Gestalt Language Processing is a natural way some individuals develop language by learning and using larger “chunks” of language—such as scripts, song lines, or familiar phrases—before breaking them down into smaller, flexible parts. This style of language development is common among autistic individuals and others who communicate through echolalia or scripting.

GLP-informed therapy benefits children who rely on these scripts to express themselves but need support moving toward more self-generated, flexible language. Instead of trying to eliminate echolalia, this approach recognizes it as meaningful communication and an important step in language development.

Therapy focuses on connection, co-regulation, and modeling. Sessions are child-led, play-based, and centered on expanding the child’s repertoire of natural language models. Clinicians follow the stages of Natural Language Acquisition (NLA), providing rich, varied scripts and helping the child gradually move from whole gestalts to original, spontaneous language. The goal is to nurture authentic communication while honoring the child’s unique way of learning and using language.