Empowering those who need a different approach to communication.
Communication is a fundamental piece of the human experience. And yet, it doesn’t come easily to all.
It’s defined as “the act of using words, sounds, signs, or behavior to express or exchange information” (Merriam-Webster, 2025).
The vital piece of this definition?
Communication isn’t limited to speech.
At SoCal Spelling Services, we honor all forms of communication. Using The Spellers Method, we support nonspeakers and individuals with limited or unreliable speech in accessing their voice, expressing their innermost thoughts, and being fully understood—because every person deserves a way to communicate.
What is the Spellers Method?
The Spellers Method is a multidisciplinary approach to communication designed specifically for nonspeakers, minimal speakers, and unreliable speakers. It is best suited for individuals with autism, down syndrome, and other related sensory-motor disorders. It recognizes that many individuals understand far more than they can express, and that difficulties with communication are often related to motor planning and regulation—not intelligence or comprehension.
Rather than relying on speech, which involves incredibly complex fine motor control, The Spellers Method gives us a blueprint for teaching neurodivergent individuals with sensory-motor differences how to communicate through spelling out words on a letterboard or keyboard. The approach emphasizes regulation, sensory support, practicing consistent motor patterns, scaffolding skills until increased independence is reached, strengthening ocularmotor control, and coaching parents, family members, and other professionals to work with the individual with confidence and competence.
If you’re interested in learning more about the methodology, visit the Spellers website below!
No two people are built the same…
So why should communication support be one-size-fits-all?
(Hint: It shouldn’t be!)
At SCSS, we understand that unlocking your child’s voice requires getting to know their unique sensory needs, building a relationship based on trust and co-regulation, and properly supporting their mind-body connection—all while coaching their caregivers every step of the way. It’s so much more than pointing to letters on a board; it’s a holistic approach to communication that weaves together regulation, sensory support, motor planning, ocularmotor skill development, and parent coaching.
If you’re considering trying spelled communication for your child, the door is open, and we’re ready to be your guide. Together, we can pave the way for your child to master their motor skills, unlock their voice, and set their potential free.
What this is.
✔️ A contemporary approach to communication for neurodivergent individuals with autism, apraxia, down syndrome, and other sensory-motor differences.
✔️ An adaptable form of AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) grounded in updated practices for supporting those with motor-based disorders.
✔️ Trauma-informed, sensory-friendly, and person-centered services, with co-regulation, trust, and respect always at the root of what we do.
✔️ A family-centered approach that prioritizes parent education and parent coaching—so that you feel confident supporting your child’s communication at home, in the community, and beyond.
What this isn’t.
✖️ Outdated frameworks of understanding & supporting neurodivergence.
✖️ “Behavior” or “compliance” based expectations.
✖️ Rigid approaches that fail to account for individual needs, differences, and strengths.
✖️ A “drop-off” type of therapy. This method involves you, attending every session, getting on the boards with your child, asking questions to deepen your understanding, and receiving coaching to be the best communication partner (CP) that you can be.
Our Services
Our services come in multiple modalities to meet your family’s needs. Click here to learn more!
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide impactful, empowering communication support through spelling sessions that honor each individual’s intelligence, autonomy, unique sensory-motor profile, and communication goals—all while offering families the education and coaching they need to support their speller’s growth.
Your Questions
This journey will come with lots of questions, and we’re here to answer. Check out our FAQ page through the link below, or contact us to discuss your questions in more depth.
Meet Your Provider
Ashlyn Isaia
Founder, Owner, and Spellers Method Provider
“We feel like we have received a miracle! Watching Corbin share his thoughts and feelings with Ashlyn for the first time in 23 years was like a long awaited dream come true. For the first time in so long, we are filled with hope for his future!”
— Tessa, Parent of a speller
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions, or if you’re ready to begin this incredible journey!
Email
ashlyn@spellers.com
Phone
(425) 530-8717