Meet Cristina!
Cristina Garza, M.S., CCC-SLP
Co-Owner | Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist
Every child deserves the ability to express their wants, needs, and ideas in a way that works best for them. As a bilingual speech-language pathologist, mother of two, and founder of The Social Play, I am dedicated to helping children communicate through multiple modalities to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met. I enjoy creating a language-rich environment where children can explore, play, and grow with confidence. My approach is rooted in play, relationship-building, and providing engaging opportunities for language development. Whether through individualized therapy or language-enrichment classes, I strive to foster curiosity, confidence, and a love for communication in every child I work with.
Credentials:
ASHA Certified Speech-Language Pathologist
Master of Health Sciences in Communication Disorders
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Emphasis in Autism
Meet Yesenia!
Yesenia Salto, M.S., CCC-SLP
Co-Owner | Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist
As a bilingual speech-language pathologist, mother of two, and wife, I bring warmth, optimism, and authenticity to my work. I believe that communication thrives through connection and that knowledge fuels progress. Using play and engaging interactions, I create joyful, supportive sessions where children feel confident expressing themselves. I’m passionate about partnering with parents, offering one-on-one coaching, leading language enrichment classes, and providing practical resources to support communication at home. I believe that a collaborative approach with families fosters the most meaningful and lasting outcomes. By working together, we can empower each child to grow, thrive, and reach their fullest potential.
When I’m not providing therapy, you’ll usually find me savoring quality moments with my family or collaborating with Cristina at The Social Play. There, I contribute to the development and implementation of clinician-led classes, resources, and community outreach programs.
I look forward to serving you and your family with heart and purpose.
Credentials:
ASHA Certified Speech-Language Pathologist
Master of Health Sciences in Communication Disorders
Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Emphasis in Autism
Our Approach
We utilize evidence-based practices while meeting our clients where they are, celebrating their strengths and supporting their challenges with care and compassion. Through a personalized, play-based approach, we create a nurturing and engaging space where children feel safe, confident, and empowered to grow—helping them find their voice and reach their full potential.
Read...
Our Story
Yesenia and Cristina are first-generation Mexican-American bilingual speech-language pathologists, lifelong friends, and co-owners of The Social Play Pediatric Therapy.
Their journey began in 2013 at Governors State University, where they met during their undergraduate studies. Over countless cups of coffee and late-night study sessions, they built a friendship grounded in a shared determination to make a difference in the world. Together, they supported one another through two master’s programs—first in Applied Behavior Analysis, then in Speech-Language Pathology.
As they entered the field, they discovered a deeper purpose and not just in supporting children, but in truly empowering families and walking alongside them every step of the way.
They would often call each other to talk through ideas and challenges. Every conversation ended the same way: “When are we going to start our private practice?” “When are we going to open our own center?” We always knew we had more to offer. More heart, more guidance, more meaningful support.
Then one day, Cristina called and said, “I’ve got it. It’s not going to be a center, it’s going to be a play café.”
And just like that, everything clicked and they began to think of all the different ways to make it come to life.
Cristina and her husband opened The Social Play Café—a cozy, language-rich space for families with young children. Shortly after, Yesenia and Cristina made their lifelong partnership official by launching The Social Play Pediatric Therapy.
Together, Yesenia and Cristina offer direct speech therapy service, caregiver resources, community outreach events, and one-of-a-kind clinician-led enrichment classes.
They are deeply grateful to do this work and look forward to welcoming families into their community.
.
Ready to Empower Your Child’s Communication Journey?
Whether you have questions or are ready to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re here to support you and your little ones every step of the way!