Pediatric Speech & Language Therapy in East Providence, RI

Providing neurodiversity-affirming speech and language therapy in person in East Providence, Rhode Island. We have a special interest working with autistic children, gestalt language processors and completing AAC evaluations and providing AAC therapy and coaching. We also provide school contract services for AAC evaluations.

Our Mission

At Competent Communicators, we empower children to communicate in their own way—through speech, AAC, or both. Using play-based, neurodiversity-affirming therapy, we meet each child where they are and build on their strengths and interests.

Our Specialties

Gestalt Language Processing: Supporting natural language development for gestalt learners using the NLA framework.

AAC Evaluation & Therapy: Personalized AAC support to help children communicate in ways that work for them.

Neurodiversity-Affirming Social Therapy: Connection-focused support that honors each child’s unique way of interacting.

Why Work With Us

At Competent Communicators, we celebrate every child’s unique communication style—whether through speech, AAC, or both. Our play-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach meets kids where they are, builds on what they love, and helps them grow into confident, authentic communicators.

Welcome to Competent Communicators — Where Connection & Acceptance Come First

At Competent Communicators, we believe every child deserves to be accepted exactly as they are. We offer family-centered, connection-based therapy that honors your child’s voice—whether spoken, gestured, or through AAC. We partner with parents, follow your child’s lead, and build communication through joy, not compliance.

Personalized Therapy to Help Your Child Achieve Their Goals

AAC Evaluation & Therapy

We provide individualized AAC support, from evaluation to ongoing therapy, to help children communicate effectively in ways that work for them.

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Gestalt Language Processing Support

We support gestalt language processors using the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework, guiding them from echolalia to original, self-generated language.

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Parent Consults & Coaching

We empower parents with tools, strategies, and support to strengthen communication at home and beyond—because you know your child best.

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School Contracting

We partner with schools to provide AAC evaluations, staff training, and ongoing coaching to support successful AAC implementation across the school day.

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Meet The Founder and Lead Speech Therapist

Welcome! I’m Kaitlin.

I became a speech-language pathologist because I’ve always been passionate about play, child development, and helping children thrive. My approach is meaningful, family-centered, and rooted in connection. I love making therapy a safe, joyful space where kids feel seen—and where parents feel hopeful. I’m especially honored to work with neurodivergent children and families who know that all play is valid and communication grows best through joy.

  • "My son had a smile on his face at every visit & never wanted to leave."

    My son was referred to Kaitlin for an AAC evaluation & Kaitlin went above and beyond to make sure my son was provided with a device. She is the kindest and most knowledgeable person!! My son had a smile on his face at every visit & never wanted to leave. I HIGHLY recommend Competent Communicators LLC and Kaitlin!


    ~ Sabrina (parent of evaluation client)

  • "Her play-based approach in evaluating my autistic son for an AAC device was outstanding."

    I am delighted to share my positive experience with Kaitlin. Her play-based approach in evaluating my autistic son for an AAC device was outstanding. She not only made him feel comfortable but also guided me seamlessly through the process, handling insurance matters and collaborating with other therapists for a comprehensive plan. Kaitlin's expertise, simplicity, and dedication ensured a painless experience, and the education she provided has set my son up for a successful future. Highly recommend her services!


    ~ Wendy (parent of evaluation client)

How it All Works

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

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Insurance & Billing

We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Mass General Brigham, and Harvard Pilgrim plans. Some families may be eligible for reimbursement from other insurance providers using a superbill; however, it is the family's responsibility to confirm coverage and reimbursement eligibility in advance. Any services not covered by insurance are the responsibility of the family.

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@competentcommunicatorsllc
@kaitlinmulcaheyslp

There’s so much more to focus on in a speech therapy lesson than “teaching” language. If we keep these ideas at the forefront of our therapy, the language will flow naturally and won’t need to be explicitly taught. 🤝💬🌈
Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when modeling language for parents of GLPs. Though every child is different, I find these three keys to be important to keep in mind when working with all GLPs.
When consulting and planning for new (and all) AAC users it's really important to consider the long term goal, which is spontaneous, initiated communication about topics, ideas and opinions that are interesting to the client. It can be so easy to get
There are many signs that an AAC user may be a gestalt language processor. Here are some of the more classic signs I have noticed doing AAC therapy over the years. This is not an exhaustive list, but, these are some signs to look out for. If your AA

We’re accepting new clients for speech therapy in East Providence, RI.