MEET THE FOUNDER

The soul behind The Speecherie

The Speecherie was founded in 2025 as a response to service disparities for young children receiving speech and language services within Erie County.

The Speecherie founder, Abigail (Abbie) Reilly-Eckstrom, is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, holding a Master of Arts Degree in Speech-Language Pathology (MA, SLP) and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA). Abbie is licensed in Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. She is deeply committed to supporting young children and their families through thoughtful, collaborative care. She believes communication is an innate right, essential to connection, confidence, and children's autonomy.

Alongside her career, Abbie's greatest accomplishment is her family. As a mom of three young children, she pulls from her own experiences navigating motherhood, past and present, to shape her interactions with other parents and caregivers. She prides herself on maintaining an empathetic, judgment-free atmosphere where connection is paramount. Some of her favorite reminders are “We’re all in this together,” “We’re all just doing the best we can,” and “If you’re worried you’re not a good parent, it’s because you are one.”

Her professional background includes extensive work with d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing children, American Sign Language, bilingualism in signed and spoken languages, family-based early intervention (ages birth to three), early school-age (ages three to ~five), and various out-patient services throughout the lifespan. Through these experiences, she found a passion for supporting language development through family-centered and culturally responsive practices. Her experiences have culminated in a unique perspective and purpose to ensure all families receive and understand equitable and accessible options to support their child’s success.

In addition to her clinical work, Abbie has served in leadership and advisory roles within the broader speech and hearing community and in early childhood education, reflecting her ongoing devotion to the field, new clinicians, and the children and families we serve. Her approach is rooted in the belief that children deserve excited and safe adults who continue to pour into our community. When families thrive, children thrive, communities thrive.

What We Believe

At The Speecherie, we strive to create a warm, welcoming, and safe space where children feel comfortable and confident, families feel heard and supported, and possibilities feel endless far beyond the classroom or clinic.

WHAT GUIDES OUR PRACTICE

Early Connection

It’s never too early to set your child up for success through language-rich environments.

Individual Strengths

Treatment is tailored to each child’s unique way of communicating and connecting.

Family Support

We encourage and recommend family engagement throughout all interactions.