Communication Haven

I'm Kendra. I’m a sensory-trained and neurodiversity-affirming speech therapist in Lacey, WA. And I happen to be neurodivergent myself, too! I specialize in regulation-focused and play-based speech therapy for autistic kiddos ages 3-7, but I see patients up to age 18 and with other diagnoses, too. My therapy sessions look a lot like play, because supporting authentic play brings regulation, joy, and connection. Those foundations are key to building intrinsic motivation to communicate, and that's what pediatric speech therapy is all about. My specialties are supporting communication development for gestalt language processors (GLPs), AAC users, and non-speakers / minimally-speaking individuals Sometimes also called echolalia, using scripts, or "movie talk", gestalt language processing is a common way that autistic people develop language skills but it is often misunderstood. GLPs may not respond to "traditional" speech therapy approaches, even after being in speech therapy for years. Sometimes, GLPs will use a few taught words like "more", "help", or "all done", but have difficulty developing language beyond that. I also regularly offer trainings and workshops for speech therapists, occupational therapists, mental health providers, and educators on how to better understand gestalt language processing and support these unique language learners. I offer free 15 minute consultations for families who are interested in speech services. If you have questions about speech therapy or professional trainings or would like to schedule your initial consultation, you can email admin@communicationhaven.com or use the "contact" button at the top of the page.