Speech Therapy in Colorado Springs
At Resonate, we believe in holistic communication and the importance of collaboration. Adding an SLP (speech-language pathologist) to our current team of MT-BC’s (music therapist, board certified) in Colorado Springs has increased the quality and scope of what we’re able to offer clients. Access speech therapy at our cozy and safe Colorado Springs clinic, either as a stand-alone service or as a co-treat with music therapy.
We are credentialed with Medicaid for speech therapy, and are a certified out-of-network provider with Tricare for speech therapy. We also offer a private pay option. Our private pay rate for speech therapy services is $80 per 25-minute session.
We’re all about AAC, knowledgeable about gestalt language processing, and love working with both neurotypical and neurodivergent clients. We’re neauroaffirming, which means we support individuals in processing how THEY process. Sensory regulation underscores all we do- regulation always comes before expectation. We believe in the power of play.
Through online services, we’re also not limited to just Colorado Springs! Ask us about virtual services.
Why receive speech therapy at Resonate?
We are an inclusive, neuroaffirming clinic in Colorado Springs that supports clients in building autonomy and self-advocacy skills.
We encourage all forms of communication (e.g., speaking, vocalizing, gestures, American Sign Language, AAC), and we bring expertise on various ways neurodivergent people develop communication skills (e.g., gestalt language processing). We see all ages and all populations!
Our speech therapist brings knowledge of and expertise on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, as well as Gestalt Language Processing (GLP).
Our Colorado Springs clinic also provides a unique opportunity to receive both speech and music therapy in the same space. While some clients benefit from just speech therapy, others thrive when working with a speech therapist and music therapist collaboratively.
Our space is designed to feel like a home, not another cold clinical appointment. Play is critical in our sessions, and we know that play doesn’t end with childhood! Whether you’re here for speech therapy, music therapy, or a music lesson- if you want a place here, you have a place here. Our small business is committed to the Colorado Springs community.
Who will I work with?
Sarah B. Killian, M.S., CCC-SLP
Sarah is Resonate’s speech language pathologist. She has a Master of Science degree in speech-language pathology and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She has many years of experience working with a variety of pediatric patients and their families, is a Meaningful Speech NLA-trained clinician, and has earned the Award for Continuing Education (ACE) two times from ASHA. Sarah has special interests/experience in the areas of gestalt language processing, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Autism, early intervention, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), articulation/phonological disorders, and providing neurodiversity-affirming care.
Sarah works at our Colorado Springs location (just off Fillmore and i25) and works collaboratively with our team to co-treat with music therapy, as well as provide stand-alone speech therapy services. In her own words:
“I’m passionate about honoring personal interests; I love using whatever a child is super interested at the moment to build language growth opportunities. I think “all play is okay” and enjoy creating a space where clients can do what brings them joy. My first priority is always building connection and trust with my clients so I can foster communication risk-taking!
What is Gestalt Language Processing?
Our video crash course on gestalt language processing may be helpful! This is how many autistic individuals interact with language. You may be more familiar with analytic language processing, which is where a baby or small child picks up language in little chunks (words and sounds), and recognizes that these units are total forms of communication no matter the inflection or context. For an analytic language processor, ‘mama’ or ‘dada’ is a complete communication. They then learn- oh my goodness, I can chain these units/words, to change what I’m saying. So they go from units TO phrases.
Gestalt language processors are the opposite of this. They pick up language as entire chunks or phrases. These phrases are often inflective and took place in a context that was emotive of important to the individual. A good example of this is ‘do NOT go out the door’. GLPers replicate the entire phrase, exactly as they heard it, and this is the phrase that holds meaning (this is called delayed echolalia). In the earlier stages of gestalt language processing, before the GLPer can break down and mix and match these phrases (known as gestalts), changing the phrase may result in the phrase no longer holding meaning. So ‘do not go out the dooooor’, may not register as meaningful for that person. So, GLPers go from phrases, to, hopefully, eventually, building communication units/words.
Music therapists are actually uniquely poised to help gestalt language processors! But- we’re not speech and communication experts in the way speech therapists are. This is why working at Resonate can truly make at impact for GLPers, as they can access both services with us.
What can I expect from speech therapy at Resonate?
The option to receive speech therapy on its own or in tandem with music therapy
Inclusive, affirming care for autistic and neurodivergent individuals, individuals with different disabilities, and individuals with general communication needs
Respect and encouragement of client autonomy and self-advocacy
Therapists who are passionate about what they do and who will collaborate closely with clients and families/caregivers using feedback-informed treatment
An incredible clinic location here in Colorado Springs complete with sensory supports, lots of resources, and a calm and restorative lobby space
Expertise on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, Gestalt Language Processing (GLP), and all things communication!
What is Augmentative and
Adaptive Communication (AAC)?
At Resonate, we understand that communication takes many forms, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a vital tool for many individuals who struggle with consistent access to speech- this includes but is not limited to autistic individuals, as well as those with autoimmune disorders, TBI/stroke, or physical disabilities affecting speech production.
AAC refers to all forms of communication, other than oral speech, that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. This can include picture and symbol communication boards, written words, gestures, and high-tech speech-generating devices. AAC is designed to support or replace spoken communication for those who have difficulty with speech production for ant reason. All people have a right to robust communication to share thoughts, fears, annoyances, dreams, rambling, self-advocacy, and passions. And, AAC not only supports communication but also enhances verbal speech development- AAC limiting verbal communication is a myth!
Research by research by Millar, Light, Schlosser (2006) showed that 89% of AAC users actually made strides in their speech. Access to AAC, coupled with a positive and low-demand approach, can help clients see that their communication matters, which can actually facilitate further speech development. By providing alternative means of expression, AAC allows individuals to effectively communicate despite barriers to communication, creating a more relaxed environment for language acquisition.We believe that everyone has the right to communicate effectively, and access to a robust AAC system can be a game changer. Our Colorado Springs speech-language pathologist, Sarah Killian, M.S., CCC-SLP, has extensive experience in AAC implementation and can work with clients to find the most suitable AAC method for their unique needs. Whether it's a picture board or a high-tech electronic device, we're committed to helping our clients find their voice and enhance their ability to interact with the world around them.
By reducing frustration and making it feasible to communicate despite barriers (whatever the reason), AAC creates a positive cycle for clients to communicate all that’s on their mind. At Resonate, we celebrate all forms of communication!
Why is play important in your speech therapy sessions?
Did you know that children learn best through play? Play is crucial for your child’s development! We also understand that play doesn’t end in childhood. Here are 4 things our speech-language pathologist, Sarah, wants you to know about play:
1. Play is more effective: Research shows it takes 400 repetitions to create a new synapse in the brain, but only 10-20 repetitions when done through play!
2. All play is good play: There’s no “right” way to play. Any type of play is beneficial for your child’s growth.
3. Interest-driven fun: Play should be based on what your child loves, bringing them joy and excitement. Lining up items, games that are predictable/repeat often, cause and effect play like tossing items safely- that’s all play!
4. Follow their lead: It’s okay if your child wants to switch activities before finishing. Their interests guide the play!
All play is welcome in our speech therapy and music therapy sessions at our Colorado Springs clinic.