Meet Our Team
Laura Willoughby, M.S., CCC-SLP
Owner, Speech-Language Pathologist
Laura received her bachelor’s degree in communication science and education of the deaf from Washington State University and her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from Idaho State University. Laura started Communicate Therapy Services 11 years ago after working in the schools and out-patient settings. Currently, she supports clients both at her practice and in the public schools.
Laura has extensive experience working with children of all ages and has a passion for working with AAC users and little ones who are developing language. Using play-based therapy, she loves to incorporate art activities and books into her therapy sessions.
Laura understands that every child has something to say with words, gestures, or pictures, and she is dedicated to helping each child express themselves in some way, shape, or form. She also feels that every child needs to feel confident and remember that they are special. Each child is unique and has so much to give to this world.
When Laura is not busy supporting the many families she works with, she enjoys time with family and friends, board games, baking, going on walks, and reading.
Kristen Kuiper, M.S., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kristen received her bachelor’s degree in cognitive and speech development from Trinity Christian College and her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from Calvin College. Kristen began her career with Communicate Therapy Services, working with children in the Infant Toddler Program, public schools, and in the clinic.
Kristen sees each child as uniquely created by God and therefore is passionate about helping improve their communication skills by focusing on each child's strengths in a fun and encouraging environment. Kristen's easy going personality allows her to connect with children and their families, creating an adaptable environment where each client's unique needs are met.
Outside of work, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband, playing disc golf, and staying involved with her church.
Erica Maier, M.S., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Erica received her bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Nevada and her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from Idaho State University. Prior to joining the team at Communicate Therapy Services, Erica worked with children in early intervention and the public schools. At Communicate Therapy Services, Erica specializes in early language development, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), autism spectrum disorder, and speech-sound disorders.
Erica enjoys collaborating with parents and caregivers to make a real, functional impact on her clients' abilities to interact with the world around them. She loves to get to know her clients and their families to establish trusting relationships to ensure her therapy is meaningful to their lives.
Outside of work, Erica enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and their two dogs doing pretty much anything outdoors!
Emilee Barish, M.S., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Emilee received her bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders from Penn State University and her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from East Tennessee State. At Communicate Therapy Services, Emilee hopes to serve as many children in the community with communication needs as possible.
Emilee loves being able to involve her clients' families in therapy whenever possible. She is committed to empowering families with the tools to create and build upon language learning opportunities at home in order to help their child's communication skills grow. Emilee loves working with children, their energy, curiosity, and watching them learn and grow!
In her free time, you will find Emilee attempting to master a new Pinterest recipe, cheering on Penn State sports, reading, or going on outdoor adventures with her husband, Ryan, and golden retriever, Cooper.
Nicole Quirk-Hill, M.S., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Nicole received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from Idaho State University. Nicole serves as a school-based speech therapist through Communicate Therapy Service's contract school services.
Nicole loves supporting elementary school students as they develop communication and social skills to engage with their learning environment and build peer relationships. In her role as a school-based therapist, she constantly strives to provide therapy activities that are functional for each individual while keeping her students engaged and motivated in the learning process. Nicole believes if she can make just one day easier for the children she serves, she is achieving success in her role.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys reading, cross-stitching, and spending time with her husband and their cat Panda and dog Piper.
Heather Totoricaquena
Administrative Support Specilaist
Heather keeps the Communicate Therapy Services family organized and running efficiently so our therapists can focus on serving their clients. She is the go-to for questions about scheduling, billing, and determining the next steps in the client's therapeutic journey.
Prior to joining the Communicate Therapy Services team, Heather traveled the world with Disney on Ice. When Heather isn't busy with CTS, she is involved with the Basque community and also loves spending time with her husband and children.