Meet Nikki McRory

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Nikki McRory. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Nikki below.

Hi Nikki, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.

In the heart of Los Angeles, where the sun kisses palm trees and dreams take flight, Nikki McRory’s story unfolds—a tale of unwavering passion, resilience, and boundless optimism. Since 1998, Nikki has dedicated her career to working with children and families impacted by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and the indomitable spirit that fuels her practice.

Nikki’s fascination with communication began long before she stepped into the halls of academia. As a child, she observed the world through curious eyes, noticing the intricate dance of words and gestures. She understood that communication was more than mere words—it was the bridge connecting hearts, minds, and souls. This early awareness ignited a spark within her, a flame that would burn brightly throughout her life.

During her undergraduate studies in communication sciences and disorders, Nikki’s path took a decisive turn. She encountered children whose voices were trapped, their expressions stifled by the complexities of ASD. Their struggle resonated with her, and she knew she had found her purpose. Armed with determination, she pursued a master’s degree in speech-language pathology, eager to unlock the doors of communication for those who needed it most.
Establishing McRory Pediatric Services, Inc.

In 1998, Nikki founded McRory Pediatric Services, Inc., a haven for families seeking hope and healing. Her vision was clear: to create a center where children with ASD could thrive. The walls of her practice echoed with laughter, tears, and the triumphant sound of progress. Nikki’s optimism radiated through every therapy session, infusing the space with possibility.

Nikki was not content with the status quo. She delved into research, seeking innovative approaches that would yield results. Her programs were more than interventions—they were personalized journeys. She collaborated with a team of professionals, designing center-based programs that addressed communication, social skills, and behavior. Each child became a canvas, and Nikki painted hope with every brushstroke of therapy.

Families traveled from across Los Angeles and beyond, drawn by Nikki’s reputation. They witnessed their children’s transformation—the first hesitant word, the shared smile, the newfound confidence. Nikki’s optimism was contagious; she believed in each child’s potential, even when progress seemed incremental. Her unwavering commitment inspired parents to dream bigger, to see possibilities beyond the diagnosis.

Nikki’s influence extended beyond her practice. As a mentor, she shaped the next generation of speech-language pathologists. Her knowledge was a beacon, guiding others toward evidence-based practices. But Nikki’s advocacy went further. She served as the Board Chair of the Southern California Chapter of Autism Speaks, amplifying the voices of those she championed. Her optimism fueled her tireless efforts to raise awareness and create a more inclusive world.

Nikki’s optimism wasn’t blind—it was rooted in experience. She celebrated victories, no matter how small, and learned from setbacks. Her own journey mirrored those of the children she served. Life threw curveballs—late nights, and moments of doubt—but Nikki’s flame never wavered. She knew that optimism wasn’t about denying challenges; it was about believing in resilience, growth, and the human spirit.

And so, Nikki McRory continues her journey—a beacon of hope, a catalyst for change. Her optimism, nurtured by compassion and fueled by unwavering dedication, lights the way for countless families. In the sun-drenched corridors of McRory Pediatric Services, Inc., children find their voices, and Nikki finds her purpose anew.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Nikki’s commitment to mentorship and professional growth extends beyond her clinical work. As the Executive Director of McRory Pediatric Services, she oversees a team of over 225 employees. Her passion lies in mentoring others, especially clinical fellows. She believes in empowering practitioners by sharing cutting-edge research, treatment methods, and evidence-based best practices. Through her online courses, Nikki provides a framework for confident and capable speech-language pathologists, board-certified behavior analysts, and qualified autism services practitioners.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

1. **Strategic Acumen and Vision**:
– As an executive director, having a strategic mindset is crucial. The ability to envision the organization’s long-term goals, anticipate trends, and adapt to changes in the healthcare landscape is essential.
– Strategic acumen involves understanding the broader context, identifying opportunities, and making informed decisions that align with the organization’s mission. It’s about thinking beyond day-to-day operations and considering the bigger picture.
– Advice for early-career professionals: Cultivate your strategic thinking by staying informed about industry trends, attending conferences, and seeking mentorship from experienced leaders. Understand how your work fits into the larger organizational strategy.

2. **Leadership and Relationship Building**:
– Effective leadership is fundamental for any executive director. Building strong relationships with staff, business partners, and stakeholders is critical.
– Leadership skills include communication, empathy, conflict resolution, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. A successful executive director fosters collaboration and creates a positive work environment.
– Advice for early-career professionals: Invest time in developing your leadership skills. Seek feedback, learn from both successes and failures, and build genuine connections with colleagues. Remember that leadership is not about authority but about influence.

3. **Financial Management and Sustainability**:
– An executive director must understand financial principles, budgeting, and resource allocation. Financial stability ensures the organization’s sustainability and ability to fulfill its mission.
– Being fiscally responsible means making informed decisions about resource allocation, and cost management. It also involves assessing risks and planning for contingencies.
– Advice for early-career professionals: Gain financial literacy by taking courses or seeking guidance from financial experts. Understand your organization’s financial health, explore grant-writing skills, and learn about fundraising strategies. Being financially savvy contributes to long-term success.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

Paving the Path to Higher Education, Nikki’s mother, a steadfast advocate for education, instilled in her daughter the belief that knowledge was the key to unlocking doors. Growing up in a modest household, Nikki’s mother encouraged her to dream beyond their circumstances. “Education,” she would say, “is the bridge to a brighter future.” With unwavering determination, Nikki became the first person in her family to attend college. Her mother’s words echoed in her mind as she stepped onto the campus, ready to carve her own path.

The Work Ethic That Knows No Bounds From a young age, Nikki understood the value of hard work. At just 16 years old, she held her first full-time job—a testament to her grit and resilience. Balancing work, studies, and family responsibilities, she learned the art of time management and perseverance. Her parents, both of whom worked tirelessly to provide for their family, exemplified the dignity of labor. Nikki absorbed their work ethic like a sponge, carrying it with her into adulthood.

Lessons from Humble Beginnings Nikki’s upbringing taught her that success wasn’t handed down; it was earned through sweat, sacrifice, and a hunger for knowledge. Her parents, who had weathered their share of storms, imparted invaluable lessons:

Resilience: Life may throw curveballs, but resilience allows us to stand tall.
Empathy: Understanding the struggles of others fosters compassion.
Perseverance: When obstacles arise, keep pushing forward.
Community: We are stronger together; lifting others lifts us too.
As Nikki reflects on her journey, she honors her parents’ legacy. Their sacrifices fueled her ambition, and their unwavering support propelled her forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mcrorypediatrics.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcrory_pediatric_services/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcrorypediatricservices/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcrory-pediatric-services-inc
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mcrory-pediatric-services-valencia
• Other: https://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-McRory-Pediatric-Services-EI_IE437278.11,36.htm