Rachel Duncan

Rachel Duncan is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and the Director of Speech and Language Services at the Center for Children with Special Needs. Her experience began with her intensive educational background, leading to a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Worcester State University. Rachel currently holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-language Hearing Association. Through her exploration of a multitude of applications for speech and language pathology, she developed a clear passion for early language development and has dedicated her career to helping young children reach their fullest potential.

As the Director of Speech and Language Services here at CCSN, Rachel oversees the development, coordination, and delivery of speech and language services within the center, ensuring the highest quality of care for clients and families. Rachel provides mentorship and support to both speech-language pathologists and speech-language pathology assistants, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to implement comprehensive communication programming for children with autism and other developmental needs. Rachel's role also extends past the clinics in Glastonbury and Farmington, and into the school setting where she provides consultative services for children receiving school-based speech and language services.

Rachel’s clinical expertise includes working within autism-specific clinics to deliver speech and language therapy focused on improving communication, social skills, and functional language. She also supports children across a broad range of abilities by developing individualized treatment plans, conducting assessments, and providing family training. Additionally, Rachel's early career began in early intervention, working with infants and toddlers in the Birth to Three program, where she specialized in supporting early language development and communication skills in children with autism.