Wallingford Small Business Spotlight: Therapy for Language and Communication

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Business: Therapy for Language and Communication
Owners: Lynn M. LaValley
Website: www.tlcspeechct.com
Address: 300 Church Street Unit 102 Wallingford,CT 06492

How did you come up with the name? I wanted to help people realize that speech-language pathologists do more than articulation. I feel passionate about helping other communicate, in whatever way they can.

Why start a business in this town? I am a resident in Wallingford and wanted to provide my services in my community.

Briefly, what business are you in? We are a private, outpatient, pediatric speech-language clinic.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner? The most difficult challenge I’ve faced as a business owner is being a business owner. I am a therapist first, and after practicing for 13 years, it is hard to switch to a business owner’s mindset.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening? On May 1, 2015, Therapy for Language and Communication moved locations and expanded to its current address. We more than doubled in size from when we started, less than 2 years ago. Although we’ve grown and expanded, we continue to provide the highest quality speech and language therapy, and give each child and family 100%.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community? Since opening in September, 2013, each fall TLC offers free speech and language screenings to local preschools including See Us Grow, Educational Playcare, and I’m Special. Through this program, we have been able to identify a number of children who need services, and provide early intervention which is so important. TLC has also participated in the Wallingford Board of Education Special Education Resource Fair, as well as the ASRC’s resource fair.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@ patch.com.