Jacklyn Coats, M.Ed. CCC-SLP
Owner
Languages: English, Spanish, and Russian
Jacklyn, owner of Carolina Speak Now, received her M.Ed. in Communication Disorders from North Carolina Central University. She is a certified bilingual (Spanish/English) speech language pathologist. Her experience spans from birth to death. She has experience working with children with a variety of disabilities such as childhood cancer, deafness, autism, Down syndrome, motor speech disorder and developmental delays. In 2013 and 2014 she spent several weeks working in a community clinic in Orizaba, Mexico providing speech and language evaluations and therapy to the needy. After her experiences in Mexico, she returned to the US and co-founded Te Acompaño, a non-profit service organization, based in Orizaba, Mexico which provides education and medical resources to the deaf population of the area.
Jacklyn is professionally active, providing workshops and lectures at various conventions. She has a passion for working with families and collaborating with other professionals to provide optimal patient-centered therapy. Jacklyn also enjoys traveling and learning new languages
Abbey Johnson, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist & Therapist Trainer
Languages: English
Abbey Johnson calls Pittsboro, NC home. She graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a Bachelor's in Psychology. She then attended North Carolina Central University where she earned her Masters of Science in Speech Language Pathology. During her time at NCCU, Abbey participated in a specialty track including additional coursework and received specialized training in the areas of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), cultural and linguistic diversity, conducting research, and early intervention. Clinical experience ranges from private clinics, school systems, and hospital settings.
Abbey has experience working with a number of different diagnoses and disorders, including: Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental delays, Cerebral Palsy, receptive and expressive language delays, intellectual disabilities, phonological disorders, articulation disorders, and with the deaf and hard of hearing population.
Abbey has worked very closely with Autism and AAC on building necessary language skills, because she believes everyone has a voice. She loves creating new materials that are specific to each child. Abbey has a strong passion for the pediatric population and believes therapy should encompass an interdisciplinary approach and fully believes it is a team effort that includes the parents. Also, one of her core beliefs is the importance of providing culturally and linguistically diverse services that is tailored to the client.
Andrew Stout, M.Ed. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English & Spanish
Andrew earned his M.Ed. in Communication Disorders from North Carolina Central University, where he specialized as a bilingual (Spanish/English) clinician. He has experience working with individuals throughout the age span and in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, daycares, public schools, and in the home. The majority of Andrew’s experience has been in providing home-based intervention, working with both English and Spanish-speaking families, and a substantial portion of his clinical experience has involved assessing and providing intervention for Spanish-English bilingual children with speech and language disorders. His primary area of interest is providing early identification and intervention services for the Spanish-English bilingual population, and he has worked closely with this demographic since entering the field in 2016.
Andrew has worked with individuals with receptive and expressive language delays, auditory processing disorder, fluency and speech sound disorders, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, Smith-Magenis syndrome, Down syndrome, and dyslexia. Andrew firmly believes in an individualized and interactive treatment approach in which close collaboration between the clinician, parents, other family members and caregivers, and the community at large is essential to create an optimal environment for a child to build communication skills.
Candese Callender, M.Ed., A.S. SLP-Assistant
therapist assistant
Languages: English
Candese Callender is originally from Bridgetown, Barbados but has lived in Fayetteville, NC the majority of her life. Candese graduated from Fayetteville State University in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and gained extensive experience in the field working at the Department of Social Services. In May 2009, Candese graduated from Fayetteville Technical Community College with an Associate’s degree in Applied Science in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. Candese is very passionate about working with children and in understanding how they learn and develop. She has also earned a Master’s in Education for Child Development.
Elisha Blankson, M.Ed. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English, Spanish, French
Elisha has had the privilege of working as a bilingual therapist with children and their families for the past two and half years and also has six years of experience in early intervention and ten years of work history in mental health and working with behaviorally challenged adolescents. He uses an interactive therapeutic style which appeals and is appreciated by children.
Elisha believes that the word therapy is all encompassing and that the success of therapy seriously depends on the synergistic collaboration of parents and the therapist. He firmly believes that the inclusion of other caretakers and the community as a whole in caring for a child promotes progress and facilitates the effort. Elisha cherishes knowing you and your child and is excited to have the opportunity to work towards one main goal, helping your child meet his or her developmental needs. He is also fluent in Spanish, French and four Ghanaian idioms.
Elizabeth "Liz" Kriston, M.S. CCC-SLP
therapist
Languages: English
Liz graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with her Master of Science in 1999. Post- graduation, she embarked on a career in early intervention. Using the coaching model of intervention, Liz has spent over 2 decades supporting families in helping their children meet the goals set in the areas of feeding and communication. Liz believes in building relationships and using a strengths-based approach to intervention.
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Her professional journey led her on many paths, including interim professor, author, advocate, and public speaker. When a loved one was diagnosed with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Liz immersed herself in learning about and then teaching others about this lifelong, irreversible, neuro-developmental disability. She is dedicated to increasing worldwide awareness and supporting prevention through education.
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Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Liz has resided in California and Pennsylvania and is now excited to call Western North Carolina home. When not working, Liz spends time enjoying the outdoors hiking, kayaking, and fishing with her husband, two grown daughters, and their rescue dog.
Evelyn Garcia Lopez, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English & Spanish
Evelyn is from Asheboro, NC. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and Disorders from Appalachian State University. She attended North Carolina Central University, where she earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. Evelyn has clinical experience working in pediatric private practice and public schools.
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Evelyn has experience working with children with developmental delays, expressive/receptive language delays, phonological and articulation disorders, autism, and children who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). She is excited to return to Randolph County and work with clients and caregivers from underserved communities.
Jennifer Juarez, M.Ed. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English & Spanish
Jennifer Juarez earned her M.Ed. in Communication Disorders with honors from North Carolina Central University. She specialized as a bilingual (Spanish/English) speech-language pathologist. More than half of her graduate clinical experience focused on assessment and treatment of bilingual children and adults with speech and language disorders. Jennifer’s last internship included collaborating with service providers to help rule out a language difference versus a language disorder among multilingual students in the Durham Public School District.
Juan José Luzón, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English & Spanish
Juan José is originally from Santiago, Dominican Republic, but moved to the United States at the age of 15 years. He obtained his B.S. in Sciences and Communication Disorders from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He obtained his M.S. in Science Communication and Disorders at North Carolina Central University with a specialization in bilingual therapy (Spanish / English).
During his clinical practices, Juan José has had the experience of working with clients with different disorders and diagnoses, such as: delays in receptive and expressive language, autism spectrum disorder, phonological disorders, developmental delays, and disorders of the joint. Juan José has also worked with people who need AAC devices for communicating.
Juan José believes in helping people and their families and making a positive impact on the lives of my clients by improving their speaking, language, and communication skills. Juan José feels that this is a truly rewarding field where you can make a difference.
Kara Haywood, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English
Kara is originally from upstate NY but has spent most of her life in Raleigh and Cary, NC. She graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill with a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and earned a Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from Vanderbilt University. She also enjoyed studying and working abroad in France during her college years and learning about bilingualism. She worked with a Spanish interpreter in her first clinical year.
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Kara has over 20 years of experience working with children, including those with autism, specific language impairment, oral-motor disorders, apraxia of speech, phonological disorders, or English as a second language. She has extensive experience with sign language and sensory integration, and she has spent the majority of her career working in Early Intervention.
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Kara likes to work closely with parents to identify why their child may be having trouble communicating and to develop simple ways during their everyday lives to improve their child’s speech and language skills. She strives to provide speech and language therapy services in a child’s daily activities and routines. As an SLP, she cares very much about her kids and their families, and she truly enjoys building relationships with them.
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When she’s not at work, Kara enjoys cheering for the Carolina Tarheels, spoiling her two dogs, playing pickleball, or playing Wii games with her two teenage boys.
Katherine Reyes-Rodriguez, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English & Spanish
Katherine graduated from Appalachian State University with a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She earned her M.S. in Communication Science and Disorders from North Carolina Central University, graduating summa cum laude with specialization in bilingual service delivery.
She has experience working with individuals across the lifespan assessing and treating articulation/phonological disorders, receptive and expressive language delays/impairments, dysphagia, TBIs, and dementia. Katherine also had the pleasure of working closely with families and other professionals (physical therapists/occupational therapists/teachers) to support individuals with Down syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
She is excited to continue working closely with caregivers, families, other
clinicians/professionals, and the community to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services for underserved communities.
Kathryn "Katie" Pyant, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English
Katie aims to be a source of knowledge and support to parents while being a child’s best buddy! She developed a passion for speech and feeding therapy while earning her undergraduate degree in Human Development and Family Studies from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She went on to earn a graduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from North Carolina Central University.
Katie is proud to have served clients all across the lifespan -- from birth to age 101! She has experience with expressive/receptive language disorders, Pediatric Feeding Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down syndrome, articulation errors/phonology disorders, Cerebral Palsy, low and high-tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication, selective mutism, and more.
Katie strives to provide therapy that’s functional and FUN! The best part of her job is making connections with families. In her clinical practice, Katie uses evidence-based, individualized care that empowers children and families to meet their full potential. Katie enjoys traveling, working out, and doing nail art in her free time.
LaToya Davidson-Perez, BBA, MLIS, & M.Ed.
Office administrator
Languages: English
LaToya is an administrative professional and librarian. Her expertise includes process creation and documentation, project management, and task management. Tech-savvy and ambitious, she has an advanced skill set in many popular productivity web applications and software, including Google Workspace, ClickUp, and Mixmax.
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A five-time college graduate with Master's degrees in Library & Information Studies and Adult Education, LaToya spent over a decade in public libraries and is a long-time member of several professional organizations, including the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). She is an avid reader, writer, and poet who enjoys active learning, pop culture, Atlanta United, and spending time with her close-knit family.
Leigh Anne Kurtz, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English
Leigh Anne has been a therapist and passionate advocate for 30 years. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association and is licensed by the Board of North Carolina. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree and Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from East Carolina University.
Leigh Anne believes in empowering clients and their families to overcome challenges. She approaches therapy in a fun, loving, and energetic manner, helping children learn through fun activities, which is instrumental in achieving steady progress and building confidence.
Leigh Anne has clinical experience working with clients from 2 years of age to adulthood in a variety of settings: private practice, in-home therapy, NC Pre-K, Headstart, public and private schools, as well as Group Homes for Disabled Individuals. She has experience working with many different diagnoses and disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental delays, receptive & expressive language delays, intellectual disabilities, phonological disorders, articulation disorders, and fluency disorders.
Born and raised in North Carolina, Leigh Anne is married, the mother of two daughters, and Mimi to three adorable grandchildren. She also has a spoiled four-legged baby named “Addie.” Leigh Anne enjoys spending time with her family, church activities, camping, bargain shopping, and crafting.
Nicole "Nikki" Cochran, M.Ed. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English & German
Nikki is a proud Durhamite who earned her M.Ed. in Communication Disorders at North Carolina Central University and her BA in Psychology and BA in German from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She has received extensive training as an LMBT in body-based sensory-motor interventions such as Craniosacral Therapy and Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration that help target additional complications of trauma, ADHD, and autism.
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Nikki has worked extensively across the lifespan with individuals with a wide variety of speech-language and communication disorders and has specialized in working with populations with autism, genetic disorders, complex communication disorders/medical fragility, trauma, and social skills difficulties. Her passion is in early intervention/preschool intervention and working with adults with developmental disabilities. She is a strong advocate for family-centered services, especially in underserved populations, and believes that finding joy and success in learning is a human right that every client can access, regardless of the severity or obstacles they are facing.
Paige Phillips, M.Ed. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English
Paige attended East Carolina University and received an undergraduate degree with dual majors in Philosophy and Political Science. She also took excess coursework in psychology at Fayetteville State University. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she worked in the Cumberland County School System as a substitute teacher for two years. In 2013, she received her graduate degree, a Masters in Speech Language Pathology from North Carolina Central University, and currently specializes in early intervention. She has experience working with motor speech disorders, language delay, autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and articulation/phonological processing disorders and stuttering. Paige is licensed with the North Carolina Board of Examiners and is Certified Clinically Competent by the American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Patrick Evangelista
Office Support Specialist
Languages: English & Filipino
Patrick has over a decade of experience working in the BPO industry. He is adept at communicating with commercial clients, including those in the healthcare, marketing, sales, and recruitment communities. Proficient at managing and planning, he excels at managing client communications with timely and in-depth responses.
Rebecca Junge-Voller, M.Ed. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English
Rebecca earned her master's degree in Communication Disorders from North Carolina Central University, graduating summa cum laude in 2014. Her pediatric background specializes in serving children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, ADD/ADHD, expressive and receptive language delays, and articulation disorders.
Rebecca believes in developing personalized strategies tailored to each individual child and family in order to improve and maximize overall functioning and meaningful communication. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association and is licensed by the Board of North Carolina.
Born and raised in Nebraska, Rebecca enjoys spending time in the NC sunshine with her school-aged son and identical twin daughters, tackling DIY projects with her husband, and caring for animal rescues on their small farm.
Rosa Rodriguez, A.S. SLP-Assistant
Therapist Assistant
Languages: English & Spanish
Rosa Rodriguez was raised in Brooklyn, New York, and lived in Manhattan before moving to Raleigh in 2008 with her husband and daughters. A graduate of Fayetteville Technical College, she has worked in the field of speech-language pathology (SLP-Assistant) and as an interpreter for many years. She has practiced in public schools as well as private homes and clinics. Rosa has also worked with children of all ages and cultural backgrounds and specializes in making her clients feel at ease throughout the therapy process and has also worked with individuals with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADD/ADHD, selective mutism, as well as intellectual, social-emotional and developmental delays and deficits.
Her warm and innate ability to connect with the children and their families encourages them to keep working towards their goals while her creativity makes it fun. Rosa’s goal as an SLP-Assistant is to help her clients achieve their speech and language goals because she understands that communication and comprehension are essential to our human experience.
During her free time, Rosa enjoys trips to the beach, collecting seashells, cooking and baking, painting, and spending time with her family and friends.
Sarah Walkowski, M.S. CCC-SLP
Therapist
Languages: English & Spanish
Sarah earned her M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from Texas Christian University, with an emphasis in bilingual speech-language pathology, and her bachelor’s degree in Spanish Linguistics from UNC Chapel Hill. She is a certified bilingual (English/Spanish) speech-language pathologist.
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Most of her graduate clinical experience was in assessing and treating bilingual (Spanish-English) children with speech and language disorders. She has experience in public schools assessing and treating culturally and linguistically diverse children with communication disorders, including articulation delays/disorders, language delays/disorders, autism, apraxia, fluency disorders, and AAC.
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Sarah is passionate about providing early intervention services to bilingual populations. She believes in the positive impact of natural learning environments and collaborating with families and professionals to provide patient-centered services that align with families’ needs and values.
During her free time, Sarah enjoys traveling, going on walks with her dogs, and spending time with friends and family.
Sendy Jaro, A.S. SLP-Assistant
Therapist Assistant
Languages: English & Spanish
Sendy is originally from Cali, Colombia and is a native Spanish speaker. She moved to the US where she’s lived in Illinois and North Carolina. After earning an Associate Degree in General Education and Panoltia Interpreter for Educators Certification she went on to pursue an Associate in Applied Science degree in the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Program at Fayetteville Technical Community College.
Serena Haller, M.S. CCC-SLP
TherapisT
Languages: English
Serena Haller is an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist licensed in North Carolina and California. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Communicative Sciences and Disorders and Psychology and a Master of Science in Speech, Language, Hearing, and Occupational Sciences from the University of Montana. She has clinical experience working with adult and pediatric populations in private clinics, school systems, and hospitals. She aspires to help individuals realize their communicative potential by establishing a highly individualized plan of care to improve their quality of life and daily functions. She employs evidence-based therapeutic methods of the highest quality, integrating a multidisciplinary approach that considers family objectives and incorporates insights from the therapist. Child-led therapy approaches are used to promote fun and engagement throughout therapy sessions.
Serena has experience assisting individuals with diverse abilities and challenges, including receptive and expressive language delays, auditory processing disorder, autism spectrum disorder, stuttering impairment, voice impairment, aphasia, intellectual disabilities, apraxia of speech, and speech-sound disorders.
Outside work, she enjoys hiking, biking, camping, making art, exploring/traveling, and participating in community events.
Victoria Coblentz, B.S. SLP-Assistant
Therapist Assistant
Languages: English
Victoria earned a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science from Arizona State University - Tempe. Since then, she has gained experience working in natural environments, public schools, and private outpatient care. She has experience working with individuals of all ages with articulation/phonological delays and disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders, Pragmatics, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, and Down syndrome.
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Victoria is committed to helping individuals learn how to improve speech, language, and communication skills. She believes in making therapy fun and functional to help individuals achieve their goals.
Victoria enjoys spending her free time with her family, dog, reading, and being outside in the sunshine!
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Our Team
Carolina Speak Now prides itself on finding exceptional staff and therapists in North Carolina. They are professional, the best at what they do, and love helping children.