Does Rachael work with children?

Yes, Rachael works with children. Pediatric specialties include: Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Down syndrome, Pediatric Cognition, Pediatric Fluency/Stuttering, Pediatric/Adolescent Social-Pragmatics.

Rachael Smith

Q: What does Rachael specialize in?

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Cleft Palate/Cleft Lip, Down syndrome, Early Language Development, Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders, Ped. Articulation/Phonological Disorder, Pediatric Cognition, Pediatric Fluency/Stuttering, Ped. Receptive-Expressive Language, Pediatric/Adolescent Social-Pragmatics, Selective Mutism, Written Language Disorders, Voice

Q: What is Rachael's educational background?

B.S. - University of Central Missouri, M.A. - University of Memphis

Q: What insurances does Rachael accept?

Rachael accepts 11 insurance plans including: Aetna, BCBS, BlueCare, Healthcare Highways, Medicaid, Medical Cost Containment, Medicare, Optum/United Healthcare, Sana Benefits, Tricare Humana, Wellpoint.

Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (M.A, CCC-SLP)

Accepts 11 insurance plans

Hi! I’m Rachael. I became a speech-language pathologist after taking a nontraditional path back to school as a mom. I was drawn to how the field blends medical, developmental, and social care, and I love partnering with families to build communication skills that make everyday interactions easier, more meaningful, and more enjoyable.

My clinical experience spans a variety of pediatric settings, where I support children with diverse speech, language, and communication needs. My therapy approach is functional, routines-based, and sensory-integrated. I prioritize client-centered and family-focused care, working closely with caregivers to integrate practical strategies into daily life that foster confidence, client empowerment, and self-advocacy.

I am deeply committed to clinical excellence, evidence-based care, and ongoing professional growth. I hold specialized clinical training across multiple augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and platforms, including TD Snap, LAMP Words for Life, Grid, and Scene & Heard, which guides me in customizing communication solutions to fit each child's unique strengths and needs.

Here's what you can expect

Book your evaluation

Pick a time that fits your schedule. Choose a 60-minute evaluation or two 30-minute visits.

Attend your evaluation

You'll talk through what you're looking for and complete an assessment to guide next steps.

Get your personal plan

Rachael will share a plan built around your goals, plus practical recommendations to support progress.

Rachael is in-network with major insurers and accepts 11 insurance plans.

AetnaBCBSBlueCareHealthcare HighwaysMedicaidMedical Cost ContainmentMedicareOptum/United HealthcareSana BenefitsTricare HumanaWellpoint

Therapist details and specialties

states licensed to practice

Tennessee

specialties

Autism Spectrum DisorderChildhood Apraxia of SpeechCleft Palate/Cleft LipDown syndromeEarly Language DevelopmentOrofacial Myofunctional Disorders Ped. Articulation/Phonological DisorderPediatric CognitionPediatric Fluency/StutteringPed. Receptive-Expressive LanguagePediatric/Adolescent Social-PragmaticsSelective MutismWritten Language DisordersVoice

certifications

ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)

professional memberships & affiliations

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

languages spoken

English

Education and training

B.S. - University of Central Missouri

M.A. - University of Memphis

Other interests

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and four children, watercolor painting, birdwatching, and gardening. I especially enjoy activities that get me outdoors and connected with nature.