hunting at local thrift stores.
Payton Boyd, M.A. CF-SLP
Clinic-based Clinician
Hi! I'm Payton Boyd. I grew up in Mentor and have lived here my whole life. I earned my Master's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Cleveland State University in 2025. I've always loved working with children, and my passion quickly became supporting childhood communication and development. I'm dedicated to helping children build strong, foundational communication skills that support their growth, confidence, and lifelong success. Outside of speech therapy, I enjoy relaxing with loved ones, reading, doing puzzles, and spending time with my dogs. I am excited to connect with and support families and help children build confidence through effective communication.
Kayla Schinke, M.A. CCC-SLP
Part Time Clinic Based & Social Skills Groups Clinician
Hello! My name is Kayla Schinke. I graduated from Cleveland State University in 2020 with my Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Since then, I have been working full time in the schools, working directly with students in Kindergarten-8th grade. In February 2023, I also began to work at Lake County Speech with the social skills groups. Growing up, I had a close family member who received speech therapy services. Witnessing their journey and the transformative effect of speech therapy led me to choosing this career in hopes of helping others. I enjoy being able to help children communicate and grow in their confidence. In my free time I enjoy baking, reading, and being outside. I am excited to continue to work with the Play with Purpose team!
Gianna Grandini, OTR
Clinic-based part time clinician
Hello Everyone! My name is Gianna Grandini. I graduated from Walsh University in 2023 with my Master's degree in Occupational Therapy. During my clinical rotations, I gained valuable hands-on experience in outpatient pediatrics at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, which deepened my passion for working with young children. I currently work full-time in a school-based setting, helping students in kindergarten through 5th grade. I love watching my students excel in their everyday classroom activities. My therapy sessions focus on strengthening fine motor skills, improving handwriting, visual motor skills, and environmental navigation. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being outside, watching a good TV show, and trying new restaurants. I am excited to begin the OT Summer Camp and be a part of the Play with Purpose team!
Nicole Michalski
Office/Billing Manager
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a proud momma to 4. I also have 4 fur babies! Some things I just absolutely love are: animals, camping, fishing, hiking, all things blue and baking/cooking with my
kids. My all time favorite hobby is bowling and my favorite sport is hockey. I went to school for Medical Assisting and enjoyed a few years in a medical office. I have recently been a stay at home mom for some time and enjoyed every bit of it! While at home, I watched some children
in my home. Needless to say, my day involves children at every moment and I wouldn’t want it any other way! I am so excited to be a part of your child’s journey here.