We care about the genuine connection between people.

Katie having a session with a boy while drinking his milkshake at a Chik Fil A Restaurant with his AAC device

The driving force behind bAACTalk!

We care about creating genuine connections between people and meeting clients and families where they are without judgement. We strive to ask curious questions, follow evidence in the field, and to think outside of the box for therapy to be as effective as possible.

With experience in multiple different settings and these core values at our center, our founder, Katie, decided to open her own private practice.

Meet Your Speech Therapy Team

Founder & Speech Therapist

Meet Katie

Founder of bAACTalk! Katie Shepherd smiling at the camera with her son

I am a Speech- Language Pathologist, AAC Specialist, and Feeding therapist. I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree from West Chester University in 2014 and with my Master’s degree in Speech- Language Pathology from the University of Pittsburgh in 2017. I have worked in a variety of settings throughout my schooling and professional practice with an ever present passion to work with children and adolescents.

I am passionate about meeting children where they are, creating meaningful and positive relationships, and assisting families to support their child’s overall development. I love what I do and couldn’t imagine anything else making me this happy!

I hold a Speech Therapy License in Delaware and Maryland, am a certified member of the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), and recipient of the Award for Continuing Education (ACE) for ongoing learning in the field of speech language pathology.

I am also a wife, new mom, and dog mom. I enjoy hiking in the mountains, sticking my toes in the sand, kayaking or paddle boarding on the water, doing amateur photography, and going on adventures with family and friends. I currently reside in Newark, DE.

Founder of bAACTalk! Katie Shepherd smiling at the camera with her son
Bio profile image of Aurora, a speech therapist at bAACTalk! Speech Therapy

Speech Therapist

Meet Aurora

Bio profile image of Aurora, a speech therapist at bAACTalk! Speech Therapy

I’m a Speech-Language Pathologist with a focus on regulation, connection, communication, and self-advocacy. My approach centers around tuning into your child’s interests and working towards their goals through play-based therapy.

Growing up with a brother who has a mental health disorder and a cousin with 1p36 deletion syndrome opened my eyes to not only the challenges individuals with disabilities face but also the incredible capabilities they can develop with the right support. Balancing the roles of sibling, advocate, and professional has deeply shaped my understanding of the power of human connection and compassion.

I earned my Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Delaware in 2022. I’m licensed in Delaware and am a certified member of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). My career began at a children’s hospital, where I received extensive training in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Recently, I transitioned to the school setting and absolutely love it. Working with families and supporting children’s learning and development brings me so much joy. Together, let’s celebrate all the victories—big and small!

Outside of work, I’m busy planning my wedding and can’t wait to get married next year! In my free time, I enjoy game nights, traveling, and cheering on the Phillies. I currently live in Wilmington, DE.

Quick Facts

Families Assisted with AAC

Years Practicing Speech Therapy

States Licensed In

Experienced With

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Autistic individuals

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Cerebral Palsy

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Down Syndrome

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Motor Speech Disorders

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Behavioral Feeding

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Other Speech & Language Disorders

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We are extremely happy with the care and progress. Nathaniel went from almost no words to true communication, this has given him so much confidence. Katie gained his trust and took the time right where he was at. We are so grateful.

Nathaniel’s Parents

Founder of bAACTalk! Katie Shepherd smiling at the camera with her son

Ask the therapist!

Learn about developmental milestones, how to increase communication opportunities in your home, and how to use your child’s toys for speech and language development in a 30 minute video call with an SLP.
Founder of bAACTalk! Katie Shepherd smiling at the camera with her son

Resources

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Benefits of Doing Speech Therapy in the Community

Benefits of Doing Speech Therapy in the Community

Speech therapy doesn’t have to be confined to a clinic. By taking therapy into the community—whether it’s a park, grocery store, or library—children can practice communication skills in real-world environments. Learn how this approach helps children stay engaged, generalize their skills, and communicate more confidently in everyday situations.

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What should Speech Therapy Look Like for my Child?

What should Speech Therapy Look Like for my Child?

As a parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their ability to communicate. If your child has been recommended for speech therapy, you might be wondering what to expect. This post will guide you through what speech therapy typically looks...

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