Kathleen Smothers, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Prior to joining Raleigh Therapy Services, Kathleen worked for several years in a private practice and also worked for 15 years at Community Partnerships Inc., (CPI), where she provided integrated speech-language therapy services in preschools, daycares and homes throughout Wake County as part of an Early Intervention team for children from birth to six years of age.  Before her time at CPI, Kathleen was the Clinical Director at Ballard and Associates in Raleigh, and also worked for Home Care of Central Carolina in Greensboro and the High Point Preschool Enrichment Center in High Point.

During her 21 years of experience, Kathleen has served children in early intervention who have experienced communication issues related to developmental delays, prematurity, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, sensory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorders, hearing loss, phonological and articulation disorders, apraxia of speech, language processing disorders and others.  Kathleen’s therapy interventions always involve family and caregivers by sharing techniques and suggestions so everyone communicating with the child can have a similar approach.  Total communication is emphasized if it benefits the child, incorporating sign language and gestures along with spoken language.  Play approach utilizes the child’s interests to increase motivation to communicate and talk. Picture boards and schedules have been used with children on the autism spectrum and others.

Kathleen received degrees in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Loyola College in Baltimore (BS) and from UNC-Chapel Hill (MS), and she also received Infant, Toddler and Family certification from the state of NC. As a Speech-Language Pathologist, Kathleen begins therapy by observing each child in the settings and situations he or she encounters each day. She will spend time getting to know your family—to develop a full understanding of the issues unique to you and your child. Kathleen provides one-on-one speech therapy through play interactions, helping your child improve communication skills naturally, and at his or her own pace. Kathleen also believes that parents are the most important teachers in a child’s life. By showing you easy-to-use therapy techniques, Kathleen will help your family incorporate these skill-building activities into your normal everyday routines.