Our Team
Rachel Chalom (she/her)
M.S., CCC-SLP
I’m an autistic speech therapist and the founder of Choose Kind Therapy. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and my Master’s degree from the University of South Florida. During grad school, I completed a thesis titled Aligning Voice and Communication with Identity – A Survey on Transgender and Gender Diverse Populations, which really shaped how I think about identity, autonomy, and what meaningful, person-centered care should actually look like.
My passion is empowering my clients with identity-affirmative, inclusive care. First and foremost, I specialize in working with Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs) using the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) Framework, non-ableist pragmatic language therapy, and in gender-affirming care. I find it so rewarding to empower others to find joy in expressing their unfiltered, authentic selves using my own lived experience along with current research and intervention methods.
I also pride myself in working with clients in the following areas: language, speech, self-advocacy, vocal cord dysfunction (VCD), feeding, such as selective eating and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), dynamic communication needs such as those with alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) devices, verbal diversity for stuttering, and parent/caregiver coaching.
No two brains work the same and therapy should mirror that. I provide individualized treatment plans and therapy services tailored to my client’s unique needs. It is important that my clients feel safe, secure, and affirmed in their identities. My goal is authenticity in self-expression through communication and providing skills to help my clients live their lives to the fullest.
Over the years, I have acquired the following training and certifications:
In my free time, I love to travel, watch all things horror, and spend time with my wife, cat, and dog. One of my favorite things is a slow spring afternoon at the National Cathedral, reading and just being present. I look forward to working with you!
Caleigh Fogel M.S., CCC-SLP
Hi, I’m Caleigh (pronounced “Cali”)! I’m a neurodivergent speech-language pathologist newly based in the DC area. I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Loyola University Maryland. My clinical experience includes supporting elementary-aged children with diverse communication needs in school settings. In 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to live and work as a speech therapist at a private practice in Australia, broadening my perspective and skills.
My therapy approach is child-led and relationship-based. I firmly believe that building meaningful connections is the foundation for fostering language development. By incorporating play and a child’s special interests into therapy, I create an engaging and supportive environment where learning thrives. I’m especially passionate about working with Gestalt Language Processors (GLP) and Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) users. I am an NLA Trained Clinician and have fully completed the Meaningful Speech course! My experience in schools has also strengthened my dedication to advocating for students and ensuring their voices are heard in academic settings.
Beyond my work, I’m an animal enthusiast and volunteer with the Wildlife Rescue League. I also have a love for adventure and enjoy spending my free time backpacking and exploring new places around the world!
I am currently taking clients in Northern VA and DC!
