Autism Speech Therapy
in Myrtle Beach, SC
Communication looks different for every child on the autism spectrum — and so does the right approach to speech therapy. At Communication Cottage Therapy, our speech-language pathologists specialize in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), using evidence-based methods tailored to each child’s unique communication profile.
Whether your child is pre-verbal, using a few words, or developing complex language, our SLPs meet them where they are and work toward goals that matter most to your family — in a setting that feels safe, familiar, and motivating.
How Autism Affects Communication
Children with autism spectrum disorder may experience communication challenges in a variety of ways, including:
- Delayed spoken language development or limited verbal output
- Difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations
- Challenges understanding non-literal language, sarcasm, or social cues
- Reliance on echolalia (repeating words or phrases heard elsewhere)
- Limited use of gestures, eye contact, or facial expressions to communicate
- Difficulty understanding and following complex directions
These challenges are not a reflection of a child’s intelligence or potential — they are communication differences that respond well to consistent, targeted, family-supported therapy.
Our Autism Speech Therapy Approach
The Owner, Kristin, SLP, specializes in Autism, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and language development. She and our team use a child-led, strengths-based model, following the child’s interests and integrating therapy into daily routines and play to maximize generalization and carry-over at home.
Evidence-based approaches used may include:
- Social Communication approaches
- AAC implementation and training
- Visual supports and structured teaching strategies
AAC for Children with Autism
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes any tools or methods that supplement verbal speech — from low-tech picture boards and sign language to high-tech speech-generating devices. AAC does not replace spoken language; research consistently shows it supports its development.
Our SLPs are experienced in evaluating a child’s AAC needs, recommending appropriate systems, and training both the child and caregivers to use AAC effectively in everyday life. We believe every child has the right to communicate — and we will find the right tools and strategies to make that possible.
Caregiver Involvement and Home Carryover
Research is clear: outcomes improve dramatically when families are active participants in therapy. Our therapists coach parents and caregivers in every session, sharing practical strategies for building communication throughout the day — during mealtimes, bath time, play, and transitions.
We use your child’s existing interests and daily routines as the foundation for therapy. This approach makes learning feel natural, not forced — and it means the skills your child develops in sessions translate directly to their real life.
In-Home and Community-Based Services
For many children with autism, change is challenging — new environments, new routines, new people. Our in-home service model reduces that barrier significantly. Our therapists can come to your home, or daycare, bringing therapy into the spaces where your child feels most comfortable and where communication naturally needs to happen. For most our clinic also is a comfortable environment which allows for children to practice transitions and build routines in a safe-welcoming space.
We serve families across Horry County, including the areas of: Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlets, Myrtle Beach, Carolina Forest, Conway and surrounding areas of the Grand Strand area.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I seek speech therapy for my child with autism?
As early as possible. Early intervention — ideally before age 3 — produces the best long-term outcomes. If you have any concerns about your child’s communication development, don’t wait for a formal diagnosis. Request an evaluation and let us help you understand your options.
Can a child with autism use AAC if they also have some verbal speech?
Absolutely. AAC is not an all-or-nothing tool. Many children use a combination of verbal speech and AAC, depending on the context. Using AAC does not prevent verbal speech from developing — it often supports it.
Do you coordinate with our child's ABA team or school?
Yes. We strongly believe in a collaborative, team-based approach and are happy to coordinate with your child’s other providers to ensure consistency across settings.
Connect With Our Autism SLP Team
Request a consultation today to discuss your child’s communication goals. Our team is ready to build a plan that’s right for your child and family.