Emma (she/her) is a speech-language pathologist (SLP) with a passion for using the performing arts to target and improve communication skills. She earned a dual bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, and Deaf Studies in 2017 and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2019 both from Towson University. She is currently a Maryland state licensed clinician and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) in speech-language pathology from the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association. Emma works full-time for Carroll County Public Schools at the high school level and part-time at SPEECH PATHways in Westminster. MD.

Emma is a self-described “theater nerd” and has participated in over 20 productions in the last ten years. She has worked with Special Olympics Maryland to pilot their first performing arts program titled “Plunge into Improv!”. She has also established a budding improvisational theater program for the special education students in the high school where she works in collaboration with the school’s drama teacher.

​Emma believes each individual has something unique to communicate to the world. If “all the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players,” what better place to hone our skills than through performance? Emma is so excited to be a part of the Barrier-Free team!

Emma Shipley Gribben, Assistant Director, Co. A & B

"This is my daughter Tanika’s 2nd season with Barrier-Free Theatre.  I am truly amazed at the difference this program makes in her life.  She has an intellectual disability and has difficulty participating in many activities.  Since she began Barrier Free it’s like a whole new world was opened for her.  Socially she has progressed in amazing ways.  Britt and Lauren have made it possible for our young people to shine in their own special ways.  As a parent I can not begin to thank them for what they have done for our young adults.  Also, I have been given the honor of participating with then in this year’s performance.  It’s and incredible experience, one that has helped me understand the reason our young people love this program with such passion."

- Terri Kafritsas (left), mother of Tanika (right), a Barrier-Free actor
COVID-19 Protocol & Mask Update - 02/06/22
As of 2/5/2022 Maryland COVID cases are below a 1,500 7-day average.  This means we will be removing the mask requirement for Barrier-Free staff and interns at The Studio.  

We also want to remind everyone that we have a 4-stage HEPA air purifier located next to our table that filters 1,740 sq ft in 1 hour (our Studio is 770 sq ft) and we will continue to open the back window as well as the front door when weather allows to maximize fresh air circulation. 

Masks will continue to be required at all Inclusive Theater Company rehearsals due to group size and for carpooling from The Studio to rehearsal due to the small space.

Driving Coaching

Driving while neurodiverse includes more than just obtaining a driver's license.  Barrier-Free is here to support families as they prepare for their neurodiverse family member to begin driving.

Driving coaching is recommended at all stages of the driver's education process whether a participants has no experience, limited experience, or already has a license but desires additional support to be a successful driver.

This coaching is available only to participants currently attending The Life Skills & Social Studio.

Driving coaching may include:

  • Navigating a traffic stop
  • Communicating with police officers
  • Self-advocating for oneself during a traffic stop
  • Preparing for the learner's permit assessment
  • Rules of the road and sign recognition
  • Minimizing distractions
  • Anxiety triggers and self-regulation when preparing to drive
  • Instruction and support for families teaching the driver-to-be
**Barrier-Free does not operate a Maryland certified driving education program.  All driving coaching is supplemental to an individual's attendance of a certified program and completing all Maryland licensing requirements.
Giving Tuesday occurs the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It is touted as a "global generosity movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world."

This year, consider making a donation to Barrier-Free to support our mission of inclusivity.

You can also support Barrier-Free by hosting a personal Giving Tuesday Facebook Fundraiser!  PLAN AHEAD - On Tuesday, November 30 Facebook will be matching the first $8 million in donations made via their social network!

Our Roots

Sally Bailey

The Barrier-Free Theatre Model was founded by Sally Bailey, RDT/BCT, MSW, MFA, & Professor at Kansas State University, and is used with extensive training and permission.
Barrier- Free Theatre: Including Everyone in Theater Arts available for purchase via Amazon.
The purpose of the Barrier-Free's Studio is to further expand on our mission by using integrated arts to facilitate social opportunities and life skills development.
Details:
  • Adults (18+) with intellectual/developmental disabilities & autism
  • Thursdays 6:30 - 7:30 pm
  • March 4 - 25  (4 weeks)
  • ​Tuition: $30
  • Class held via Zoom​​
  • Teaching Artist: Emma Shipley
  • Assistant Teaching Artist: Michael Eaton
Due to COVID-19 and it’s impact on our community, Barrier-Free is providing additional flexibility in class registration.
  1. If at any time leading up to the start of class, any actors or families would prefer to cancel their registration, we will offer a 100% money-back guarantee.
  2. If at any time during the class, an actor’s health impacts their ability to attend and/or engage in class sessions, Barrier-Free will offer a pro-rated refund based on the number of class sessions remaining.
  3. Not sure if this class is for you? We are offering a 2 week trial period! Step 1: Register for the full class and pay the tuition. Step 2: Attend the first 2 weeks of classes. Step 3: If you are not fully satisfied after 2 weeks, contact us directly and we will issue you a FULL refund, no questions asked.
Still have questions? Email us directly at info@BarrierFreeMD.com or give us a call at 301-799-8669

Payment Options
  1. Pay in full via online credit card payment when registering.
  2. Pay via mailed check to 23219 Stringtown Rd. #373 Clarksburg, MD 20871. Check must be received prior to the start of class.
  3. Cash payments not accepted​

Funding Options
  • Barrier-Free services are eligible for a variety of funding types including Autism Waiver, DDA -Self-Direct, LISS, and others.
  • Please contact us directly to coordinate funding opportunities, request invoices, or other funding matters.
Marcel Hickman is a Barrier-Free actor who made his theatrical debut during our Fall 2020 season.

​He recently moved to Baltimore, MD and now participates in our theater companies, expressive arts classes, and social groups. ​

Marcel was kind enough to take the time to sit down for an Actor Spotlight and share his experiences with Barrier-Free!

View Marcel's Actor Spotlight on our blog.

How to Apply

With the subject line, “____________ Position”, email your cover letter detailing your qualifications along with your resume to info@BarrierFreeMD.com.

OR

Apply via Barrier-Free's Indeed job postings.

If you have questions regarding the application process, or the position, please email info@BarrierFreeMD.com.

Don't see a job that fits?

Still interested in working for Barrier-Free but don't see a job opening that fits your qualifications?

Email your cover letter and resume best outlining your qualifications to info@barrierfreemd.com to see if there is an opportunity that may work for you. 

We will keep your resume on-hand for future job openings.