Our Approach:
At Prickly Pear Pediatric Therapy, our Speech-Language Therapy services are grounded in a holistic approach that prioritizes individualized care and evidence-based practices. We believe in fostering a supportive and engaging environment where every child feels empowered to communicate effectively. Our team of experienced Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) is dedicated to tailoring each therapy session to the unique needs and strengths of every child.
Our Areas of Expertise:
Our speech-language therapy services address a wide range of communication difficulties, including:
Articulation and Phonology: Our SLPs specialize in addressing a wide range of speech sound disorders. From intricate preschool-aged sound error patterns to persistent challenges with “r” and “s” sounds in later childhood, our SLPs excel at enhancing your child’s speech intelligibility through targeted interventions tailored to their unique needs.
Autistic Children: Our therapists are deeply committed to empowering autistic children in honing their communication skills. We utilize approaches that celebrate neurodiversity and foster meaningful interactions, ensuring that each child receives personalized support to thrive in their communication journey.
Gestalt Language Processors: We specialize in providing comprehensive therapy for children who process language holistically. Our team ensures that the distinctive communication needs of gestalt language processors (GLPs) are met with sensitivity and understanding. All our SLPs have completed the Meaningful Speech course on the Natural Language Acquisition approach, further enhancing their ability to work effectively with GLPs.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS): Our practice was founded on our owner Emily’s unwavering dedication to treating CAS with evidence-based practice. This rare speech disorder demands specialized expertise in principles of motor learning and current best practices. Emily’s extensive training includes attendance at the Apraxia Kids conference, recognition as the first SLP in southern Utah on the Apraxia Kids Registry, ongoing participation in continuing education events, and networking with leading researchers in the CAS field.
Late Talkers: We specialize in providing targeted interventions for late talkers, children who experience delays in expressive language development. Our approach focuses on promoting language growth through engaging activities and personalized strategies tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Fluency Disorders: Our therapy programs are designed to support children who stutter or experience other fluency disorders. We guide them toward achieving smoother, more confident speech patterns through structured interventions tailored to their individual needs.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): We provide AAC assessments and interventions to empower children who require alternative communication methods. Our goal is to ensure that every child can express themselves effectively, fostering independence and confidence in their communication skills.
Dyslexia and Reading Challenges: Our therapists are skilled in supporting children with dyslexia and other reading difficulties. We provide evidence-based interventions that target phonological awareness, decoding, and reading fluency, helping children build essential literacy skills. Our goal is to make reading a more accessible and enjoyable experience, equipping children with strategies to overcome challenges and succeed academically.
Your Child’s Journey:
At Prickly Pear Pediatric Therapy, we understand that every child’s journey is unique. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care to help your child thrive and reach their full communication potential. From the initial evaluation to ongoing therapy sessions, we’re here to support your child every step of the way.
Client Testimonials
"We were not sure who else to turn to for some of our daughters struggles but after filling out a thorough assessment and talking in length to Kristy, we felt comfortable and encouraged to start with OT. She was so easy to talk to and made herself available for questions or concerns any time. She helped us see and understand that sensory challenges could be the best place to focus attention and therapy on. We had no idea! Therapy with Kristy helped so much!"
"I can’t say enough wonderful things about Prickly Pear. My son has made progress since he began therapy with Kristy (OT) and Kalista (Speech). My son is autistic and nonverbal. He is four years old. The therapists are empathetic, fun, engaging, knowledgeable, understanding, patient, and professional. Their space is great and has a number of fun activities that my son enjoys. I am very grateful for these gals! They are superb! I highly recommend Prickly Pear!!"