When a child is having issues with learning, speech clarity, or social interactions, parents may not know where to turn. Helping those with communication issues is the specialty of Princeton Speech-Language & Learning Center (PSLLC). Founded in 1989, the center has two locations - one in Princeton and, since 2022, another in Madison.
“We really strive to provide quality, individualized therapeutic services, “says Marcie Fountaine, co-owner and clinical director. The vision of the clinic focuses on helping individuals of all ages, but particularly children and young adults, develop essential speech, language and social communication skills.
One of the big differences that sets this private practice apart from school-based services is that the staff works with the whole family. “Of course, we want to support children’s academic needs, but we also want to support them at home and in the community,” says Carole Drury, co-owner and director of business operations.
Parents turn to PSLLC because research has shown that effective speech-language therapy and academic support at the right time can greatly improve a child’s chances of success in school and in life. Early intervention is key and for this reason, the center accepts children as young as two.
“There’s no risk in having your child evaluated,” says Marcie. “However, if there’s a delay that is not identified, the gap in development will continue to grow.”
The clinic treats students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, receptive and expressive language delays, articulation difficulties, and literacy weaknesses. Additionally, PSLLC specializes in supporting social communication, better known as social skills, in a neurodivergent affirming manner. There’s the opportunity to address these skills in either individual or group therapy from preschool through the teenage years. While many people assume social difficulties primarily impact a child’s ability to relate to their peers, it can also impact a child’s awareness of expectations in different environments and perspective-taking skills. Weak perspective-taking skills can influence reading comprehension and/or the ability to follow character motivations in television shows and movies.
To help clients, the center offers a licensed staff who are highly trained with advanced degrees. “The entire staff at PSLLC stays up-to-date with current trends in therapy to provide the most effective, evidence-based therapeutic approaches,“ says Marcie. Instead of a clinical setting, both centers have a welcoming and warm atmosphere, and children (and adults) arrive and leave happy.
“The field of speech-language pathology is incredibly rewarding,” adds Carole. “We build positive connections with families and provide services that enhance a child’s ability to express their thoughts and ideas and improve their abilities to interact with peers. We view our clients like family, and it is incredibly satisfying to witness their progress.”
PSLLC offers free phone consultations and listens carefully to parents to figure out what is going on and to determine the type of services needed. “We want to ensure that whatever the parent is looking for, we’re guiding them in the appropriate direction,” says Marcie. “If they’re calling for a service that we can’t provide, then I make the necessary referral.”
For more information, visit PSLLCNJ.com or call 609-924-7080.
“There is no risk in having your child evaluated.”