Speaking & Training
Learn from a nationally recognized expert.
Mary Billings is a nationally recognized educator who teaches clinicians across the country in orofacial myofunctional therapy, feeding therapy, and clinical best practices. Her engaging, evidence-based presentations are sought after by professional organizations, universities, and healthcare groups.
Function Focus Academy
In 2022, Mary Billings founded Function Focus Academy as a professional education platform dedicated to advancing the field of orofacial myofunctional therapy. Through Function Focus, Mary has trained thousands of speech-language pathologists, dental professionals, and allied health providers across the country and internationally.
Function Focus offers dynamic, hands-on courses that blend online learning with multi-day live events in cities across the United States. Every course is grounded in evidence-based practice and designed to be immediately applicable in the clinic. ASHA-approved CEUs are available for qualifying courses.
Courses Offered
Make The Connection
The flagship course from Function Focus Academy. This dynamic online-plus-live course covers the science of orofacial myology, comprehensive assessment skills, and implementing effective treatment planning for orofacial myofunctional disorders. The live event component is a 3-day immersive experience held at venues across the U.S.
Learn more about Make The Connection
OMD: Advances in Therapy
An advanced 2-day course for clinicians who have completed Make The Connection or have equivalent foundational knowledge. This course takes a deeper dive into therapeutic treatment approaches for working with orofacial myofunctional disorders, building on assessment skills with targeted intervention strategies.
Learn more about Advances in Therapy
OMD: Extend the Connection
A continuation course that explores new applications and advanced techniques in orofacial myofunctional therapy. Designed for clinicians looking to expand their expertise and stay current with the latest developments in the field.
Learn more about Extend the Connection
Upcoming 2026 Courses
Live, multi-day training events across the U.S. — taught by Mary Billings. ASHA CEUs available.
Speaking Topics
Mary presents on a wide range of topics related to speech-language pathology, orofacial myofunctional therapy, and clinical practice. Popular speaking topics include:
- Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders — Assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic techniques for tongue thrust, open mouth posture, and other myofunctional concerns
- Feeding Therapy Best Practices — Evidence-based approaches to pediatric feeding challenges, including sensory-based food aversion, oral motor skill development, and parent coaching strategies
- Tethered Oral Tissues — Identification, assessment, and interdisciplinary management of tongue-tie and lip-tie, including pre- and post-surgical therapy protocols
- Clinical Assessment Techniques — Comprehensive evaluation methods for speech, feeding, and orofacial myofunctional disorders that lead to effective treatment planning
- Building a Specialized Private Practice — Business strategies, niche development, and clinical excellence for SLPs building or growing a specialized practice
Past Engagements
Mary has presented at conferences, universities, and healthcare organizations across the country. Select past engagements include:
- National and regional speech-language pathology conferences
- University guest lectures and graduate program presentations
- Dental and orthodontic study clubs
- Hospital and healthcare system in-service trainings
- State speech-language-hearing association events
A detailed list of past engagements is available upon request.
Explore More
Ready to learn more about Mary's courses or bring her expertise to your organization?
- Function Focus Academy — Browse courses, register, and access on-demand content
- View Topics & Courses — Browse the full catalog of speaking topics and continuing education offerings
- Book Mary for Your Event — Submit a speaking inquiry for your conference, workshop, or training
Book Mary for Your Event
Bring expert, evidence-based education to your organization, conference, or study group.