A woman with short brown hair and blue eyes smiling, wearing large decorative earrings and a gray turtleneck sweater, with a blurred background of bottles.

About Colleen Nolan

At the heart of my work is connection, curiosity, and respect. I partner with people living with dementia, their families, and care teams to navigate moments that feel stressful, confusing, or unpredictable. This work centers dignity and relationship, with the belief that even difficult moments can be met with understanding rather than force or fear.

My Mission

Who Am I?

I am a Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, PAC™ Certified Independent Advanced Consultant & Trainer, and founder of Rooted in Care Consulting.

I bring over 20 years of experience supporting communication and connection across home, community, and care settings. My background as an SLP deeply shapes how I observe interactions, listen for meaning beneath behavior, and support relationship-centered care.

Why I Started Rooted in Care

I created Rooted in Care Consulting after witnessing how isolating and overwhelming dementia-related care can feel, for families and professionals alike. Too often, people are left with strategies that don’t fit, or guidance that focuses on managing behavior rather than understanding it.

I wanted to create a space where people feel supported, not judged. Where reflection, curiosity, and respect guide decision-making. And where no one feels like they have to figure this out alone.

My Approach

My work is facilitative and relational. I don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions or tell people what they “should” do. Instead, I support you in observing real interactions, recognizing patterns, and considering options that fit your unique situation.

This approach draws on brain-informed understanding, attunement, and partnership. The goal is not control or compliance, but calmer interactions, preserved dignity, and stronger relationships, for both the person living with dementia and those supporting them.

Who I Partner With

I partner with individuals and teams who value curiosity, reflection, and relationship, and who are seeking thoughtful guidance rather than quick fixes.

Education and Training:

1998: Boston College, B.A., Psychology

2004: Emerson College, M.S., Communication Disorders

2023: Certified Dementia Practioner

2024: PAC™ Certified Independent Consultant

2025: PAC™ Certified Independent Trainer

2025: PAC™ Certified Independent Advanced Consultant