Meet Megan McKenna, Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist

Megan McKenna, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a pediatric speech-language pathologist and certified autism specialist. She helps children build meaningful communication skills through neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed care. At Plum Tree, Megan focuses on each child’s strengths, interests, and unique communication style.

Megan earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science and her clinical Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She brings more than 10 years of experience supporting children with communication needs. Megan has worked in homes, schools, private clinics, hospital outpatient clinics, and university clinics. She also has experience in leadership, administration, and clinical education.

Autism Evaluations and Communication Support

Megan specializes in supporting young children and families with communication differences and disabilities. She has a special focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and communication development. Over the years, Megan has completed extensive continuing education in autism and early childhood communication.

Megan is trained to administer the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). She takes a communication-focused approach to the autism diagnostic process. Her goal is to provide autism evaluations that reflect the whole child. She believes every evaluation should be thorough, strengths-based, and meaningful for families.

Speech-Language Therapy Approach

Megan is a certified Hanen Centre provider and offers More Than Words and TalkAbility programs. These programs support communication development in children with autism and social communication differences.

She also provides Early Intervention (EI) services in Illinois. In addition, Megan holds a professional educator license to deliver speech-language services in Illinois public schools.

Megan believes in child-led, play-based speech-language therapy. She creates engaging sessions based on each child’s interests. Her goal is to help children make meaningful and functional progress. She also values strong relationships with families and caregivers.

Life Outside of Work

Megan lives in the Fox Valley area with her husband, daughter, and two rescue dogs. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, caring for houseplants, and practicing yoga.