Individualized speech therapy
& coaching all in

Shaina Aktan is an ASHA-certified and California-licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, and the Founder & CEO of Shaina Speaks Therapy & Coaching, Inc., a practice serving San Diego County and clients virtually across California.

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With over a decade of experience across private practice, healthcare, and educational settings, Shaina is recognized for her dynamic, relationship-centered approach to communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. Her work is grounded in the belief that communication is a fundamental human right, and that every individual deserves access to meaningful, autonomous ways of expressing themselves.

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Shaina specializes in supporting Autistic individuals and individuals with complex communication needs like Apraxia of Speech and Cerebral Palsy, with a strong emphasis on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). She is passionate about advancing access to robust, multimodal communication systems and empowering individuals to communicate beyond limitations across environments, partners, and contexts. Her approach prioritizes not only skill development, but also the creation of systems and supports that foster true participation, agency, and connection.

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In the area of feeding and swallowing, Shaina is committed to promoting safety, efficiency, and dignity, ensuring that individuals can engage in mealtimes as meaningful, enjoyable, and socially connected experiences.

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Beyond direct clinical care, Shaina is a sought-after consultant, coach and advocate, partnering with families, caregivers, educators, interdisciplinary teams, and academic programs. She is dedicated to building the capacity of communication partners, recognizing that sustainable progress is rooted in shared understanding, advocacy, and collaboration.

Her professional journey began as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA), which continues to inform her strong commitment to mentorship, clinical excellence, and advocacy within the field. She actively supports the development of students, assistants, and clinicians, while contributing to a broader shift toward more inclusive, accessible, and empowering models of care.

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Through her leadership at Shaina Speaks Therapy & Coaching, Inc., Shaina continues to expand a vision of communication without barriers, centered on connection, access, advocacy, and empowerment, for individuals and communities alike.​

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