About Colleen Nolan
My Mission
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.
Who Am I?
I am a Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, PAC™ Certified Dementia Trainer Licensed- PAC CDT/L and founder of Rooted in Care Consulting.
I bring over 22 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.
Me and my amazing mom.
Relationships are at the heart of my work. Every person brings a lifetime of experiences, relationships, preferences, and stories that deserve to be understood and honored.
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.
Education and Training:
1998: Boston College, B.A., Psychology
2004: Emerson College, M.S., Communication Disorders
2023: Certified Dementia Practitioner
2024: PAC™ Certified Independent Consultant
2025: PAC™ Certified Independent Trainer
2025: PAC™ Certified Independent Advanced Consultant
2026: PAC™ Certified Dementia Educator Licensed- PAC CDE/L
In the News
I joined WCNC Charlotte Today to talk about dementia, behavior as communication, and how understanding what may be happening beneath the surface can change the way we respond.
Interview with Charlotte Today 6/25/26
