Meet The Owner

Hi, I’m Valerie, I’m a bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist fluent in English and Spanish, licensed in California and certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). I’m also a proud parent to a neurodiverse son, which has shaped my perspective and deepened my commitment to supporting families with empathy and care.

With a Master’s degree from Emerson College and years of experience supporting children and families in homes, clinics, and schools, I specialize in working with infants, toddlers, and young children — especially during those early, foundational years when communication is just beginning to take shape.

Supporting families through California’s Early Start program is at the heart of what I do. I understand that starting early intervention can come with many questions and emotions. My goal is to make this journey feel warm, collaborative, and empowering from the very beginning. Whether we’re working on first words, exploring AAC, or building everyday routines that support communication, I’m here to guide, support, and celebrate with you.

I’m committed to honoring each child’s unique voice, embracing neurodiversity, and creating inclusive, culturally responsive spaces where families feel truly seen and supported. I continue to learn and grow alongside the incredible families I serve — and I’m so grateful to be part of this important work..

Certifications, Credentials & Trainings

  • ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence

  • CA State SLP License

  • CA SLP Credential

  • Open Access AAC Implementer

  • Trained in PECS Level 1&2

  • Trained in Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP)

Meet the Ilumina Team

  • Deborah

    SLP SUPERVISIOR

    Deborah is a dedicated speech-language pathologist with nine years of experience supporting individuals with diverse speech and language needs. She has extensive expertise working with children and young adults, providing individualized therapy for a wide range of communication challenges — from common speech sound disorders to complex language-based communication impairments.

    She specializes in working with autism spectrum disorder, childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Deborah is Hanen-certified, listed in the Apraxia Kids Directory, and has completed advanced training through Apraxia Kids. She also holds an Open Access Tier 2 AAC certification, equipping her to help clients find their voice through robust AAC systems.

    With a passion for empowering families and clients, Deborah is committed to evidence-based practice, family-centered care, and helping every individual reach their fullest communication potential.

  • Veronica

    SLPA

    My name is Veronica Guitron and I am a bilingual Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with 18 years experience working with children and families. My education background includes a Bachelor's degree in Communicative Disorders and Master's in Early Childhood Special Education, both of which fuel my passion for supporting the growth and development of young learners. My professional experience includes extensive work in early intervention helping young children with communication delays build essential skills. I am also a proud mother of two, who have profoundly shaped my perspective. Through them, I've gained firsthand appreciation for the milestones and challenges of communication development, enriching the care and understanding I bring to my work every day. As a bilingual professional fluent in English and Spanish, I deeply value cultural responsiveness and the opportunity to connect with diverse communities. My goal is to make speech therapy meaningful in each client's life, building trust and growth so that every family feels supported and understood on their journey.

  • Angie

    SLPA

    Hi, I’m Angie Diaz, a licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with over 18 years of experience in early intervention. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and have dedicated my career to supporting infants, toddlers, and their families during the most critical years of language development.

    My biggest inspiration—and the heart behind my work—is my son, who has autism. Through him, I’ve learned the true meaning of patience, resilience, and unconditional love. His journey has shaped the way I approach each family I work with. I relate deeply to many of the families I serve, and I understand the unique challenges and joys that come with supporting a child’s development.

    It’s a privilege to walk alongside families, helping them nurture their child’s communication skills through play, connection, and everyday routines. I’m passionate about building strong relationships and making early intervention a collaborative, empowering, and joyful experience for everyone involved.

  • Jessica

    SLPA

    Hi! I’m Jessica, a licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with 18 years of experience in early intervention. My greatest passion is creating a nurturing and motivating environment where little ones feel confident to explore, connect, and grow in their communication skills.

    I hold a degree in Psychology and Spanish from the University of California, Riverside. I bring a strong background in Floor Play, Toddler Language Development, Articulation, Oral Motor Speech Development, and American Sign Language.

    I feel truly fortunate to support families during these important early years. It brings me so much joy to be part of each child’s journey, helping them build a strong foundation for communication through play, connection, and encouragement.