Little Communicators is a pediatric therapy center that provides occupational and speech-language evaluations and therapy for disabilities such as apraxia, autism, Down syndrome, developmental delays, oral motor impairment, and feeding disorders.
Little Communicators believes in working collaboratively with parents, teachers, physicians, psychologists, and other speech therapists to ensure the best possible outcome for your child. We provide speech therapy for children ages birth to 15 years in Loudoun County.
Fill out the following form and we will contact you if we have a therapist available for your needs!
Paula C. Schantz, M.S. Ed., CCC-SLP received her Bachelor of Science degree and her Masters of Science in Education and Speech Language Pathology from Nazareth College of Rochester. Paula is licensed in the state of Virginia and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).
Paula C. Schantz, M.S. Ed., CCC-SLP received her Bachelor of Science degree and her Masters of Science in Education and Speech Language Pathology from Nazareth College of Rochester. Paula is licensed in the state of Virginia and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). Prior to establishing her own practice, Paula worked in the public school system, and was co-director of The Speech and Language Center of Northern Virginia.
Her expertise is in evaluating and treating children with various speech and language disorders including Apraxia, Autism, Down Syndrome, oral motor, feeding, and developmental delays. She has knowledge and experience using PROMPT for children with Apraxia. She also is a Hanen certified instructor allowing her to teach parents communication techniques to use with their children that have expressive language delays and Autism Spectrum Disorder. In addition, Paula is a certified Signing Time instructor, teaching parents and their babies sign language. Paula has received advanced training in the areas of Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs) and Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs).
A native of Rochester, New York, Paula and her four children enjoy living in the heart of Ashburn, Virginia.
Mary is originally from Long Island, NY. She grew up in East Setauket, NY and received her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Speech-Language Pathology from Long Island University at the Brookville campus. She has experience working with early intervention, within skilled nursing facilities, public schools, and within private practice. Mary
Mary is originally from Long Island, NY. She grew up in East Setauket, NY and received her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Speech-Language Pathology from Long Island University at the Brookville campus. She has experience working with early intervention, within skilled nursing facilities, public schools, and within private practice. Mary has worked within the field as a licensed and certified Speech-Language Pathologist for 11 years. Mary lives with her husband, Andrew, almost four-year-old son named Finnegan, and sweet dog, Maggie. In their spare time, they enjoy going on long walks, going to the park, and they love visiting the beach!
Erin grew up in a Marine Corps family, with deepest roots in Ohio and North Carolina. She completed her undergraduate studies in English and music at East Carolina University, where she went on to receive her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. The journey since has continually reinforced her passion for the field.
Erin is nat
Erin grew up in a Marine Corps family, with deepest roots in Ohio and North Carolina. She completed her undergraduate studies in English and music at East Carolina University, where she went on to receive her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. The journey since has continually reinforced her passion for the field.
Erin is nationally certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and licensed in North Carolina and Virginia. She is a repeat recipient of the ASHA Award for Continuing Education (ACE), for dedication to learning and professional growth. Sensory regulation, autism, and orofacial myofunctional disorders are among her special interests.
Erin loves combining science, creativity, and connection toward helping others. She finds particular joy in working with children, especially preschool ages. Her experience includes pediatric private practice and preschool through early college educational settings. Erin has training in DIR Floortime and extensive background in transdisciplinary play-based assessment. She emphasizes strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming approaches and the power of play.
In her free time, Erin enjoys oil painting, writing, working out, and attending performing arts events with family and friends.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” - Maya Angelou
Occupational Therapist
Morghen is an occupational therapist with 9 years of experience working alongside children and their families. Outside of providing family-centered care with Little Communicators, she also teaches research courses, neuroscience, and pediatric rehabilitation at a local University. Morghen is a neuro affirming therapist with special intere
Morghen is an occupational therapist with 9 years of experience working alongside children and their families. Outside of providing family-centered care with Little Communicators, she also teaches research courses, neuroscience, and pediatric rehabilitation at a local University. Morghen is a neuro affirming therapist with special interests in helping clients and families appreciate the unique abilities of all children. When she's not working, Morghen enjoys spending time with her own child and family, and exploring the outdoors in beautiful northern Virginia.
Anna graduated with her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Vanderbilt University in 2021. Since then, she has worked in a variety of settings including outpatient clinic and public school. Her specialty interests include articulation and phonology, gestalt language processing, voice disorders, and literacy-based language
Anna graduated with her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Vanderbilt University in 2021. Since then, she has worked in a variety of settings including outpatient clinic and public school. Her specialty interests include articulation and phonology, gestalt language processing, voice disorders, and literacy-based language intervention. When not working, Anna enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her friends and family, and reading. Her favorite thing about being an SLP is the opportunity to connect with families and children in all stages of life.
Favorite Quote: “Being heard is so close to being loved that, for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.”
Allysa is a graduate of Gannon University's five-year accelerated Master's of Science Occupational Therapy (OT) program located in Erie, Pennsylvania. She obtained her National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) in 2015. She currently holds an OT license in the states of Virginia and West Virginia. Allysa is a member of
Allysa is a graduate of Gannon University's five-year accelerated Master's of Science Occupational Therapy (OT) program located in Erie, Pennsylvania. She obtained her National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) in 2015. She currently holds an OT license in the states of Virginia and West Virginia. Allysa is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
Allysa moved to Virginia in 2015 and has worked in both public school and private school settings, outpatient pediatrics, home health for both pediatric and adult populations, skilled nursing, acute care, and provided sensory-behavioral support consultation. She loves helping individuals and their families live their lives to their fullest and watching them grow. She has special interest in the preschool population and sensory integration.
In her free time, she enjoys time with her husband, three dogs, and their new baby girl, whom they welcomed in January. She loves traveling and visiting friends and family, reading, crafting, lyra, and yoga.
Favorite Quote: "If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try."
Samantha completed her undergraduate studies in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Old Dominion University and received her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Abilene Christian University.
Before she attended graduate school, she volunteered at the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program where she quickly became
Samantha completed her undergraduate studies in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Old Dominion University and received her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Abilene Christian University.
Before she attended graduate school, she volunteered at the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program where she quickly became enamored with the speech world. During graduate school, she gained her experience working in a variety of settings including, a voice center, pediatric outpatient clinic, and an acute care hospital. After graduation, she has worked at a Skilled Nursing Facility with the adult population, in private practice, and in a pediatric outpatient clinic working with clients aging from birth-21.
Samantha enjoys the therapeutic process of building rapport with both her patients and their families. She believes that trust and empathy are the key components to every patient’s plan of care. She loves being creative and making her therapy sessions fun and exciting. Outside of the therapy world, Samantha loves spending quality time with her friends and family. She has an 11 month old son, Harrison, who lights up her life.
Favorite quote: "you never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice"- The Nightingale
Crystal Barchacky has been a pediatric occupational therapist for 8+ years. She currently is a professor at Shenandoah University. She has a special interest and expertise in infant mental health and neuro-affirming care. Crystal has worked in 3 different states for early intervention and loves working with caregivers in their natural env
Crystal Barchacky has been a pediatric occupational therapist for 8+ years. She currently is a professor at Shenandoah University. She has a special interest and expertise in infant mental health and neuro-affirming care. Crystal has worked in 3 different states for early intervention and loves working with caregivers in their natural environment.
Favorite quote is by Albert Einstein "Play is the highest form of research".
We have therapists who are trained and certified in Myofunctional Therapy. They use the Tongue Tips: An Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Program, Thumbs Up!: A 30 Day Oral Habit Elimination Program, and Tiny Tongue Tips: An Early Intervention Myofunctional Therapy Program through Simon Says. They have experience providing myofunctional therapy for babies, toddlers, and young children. They assess and develop an individualized treatment plan for children that can be used at the therapy sessions and at home with parents.
Paula has a certificate in SOS (Sequential Oral Sensory) approach to feeding. She is able to create and implement an SOS feeding program for babies, toddlers, and young children. She can identify oral, sensory, motor, cognitive and emotional developmental milestones key to feeding.
Paula has a certificate in More Than Words: The Hanen Program for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or Social Communication Difficulties.
Our therapists coach parents on how to facilitate their child’s social and communication skills in everyday contexts, fulfilling the key criteria for effective early intervention. Therapists are able to use reflective conversation, collaborative problem solving, feedback during caregiver practice and joint planning with families in the Early Intervention Program of Loudoun County.
Paula has a certificate in It Takes Two to Talk: The Hanen Program for Parents. She is able to coach parents on how to facilitate their child’s early language development so that they can effectively apply the learning to everyday interactions with their child.
Paula completed Intro to PROMPT-Technique and Bridging for motor speech disorders and Childhood Apraxia of Speech. She is able to set appropriate goals and objectives for the individual within the PROMPT framework. Able to incorporate PROMPT therapy across a range of settings including the home environment while focusing on the key needs for the child to assist him/her to develop to their highest potential.
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Miss Paula, We cannot thank you enough for how much you have blessed our family through our daughter this past year. You have been invaluable in her speech and growth. Your professionalism and warmth were outstanding and we will miss our frequent meetings with you!
With Love, The Browns
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Dear Paula, I can’t thank you enough for all you have done for our son and our family during your time with us. You have been more than a teacher for him, but also a friend to me when I needed it most. You have made an impact in our lives and I will always think of you with gratitude and goodness.
The Jones Family
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Paula, Thank you so much for all that you have done for our daughter. She is a completely different child than when she started working with you last summer, and it warms my heart to see how much she has grown. We truly cannot thank you enough for the impact you have had on her speech, as well as her confidence in her ability to communicate with family and friends. We are so appreciative and forever grateful for your support of her over the past year. Thank you! All the best, Sarah and Joe
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Miss Paula, Thank you so much for all of your hard work in helping our son find his voice. He has so much to say now! We will miss playing with you!
Erin
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Paula was our son’s speech therapist. We pursued her professional help, support, and guidance over concerns with our son. My son loved his time with Paula. Some days were harder than others, but he always looked forward to their sessions together. Over several months we saw significant improvement with his issues, and he has also become more confident as well. We are truly blessed to have had such knowledgeable help and support and highly recommend her to anyone who has concerns about their child’s speech, language, etc. Thank you for the amazing care you have given us.
Katie
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We are writing in appreciation to Paula Schantz for helping us and our daughter with her speech. At 2 years old, her vocabulary was very limited, consisting of about 20-30 words and no sentences. Because of this limitation, she was getting very frustrated and we were constantly dealing with Isabella’s temper tantrums. Paula bonded quickly with her, and she started by teaching her to communicate some words via sign language. We believe this was a very important stepping stone to get her on the right path. It was fun and rewarding to see her asking for “more,” “all done” and of course her favorite sign for “chocolate” through sign language. Paula was great in teaching us techniques, documenting progress and giving us homework. All of this kept her moving forward and making progress with her communication skills. Most importantly we felt Paula cared about our daughter, our family, and the children and the families she was working with. We are sad that she is no longer eligible to continue work with Paula through the same program. Our daughter loves and always asks about Paula. We are thankful we had the opportunity to know and work with her on her skills. We recommend whole heartedly Paula’s work for her professionalism and integrity, navigating kids and families through their quest of communicating better and efficiently.
Sincerely,
Chris
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Dear Paula, The reason I am writing you a letter is to let you know that you have been a great therapist! I am very thankful to you for all the help you have given me and my daughter. Now she feels more comfortable with herself, her life and her whole environment. Also, she has developed a better way to talk, a better vocabulary, and a better sense of humor!
Sincerely,
Erica
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I highly recommend Ms. Paula with Little Communicators. Before we even started services with Ms. Paula, I had some questions regarding my child's speech IEP and Ms. Paula was so kind and spent so much time with me on a phone call listening and giving me advice and resources. Even though Ms. Paula was completely booked, she worked hard to find a time to add us to her schedule and even tried to find times she would not normally see clients. Her kindness and dedication to her work was apparent immediately. Ms. Paula made every session fun, interesting, and enjoyable for my children which really helped them enjoy going to speech which was critical. They worked on speech through games, crafts, cookie decorating, and more. Having your children wanting to go to speech and motivated to work on speech is half the battle. Ms. Paula is extremely knowledgable and was able to give me great resources and recommended excellent doctors for follow-ups and even an interesting book I read in order to further my understanding. In fact, Ms. Paula recommended I bring my child to an ENT for something she noticed and actually caught an issue the pediatrician and I had not even caught. Additionally, Ms. Paula has vast knowledge and experience with myofunctional therapy as well as programs to help motivate children to stop habits such as finger sucking. She went above and beyond planning a very special party for when that goal was achieved and her extra special efforts in this area made the program a success and helped my child achieve that goal! Ms. Paula truly cares about her clients and her warmth, kindness, enthusiasm, positivity, and creativity made speech such a positive experience for my children and for our family.
Kristin Hood
Please contact us directly with any questions, comments, or scheduling inquiries you may have.
Monday - Friday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Please email completed Patient Registration form to paula@littlecommunicators.com before your initial evaluation.
We are looking for experienced Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists to join our team. If you're interested in one of our open positions (or know of someone who may be interested), start by applying here and attaching your resume.
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