Pediatric Speech Therapy · Dixon, CA

Autism Speech Therapy in Dixon, CA

Specialized communication therapy for children with ASD. Evidence-based approaches. Insurance accepted.

ASHA CCC-SLP | 20+ Years Experience | 300+ Families | Insurance Accepted

Schedule a Free Consultation

No obligation. We respond within one business day.

Communication Challenges in Children with ASD

40-70% of children with autism experience significant language delays. Early, specialized therapy can build functional communication skills.

Limited or Absent Speech

No spoken words by 16 months, or loss of previously acquired words. May use limited vocalizations.

Difficulty With Social Communication

Reduced eye contact, limited gestures, difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations with peers or adults.

Repetitive Language Patterns

Echolalia (repeating phrases), scripted language, or difficulty using language flexibly in new contexts.

Difficulty Reading Social Cues

Trouble understanding facial expressions, tone of voice, sarcasm, or the unspoken rules of conversation.

Frustration With Communication

Behavioral challenges may stem from an inability to express needs, wants, or feelings effectively.

Narrow Conversational Topics

Intense focus on specific subjects with difficulty engaging in reciprocal conversation about other topics.

Reference: ASHA Practice Portal, Autism. 40-70% of children with ASD experience significant language delays.

Three Core Treatment Focus Areas

Our approach addresses the specific communication needs of each child with ASD through three evidence-based focus areas.

Social Communication

Building the foundational skills needed for meaningful interaction with others.

Joint attention and shared engagement
Turn-taking in conversation
Understanding nonverbal cues
Initiating and responding to peers
Narrative and storytelling skills

AAC & PECS

Augmentative and alternative communication provides a bridge to functional expression.

Picture Exchange Communication System
Communication boards and devices
Sign language support
High-tech AAC systems as appropriate
Transition to verbal communication

Research shows AAC does not hinder speech development; it facilitates it (ASHA).

Pragmatic Language

Teaching the social rules of language that children with ASD often find challenging.

Conversational turn-taking
Topic maintenance and shifting
Understanding figurative language
Reading facial expressions and tone
Appropriate greetings and closings

Regional Center -- Ages 0-3

We accept referrals from North Bay Regional Center for children ages 0-3. Regional Center early intervention services are provided at no cost to families. If your child has an ASD diagnosis or is showing early signs, contact us to discuss Regional Center eligibility and referral.

What Therapy Involves

Therapy for children with autism is highly individualized. We use evidence-based approaches tailored to your child's communication profile, strengths, and goals.

Comprehensive communication assessment covering receptive language, expressive language, and social communication
Individualized goals developed in collaboration with your family and your child's care team
Structured, predictable sessions using visual supports and your child's interests
Parent training to extend communication strategies into daily routines and natural environments
Coordination with ABA therapists, occupational therapists, and school teams as needed

Clinical Credentials

20+

Years Experience

300+

Families Served

CCC-SLP

ASHA Certified

ASD

Specialized Training

What Families Say

"Our son was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 4. The first services we received was speech therapy as he was unable to express himself. We were lucky enough to have been paired with Stacey. Our son has been in speech therapy for almost a year now and has improved so much. He is always excited to go see Mrs. Stacey. We are forever grateful."

-- Lopez Family, Dixon, CA

"STC helped me ease my daughter into attending sessions independently instead of needing me to accompany her to every session, which has given her more confidence. My daughter looks forward to her therapy every week. We've experienced other speech therapy service providers and STC is by far our favorite. It feels like a second home."

-- Ann & Rose, Vacaville, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

What does speech therapy for autism involve?

Speech therapy for children with autism focuses on building functional communication skills. This may include social communication training, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) such as PECS, and pragmatic language development. The approach is individualized based on your child's specific needs and strengths.

Will AAC or PECS prevent my child from talking?

No. Research consistently shows that AAC does not hinder speech development. In fact, AAC often facilitates verbal communication by reducing frustration and providing a bridge to spoken language. ASHA's position supports the use of AAC alongside speech therapy.

At what age should speech therapy for autism begin?

As early as possible. Early intervention during the first three years produces the best outcomes. We work with children as young as 12-18 months through Regional Center, and the research supports early, intensive intervention for communication development in children with ASD.

Do you work with Regional Center?

Yes. We accept North Bay Regional Center referrals for children ages 0-3. Regional Center early intervention services are provided at no cost to families.

What insurance do you accept?

We accept Sutter HMO, Kaiser, Cigna, Blue Shield PPO, Western Health Advantage, and North Bay Regional Center for children ages 0-3.