Your child has autism, and communication feels like the biggest challenge. Maybe they’re not speaking at all yet, or perhaps they have words but struggle to use them functionally. They might not respond when you call their name, or they use scripted phrases from videos instead of their own words.
At Dolce Therapies, we understand the unique communication needs of children on the autism spectrum. Our founder, Marie A. Dolce, M.A., CCC-SLP, specializes in helping autistic children develop functional communication skills that improve their quality of life and independence. We know that communication looks different for every child, and we meet each one exactly where they are.
Why Choose Dolce Therapies for Autism Speech Therapy
Specialized Understanding of Autism Communication
Marie holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA and has extensive experience working with children on the autism spectrum. She understands that autism affects more than just speech production. It impacts social communication, pragmatic language, sensory processing, and how children engage with the world. Our therapy addresses all these areas, not just getting words out.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach
We don’t try to make your child “less autistic” or force them to communicate in ways that feel unnatural. Our goal is helping them communicate effectively in whatever way works best for them, whether that’s spoken language, sign language, AAC devices, or a combination of methods. We respect your child’s neurological differences and build on their strengths.
Functional Communication Focus
We prioritize teaching skills that matter in your child’s daily life. Requesting what they want. Refusing what they don’t. Greeting people. Answering questions. Expressing emotions appropriately. These functional skills reduce frustration and improve your child’s ability to get their needs met, which often decreases challenging behaviors.
Collaboration With Other Therapies
Many children with autism receive multiple therapies. We coordinate with ABA providers, occupational therapists, and behavioral specialists to ensure everyone’s working toward the same goals using consistent strategies. This collaboration produces better outcomes than isolated treatment.
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“Marie is amazing! She truly has a special gift to connect with children and you can tell this isn’t just a job to her, but a calling. She truly takes time to not only help the kiddos with their speech, but you can tell she really cares about them.” – Chevy H.
Understanding Autism and Communication in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has a large and diverse autism community. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, which means thousands of families throughout LA are navigating similar challenges. The good news is that Los Angeles also has extensive resources and services available.
Regional Centers throughout LA County provide diagnostic services, case management, and funding for therapies for children with developmental disabilities, including autism. Many families receive ABA therapy through Regional Center funding. Speech therapy can complement ABA services or stand alone, depending on your child’s needs and service plan.
Where LA Autism Families Find Support:
- Harbor Regional Center – Serves South Bay, Long Beach, Southeast LA
- South Central Los Angeles Regional Center – Serves South and Southeast LA
- Westside Regional Center – Serves West LA, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Culver City
- Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center – Serves East LA, Whittier, Monterey Park areas
- North Los Angeles County Regional Center – Serves San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita
- Children’s Hospital Los Angeles – Comprehensive autism diagnostic and treatment services
- UCLA CART (Center for Autism Research & Treatment) – Research-based autism services
California’s Regional Center system provides critical support for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities throughout their lifespan.
Autism Speech Therapy Services We Provide
Functional Communication Training
Many autistic children struggle to communicate their wants and needs, leading to frustration and behavioral challenges. We teach functional communication skills that reduce that frustration. This might include requesting preferred items or activities, rejecting non-preferred things, asking for help, or indicating when they need a break. When children can communicate effectively, challenging behaviors often decrease naturally.
Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC)
Not all children with autism will develop spoken language, and that’s okay. AAC includes sign language, picture exchange systems like PECS, speech-generating devices, and apps on tablets. We’re trained in various AAC systems and help families find the right tools for their child. Research shows that using AAC doesn’t prevent speech development. It often facilitates it while giving nonverbal children a way to communicate immediately.
Social Communication Skills
Autism primarily affects social communication. Children might not make eye contact, struggle with back-and-forth conversation, miss social cues, or have difficulty with perspective-taking. We work on joint attention, turn-taking, topic maintenance, asking and answering questions, and other pragmatic language skills through structured activities and natural play-based interactions.
Echolalia and Scripting Support
Many autistic children use echolalia (repeating what others say) or scripting (repeating lines from videos or books). While some people view this as non-functional, echolalia actually serves purposes and can be a stepping stone to more flexible language. We help children move from immediate and delayed echolalia toward more flexible, spontaneous language while respecting that some echolalia is communicative and self-regulatory.
Receptive Language Development
Understanding language is often as challenging as expressing it for children with autism. We work on following directions, answering different question types, understanding spatial and temporal concepts, and processing increasingly complex language. Building comprehension supports all other areas of communication development.
Sensory Considerations in Therapy
We understand that many autistic children have sensory sensitivities that affect their ability to engage in therapy. We accommodate sensory needs, allow for movement breaks, use preferred sensory items as reinforcers, and create a therapeutic environment that doesn’t overwhelm your child.
Common Communication Challenges in Autism
Nonverbal or Minimally Verbal Children
Some children with autism don’t develop spoken language or develop very little. This doesn’t mean they can’t communicate. We focus on establishing any form of functional communication, whether through gestures, pictures, signs, or devices. Once a child can communicate reliably through one method, spoken language sometimes emerges later, though that’s not always the goal or outcome.
Gestalt Language Processing
Many autistic children are gestalt language processors, meaning they learn language in chunks rather than building from individual words. They might repeat entire phrases before breaking them down into smaller units. This is a natural language learning style that requires specific therapeutic approaches. We’re trained in supporting gestalt language development through stages.
Literal Language and Abstract Concepts
Autistic children often interpret language very literally and struggle with figurative language, idioms, sarcasm, and abstract concepts. We explicitly teach these language concepts that neurotypical children often pick up incidentally. Understanding that “hold your horses” doesn’t involve actual horses makes a difference in daily comprehension.
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“I can’t say enough good things about my family’s experience working with Marie. She is patient, kind, and phenomenal at her job. Her attention to detail and expertise is unmatched. She worked wonders for our son and I recommend her any chance I get.” – Christie M.
Difficulty With Conversation Skills
Many children with autism want to interact but don’t know how. They might not understand how to initiate conversation, stay on topic, read social cues about whether someone’s interested, or take turns appropriately. We break down these complex skills into teachable components and practice them in structured then natural contexts.
Emotional Regulation and Communication
When autistic children can’t communicate effectively, they often show increased emotional dysregulation. Meltdowns frequently stem from communication breakdowns. As communication improves, emotional regulation typically improves too. We also explicitly teach children to identify and communicate their emotions and sensory needs.
Selective Mutism in Autism
Some autistic children speak in certain settings but not others. This selective mutism requires careful intervention that doesn’t increase anxiety around communication. We work on expanding the contexts where your child feels comfortable communicating.
What Autism Speech Therapy Looks Like
Therapy for autistic children looks different than therapy for neurotypical children with speech delays. We adapt our approach to your child’s learning style, sensory needs, interests, and communication level.
We begin with a comprehensive evaluation assessing all areas of communication: receptive language, expressive language, social communication, play skills, and any augmentative communication needs. We also consider sensory factors, behavioral factors, and your family’s priorities. For nonverbal children, we assess readiness for AAC and determine the most appropriate communication system.
Sessions are highly individualized. For some children, therapy is structured with clear expectations and visual supports. For others, a more naturalistic play-based approach works better. We follow your child’s lead and motivation while systematically targeting specific goals. We use special interests as reinforcers and learning tools because motivation matters tremendously for children with autism.
Parent coaching is essential. We teach you strategies to support communication throughout your child’s day, not just during therapy sessions. You’ll learn how to create communication opportunities, respond to communication attempts, use visual supports, and implement AAC systems consistently. Supporting your child at home dramatically accelerates progress.
We collect data to monitor progress and adjust approaches as needed. What works for one autistic child might not work for another, so we remain flexible and responsive to your child’s needs.
Coordinating With ABA and Other Therapies
Many families receive both speech therapy and ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) for their child with autism. These therapies are complementary, not redundant. ABA often addresses behavioral challenges and teaches functional skills across domains. Speech therapy focuses specifically on communication development.
When both therapies are involved, coordination is critical. We communicate with your child’s BCBA about communication goals, strategies being used, and progress. Using consistent language, prompts, and reinforcement across therapies helps your child generalize skills more effectively.
If your child receives occupational therapy, we coordinate on sensory strategies and fine motor skills needed for AAC use. If they’re in special education, we can collaborate with school staff on IEP goals and classroom strategies. This team approach produces the best outcomes.
Early Intervention for Autism in Los Angeles
Early intervention makes an enormous difference for autistic children. California’s Early Start program serves children birth to three who have developmental delays or established risk conditions, including autism. These services are provided at no cost to families who qualify.
Early Start provides coordinated services that might include speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral intervention, and family support. Services happen in natural environments like your home or childcare setting. If your child is under three and you’re concerned about their development, contact your local Regional Center immediately for an evaluation.
For children over three, Regional Centers continue to provide case management and funding for services. Many families receive ongoing speech therapy through Regional Center throughout childhood and even into adulthood if needed.
When to Seek Autism Speech Therapy
If your child has been diagnosed with autism, speech therapy evaluation is almost always recommended. Communication challenges are core to autism, and early intervention improves outcomes.
Seek evaluation if your child:
- Isn’t speaking by age two or has lost language skills at any age
- Doesn’t respond to their name or simple directions
- Has limited eye contact or joint attention
- Doesn’t point to show you things or request items
- Uses words but not to communicate functionally
- Repeats phrases from videos or other people without using original language
- Can’t maintain simple back-and-forth interactions
- Has unusual prosody, volume, or tone of voice
- Struggles with pretend play or playing with others
- Shows distress but can’t communicate what’s wrong
Don’t wait even if your child seems young. The earlier intervention begins, the better. Research consistently shows that early, intensive intervention produces the best long-term outcomes for children with autism.
California Regional Center System
California’s Regional Center system is unique and provides essential services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism. Regional Centers are nonprofit agencies contracted with the California Department of Developmental Services to coordinate and fund services.
If you suspect your child has autism or another developmental disability, contact your local Regional Center for evaluation. There’s no cost for the assessment. If your child qualifies for services, the Regional Center develops an Individualized Program Plan (IPP) and funds needed therapies.
Regional Centers also provide respite services, care coordination, family support, and help transitioning to adult services. They’re an invaluable resource for LA families raising children with autism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will speech therapy help my nonverbal child talk?
Not all nonverbal children develop spoken language, and that’s okay. Our primary goal is functional communication through whatever method works best for your child. For some children, that’s spoken language. For others, it’s sign language, AAC devices, or picture exchange. All forms of communication are valid and valuable.
How is autism speech therapy different from regular speech therapy?
Autism speech therapy addresses the unique communication profile of autistic children, including social communication deficits, gestalt language processing, sensory considerations, and the need for visual supports and structured teaching. We also focus heavily on functional communication and reducing communication-related frustration.
Should we try speech therapy or ABA first?
Many children benefit from both simultaneously. Speech therapy focuses specifically on communication development, while ABA addresses broader behavioral and skill development. They complement each other. Talk with your Regional Center service coordinator about what combination of services makes sense for your child.
What if my child uses a communication device? Will they ever talk?
Research shows that using AAC doesn’t prevent spoken language development. It often facilitates it. Some children who use devices eventually develop spoken language and transition away from the device. Others continue using AAC as their primary communication method. Either outcome is positive if your child can communicate their needs and wants.
How long will my child need speech therapy?
That varies tremendously. Some children need intensive therapy for several years. Others make rapid progress and transition to less frequent sessions. Many children with autism benefit from ongoing periodic therapy throughout development as new communication challenges emerge in different contexts and social situations.
Can you help with problem behaviors related to communication?
Many challenging behaviors in autism stem from communication difficulties. When children can’t express needs, refuse things, or ask for help, they often resort to behaviors like tantrums, aggression, or self-injury. As communication improves, these behaviors typically decrease. However, if behaviors are severe or dangerous, coordination with a BCBA is recommended.
Do you work with teenagers with autism?
Yes. Communication needs continue evolving through adolescence and adulthood. Teenagers might need support with more complex social language, understanding abstract concepts, workplace communication, or transition planning. We work with clients across the age spectrum.
Will you help my child make eye contact?
We focus on functional communication, not compliance with neurotypical social norms that may be uncomfortable for autistic individuals. While we work on social communication skills, we don’t force eye contact or other behaviors that cause distress without functional benefit. There are many ways to show engagement besides eye contact.
About Dolce Therapies and Autism Services
Dolce Therapies was founded on the belief that every individual deserves to communicate effectively and be understood. We’re passionate about supporting autistic children and their families with compassionate, evidence-based therapy that respects neurodiversity.
Our founder, Marie A. Dolce, M.A., CCC-SLP, earned her Master of Arts degree in Speech-Language Pathology and has dedicated significant clinical focus to autism spectrum communication disorders. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA and maintains ongoing professional development in autism intervention, AAC implementation, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
We believe in meeting each child where they are and celebrating all forms of communication. Our core values of kindness, creativity, inclusivity, and innovation guide our work with autistic children and families. We’re committed to providing therapy that reduces frustration, increases independence, and improves quality of life for the whole family.
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“Marie Dolce is incredibly helpful. She’s knowledgeable, patient, and truly cares about her clients. Her expertise in speech and language pathology made a huge difference for me, and I can’t recommend her highly enough.” – Heather Ireland
Whether you’re in West LA, the Valley, South Bay, or anywhere throughout Los Angeles County, we’re here to support your child’s communication journey with expertise, empathy, and respect for who they are.
Important Los Angeles Autism Resources
Harbor Regional Center
Serves South Bay, Long Beach, and Southeast LA
21231 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
Serves South and Southeast Los Angeles
2500 S. Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90018
Westside Regional Center
Serves West LA, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Culver City
5901 Green Valley Circle, Culver City, CA 90230
Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center
Serves East LA, Whittier, Monterey Park areas
1000 S. Fremont Ave, Alhambra, CA 91803
North Los Angeles County Regional Center
Serves San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita
9500 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Chatsworth, CA 91311
UCLA Center for Autism Research and Treatment (CART)
Comprehensive autism services and research
760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Autism Clinic
Diagnostic and treatment services
4650 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Autism Society of Los Angeles
Community support, resources, and advocacy
Visit autism-society.org for information
Schedule Your Free Consultation
If your child has autism and communication is challenging, we’re here to help. Whether your child is nonverbal, uses some words but struggles with functional communication, or needs support with social language, we can develop a plan that addresses their unique needs.
At Dolce Therapies, we combine specialized expertise in autism communication with genuine respect for neurodiversity and your child’s individual strengths. We know that every autistic child communicates differently, and we’re committed to finding what works best for your child and family.
Contact us today for your free consultation.
We’ll discuss your child’s current communication abilities, your concerns and goals, and how speech therapy might support their development. We work closely with families and coordinate with other service providers to ensure comprehensive, consistent support.
Your child deserves to be heard and understood. Let’s work together to help them communicate in ways that reduce frustration, increase independence, and improve quality of life. Every communication milestone matters, and we’re here to celebrate them with you.
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“Marie is extremely caring and very helpful. She realized what the patient’s condition was and saw things that were not readily apparent. She also took the time and interest to advocate for the patient with the staff at the nursing facility. She is a God send, I feel so blessed that we found her.” – Frank H.
