About Us
Your SmallTalk team is dedicated to the success of your child.
Why We’re Here
At SmallTalk, our mission is to help kids grow with confidence, joy, and connection through playful, meaningful therapy. We specialize in child-led, play-based speech and occupational therapy that meets each child where they are and supports them in building the skills they need for everyday life.
We believe in the power of fun, the importance of connection, and the progress that happens when families, therapists, and communities work together. For more than 20 years, we have been a trusted partner for families throughout San Diego, offering compassionate, evidence-based care that is as personalized as it is effective.
Whether it is a first word, a new skill, or a major breakthrough, we are here to celebrate every win and support every step forward with expertise, empathy, and a whole lot of heart.
Our Mission
We turn play into progress—empowering children and families through personalized, child-led therapy rooted in joy, trust, and evidence.
Our Vision
A world where every child can communicate, connect, and thrive.
Meet Our Founder
When Jen Traina earned her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 2000, she couldn’t have imagined where the path would lead. She only knew she loved kids, was passionate about communication, and had a gift for connecting with people. She began her career in public schools and at a children’s hospital, but after five years, her perspective shifted dramatically—she became the parent of a premature son who needed therapy. Navigating a complex medical system, enduring long drives, and sitting in crowded waiting rooms made her determined to create a better option for families in San Diego.
In 2005, SmallTalk was born in a cozy 300-square-foot office in El Cajon. From the start, it was more than a clinic—it was a safe, welcoming space where children thrived and families felt supported. Word spread, trust grew, and SmallTalk expanded into multiple clinics across San Diego. Through it all, Jen’s vision has stayed the same: warm, family-centered care that builds lifelong connections. Many families have been with us from toddlerhood to graduation—because here, therapy is about more than progress. It’s about growing together.
Our Core Values
Fun
Therapy should be fun—and effective. We use play as our foundation because it motivates kids and supports real, lasting growth.
Dedicated
We’re here to help kids grow—and we invest just as deeply in the growth of our team, our families, and our community.
Empathetic
Every family is different, and every journey is unique. We meet you with understanding, without judgment, and always with hope.
Knowledgeable
Our therapists are highly trained, always learning, and committed to using the most effective, evidence-backed approaches.
Our Core Values
Fun
Therapy should be fun—and effective. We use play as our foundation because it motivates kids and supports real, lasting growth.
Dedicated
We’re here to help kids grow—and we invest just as deeply in the growth of our team, our families, and our community.
Empathetic
Every family is different, and every journey is unique. We meet you with understanding, without judgment, and always with hope.
Knowledgeable
Our therapists are highly trained, always learning, and committed to using the most effective, evidence-backed approaches.
Meet the Team
Speech-Language
Pathologists
Occupational
Therapists
Leadership &
Support
Become a
SmallTalker
SmallTalk is home to the most caring, skilled and helpful speech and occupational therapists in San Diego. Join the SmallTalk family and help awesome children and families thrive in our community.
