Speech Language Pathology

At OTC, our Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are fully credentialed, NJ-licensed professionals who hold the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence. Committed to neurodivergent-affirming practices, they specialize in supporting individuals across the lifespan to achieve their unique and individualized communication goals using evidence-based approaches.

We celebrate the many ways people communicate, presuming competence and recognizing that every communication style is valid and meaningful. Our strength-based, client-centered approach prioritizes empowering individuals to express themselves authentically, building upon the student's strengths and preferred communication methods, which can include a natural language acquisition approach, spoken language strategies, non-verbal cues, visual aids, alternative communication devices (AAC) and/or multimodal strategies.

Neurodivergent-Affirming Practices

Our services honor individuals by focusing on their strengths, preferences, and goals, avoiding deficit-based practices that seek to "fix" differences. Key components include:

• Recognizing and building upon individual strengths and communication styles, including non-speaking cues and visual supports.
• Avoiding stigmatizing language and using affirming terms that respect personal identity.
• Supporting sensory and communication needs to create comfortable, inclusive environments.
• Addressing masking behaviors by fostering safe spaces for authentic self-expression.
• Collaborating with families and educators to ensure consistent strategies across environments.

Areas of Expertise

Our SLPs provide personalized interventions in a variety of areas, including:

• Supporting autistic and neurodivergent communicators
• Enhancing receptive and expressive language development
• Addressing speech sound differences, including articulation and phonology
• Exploring AAC and multimodal communication strategies
• Providing affirming approaches for apraxia, dysarthria, and sensory processing variations
• Offering oral motor support and safe swallowing interventions

Commitment to Collaboration and Growth

At OTC, collaboration is central to our approach. We partner with individuals, families, educators, and other professionals to develop personalized plans that reflect each person’s strengths, preferences, and goals. We also provide training to families and communication partners, empowering them to foster meaningful interactions and support consistent communication growth.

Our SLPs receive ongoing mentorship to stay current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques, ensuring the highest standard of care.

We are dedicated to supporting communication in ways that are respectful, empowering, and person-centered. Our approach and practices foster confidence, self-advocacy, and meaningful connections while equipping families and support teams with tools and knowledge to thrive together.