Speech & Language Therapy

CDC offers ABA-based speech therapy using PROMPT, OPT, PECS, and AAC along with traditional therapy to help children communicate — personalized plans, family training, and an open-door policy.

At CDC, we empower children to find their voice. Using an ABA-based speech therapy approach combined with evidence-informed techniques like PROMPT and Oral Placement Therapy (OPT), we guide children from simple sounds to words and sentences. For non-verbal children, we provide PECS and high- or low-tech AAC solutions. Our family-centered model includes active parent training and an open-door policy to ensure better carryover at home.

Who We Help

We work with children aged 2–18 years with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Developmental delays and speech-language disorders

• Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS)

• Down syndrome and other genetic conditions affecting speech

• Selective mutism and social communication difficulties

Core Therapy Strategies (What We Use)

• PROMPT Technique — Tactile cues to support speech motor planning and clearer articulation.

• Oral Placement Therapy (OPT) — Exercises and strategies to improve lip, tongue, and jaw placement for accurate sounds.

• PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) — Functional communication for beginners and children who need visual supports.

• AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) — Device-based and low-tech systems tailored to each child’s needs.

• Social Group Communication Therapy — Small-group sessions to practice pragmatic language, turn-taking, and social interaction.

Assessment & Personalized Plans

Every child receives a comprehensive assessment covering:

• Speech sound production & articulation

• Oral-motor skills and feeding concerns

• Receptive and expressive language

• Social/pragmatic communication and classroom readiness

• Attention, learning profile, and sensory needs

Based on assessment findings, we design measurable short-term targets and long-term goals. Progress is tracked weekly and reviewed with families.

What to Expect in Sessions

• Early stages: Building attention, joint engagement, and use of PECS/AAC when required.

• Developing speech: PROMPT and OPT are used to shape sounds and improve oral-motor control, combined with play-based practice.

• Functional & social language: Group sessions focus on requests, conversation skills, and school readiness.

• Sessions include repeated practice, motivating reinforcers, and caregiver coaching for home carryover.

Parent Involvement & Training

CDC follows an open-door policy: parents are encouraged to attend sessions and participate in training. We provide:

• Practical home programs

• Video modeling and guided practice

• Regular progress reports and strategy handouts