The IAOM Mentoring Committee for Professional Development serves as a vital bridge for COM® candidates, guiding them from their initial classroom learning through the rigorous certification process. This journey is both challenging and rewarding, requiring dedication, focus, and a strong support network. The Mentoring Committee steps in to provide that
foundation, offering a safe, collaborative space where candidates can navigate challenges in presentation, treatment, and evaluation—free from judgment.
What makes this program truly exceptional is that the learning doesn’t stop when certification is achieved. The committee actively fosters growth at every stage of a professional’s journey, encouraging both candidates and seasoned clinicians to join and share their experiences. Certified professionals are invited to attend sessions to give advice, brainstorm treatment ideas, and contribute to the continuous exchange of knowledge. This dynamic collaboration creates an environment where everyone—whether just starting out or well-established in the field—can learn, grow, and thrive together.
At its heart, the Mentoring Committee is built on a foundation of love and care. It fosters a welcoming environment for open dialogue and shared learning, where no question is too small, and every voice is valued. The committee leaders, Seema Virji and Dana Surena-Mattson, embody these values through their passion, expertise, and tireless dedication to mentoring and supporting others.
Monthly Virtual Meetings and Support
The Mentoring Committee hosts free virtual meetings every third Wednesday at 8:30 PM EST, providing a collaborative study club environment where members can present cases, receive expert feedback, and participate in group discussions. Each session typically runs longer than an hour to allow for in-depth exploration of multiple cases. To ensure accessibility, a Zoom invite is sent out the Monday of the week, and recorded sessions are available for those unable to attend live. All current IAOM members receive this Zoom invite and are welcome to join.
These sessions go beyond the certification process, creating a space for ongoing professional development. Participants not only learn about becoming certified but also gain insights into real-world applications of orofacial myology. For many, these meetings are much more than a professional commitment—they are a chance to connect with a like-minded community, united by a shared vision to improve health and wellness through orofacial myology.
Comprehensive Support System
Beyond the monthly meetings, the Mentoring Committee offers a robust system of ongoing support. Members benefit from responsive communication within 48 hours from both mentors, who bring complementary expertise in dental hygiene and speech pathology.
This dual perspective allows for comprehensive guidance tailored to individual needs. The committee provides personalized one-on-one mentoring for those preparing for the certification process, as well as access to recorded sessions and resources.
Whether it’s treatment planning, clinical reasoning, or understanding citation requirements for certification, the committee ensures that members have the tools they need to succeed. Key areas of support include:
- Personalized guidance and feedback
- One-on-one mentoring for certification preparation
- Access to recorded sessions for review
- Case study preparation and research support
- Certification exam readiness
- Clinical skill development and reasoning
- Professional confidence building
- Peer learning opportunities
- Resource recommendations and evidence-based practice documentation With such a comprehensive approach, the Mentoring Committee equips its members with the knowledge and confidence to excel in the field.
International Collaboration
The IAOM Mentoring Committee has grown from a primarily US initiative into a truly global program. Today, it proudly serves members from Canada, Europe, Brazil, China, India, Greece, Australia, and beyond. By recognizing the challenges of working across time zones, the committee has made its resources more accessible through recorded sessions and flexible communication options. This international reach reflects the Mentoring Committee’s commitment to fostering collaboration and support for professionals worldwide.
A Safe and Collaborative Learning Environment
The Mentoring Committee is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space where professionals can freely share challenges and seek guidance without fear of judgment. This politics-free, ego-free zone fosters a family-like atmosphere, encouraging peer support and collaborative problem-solving. Members are empowered to ask questions, share ideas, and grow together in a neutral environment focused solely on professional development.
Commitment of the Mentoring Committee
Professionals engaged in orofacial myology are at the forefront of holistic science, bridging the gap between oral health, speech pathology, and overall wellness. This field has profound implications for the future of medicine, and many describe their work as a labor of love. The certification journey, though rigorous, is immensely rewarding, requiring a deep understanding of orofacial anatomy, therapy techniques, and evidence-based practice.
The Mentoring Committee plays a critical role in supporting this journey. Through their monthly calls, ongoing communication, and personalized guidance, the committee leaders are committed to helping members every step of the way. Their efforts go far beyond the meetings, as they dedicate countless hours to answering questions, reviewing cases, and preparing candidates for success.
Seema Virji and Dana Surena-Mattson exemplify this commitment. Seema currently serves on the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM) Board of Directors, her expertise is in dental hygiene and her pioneering work in orofacial myology in Edmonton, combining technical knowledge with a heartfelt dedication to improving oral health. Dana, with over 25 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist and orofacial myologist, brings a collaborative approach to her work, helping patients and mentoring new practitioners alike. Together, they have shaped the Mentoring Committee into a vital resource for orofacial myology professionals worldwide.
The IAOM Mentoring Committee is much more than a resource—it is a lifeline for those embarking on the certification journey and beyond. All members are invited to join in on any session. Powered by the dedication of its leaders, it continues to inspire and empower professionals across the globe, ensuring that the future of orofacial myology is as impactful as its potential.
