Meet Cristina!
Cristina Garza, M.S., CCC-SLP
Co-Founder | Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist
Every child deserves the ability to express their wants, needs, and ideas in a way that works best for them. As a bilingual speech-language pathologist, mother of two, and founder of The Social Play, I am dedicated to helping children communicate through multiple modalities to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met. I enjoy creating a language-rich environment where children can explore, play, and grow with confidence. My approach is rooted in play, relationship-building, and providing engaging opportunities for language development. Whether through individualized therapy or language-enrichment classes, I strive to foster curiosity, confidence, and a love for communication in every child I work with.
Credentials:
ASHA Certified Speech-Language Pathologist
Master of Health Sciences in Communication Disorders
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Emphasis in Autism
Meet Yesenia!
Yesenia Salto, M.S., CCC-SLP
Co-Founder | Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist
As a bilingual speech-language pathologist, mother of two, and wife, I bring warmth, optimism, and authenticity to my work. I believe that communication thrives through connection—and that knowledge fuels progress. Using play and engaging interactions, I create joyful, supportive sessions where children feel confident expressing themselves. I’m passionate about partnering with parents, offering one-on-one coaching, leading language enrichment classes, and providing practical resources to support communication at home. I believe that a collaborative approach with families fosters the most meaningful and lasting outcomes. By working together, we can empower each child to grow, thrive, and reach their fullest potential.
When I’m not providing therapy, you’ll usually find me savoring quality moments with my family or collaborating with Cristina at The Social Play. There, I contribute to the development and implementation of clinician-led classes, resources, and community outreach programs.
I look forward to serving you and your family with heart and purpose.
Credentials:
ASHA Certified Speech-Language Pathologist
Master of Health Sciences in Communication Disorders
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Emphasis in Autism
Our Approach
We utilize evidence-based practices while meeting our clients where they are, celebrating their strengths and supporting their challenges with care and compassion. Through a personalized, play-based approach, we create a nurturing and engaging space where children feel safe, confident, and empowered to grow—helping them find their voice and reach their full potential.
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Our Story
We met in 2013 while completing our undergraduate coursework at Governors State University, where we formed our friendship over endless cups of coffee, study dates, and a shared determination to make our families proud. As first-generation Mexican-Americans and the first in our families to pursue master’s degrees, we supported each other every step of the way, determined to pave the path for others like us.
In a field where only 8% of professionals are minorities and just 6% are Hispanic or Latino, we often felt the odds were stacked against us. But we tirelessly and relentlessly worked together toward our dream of helping families with diverse needs. Then, that dream hit a roadblock—we were waitlisted for graduate school. It felt as if our world was falling apart, but rather than give up, we chose to pivot.
Determined to keep growing and follow our purpose of serving children with diverse needs, we pursued our first master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with an emphasis in Autism from Ball State University. That same year, we reapplied to the Speech-Language Pathology program, were admitted, and we proudly earned our second master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Governors State University.
Here’s the thing about us—we don’t give up. Not on ourselves, not on each other, and certainly not on the families we serve. You can always count on us to put your child first, ensuring they receive the compassionate and dedicated support they deserve.
Ready to Empower Your Child’s Communication Journey?
Whether you have questions or are ready to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re here to support you and your little ones every step of the way!