Hello! I’m Julie Cota

Specialist Speech and Language Therapist and Sensory Integration Practitioner
Owner of Speech Stuff

As an autistic Speech and Language Therapist, I am dedicated to providing neurodiversity affirming support for children and their families.  

My journey began at Newcastle University, where I pursued my studies in Speech and Language Therapy. Since becoming qualified in 2011, I’ve had the privilege of serving communities in both the North East and Yorkshire within the NHS and in education.  

My experience spans across various settings including community outreach, early years programs, and schools. I’ve also collaborated directly with schools, offering tailored support to children while leading staff training initiatives in speech and language development. 

I firmly believe that effective communication is a cornerstone of daily life, and I am committed to ensuring that every child receives the necessary support to thrive. My areas of expertise include early language development, autism, Gestalt Language Development, speech sound difficulties, and selective mutism. In 2020 I completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Speech Sound Difficulties and in 2025 I qualified as a Sensory Integration Practitioner.  

In 2019, I established Speech Stuff, and in August 2022, we proudly opened The Hive, our welcoming clinic space I the heart of Cramlington Village. Since then our team has grown and watching them positively impact numerous families fills me with immense pride. 

Rebecca Dennis

Specialist Speech and Language Therapist

Rebecca joined the team in 2025 and has over 6 years’ experience working in the NHS with children from birth to secondary school age.
Before working in the NHS she was a Primary school Teacher working with children in Nursery and Reception.
Rebecca specialises in working with children with Stammering and Speech Sound difficulties. She also has lots of experience supporting children’s early language development.
She is passionate about supporting children to become confident communicators through fun, play based child-led sessions.

Maureen

Office Administrator

Maureen has over 30 years experience as an administrator.
She’s our office manager, administrator and part-time receptionist.

Toni 

Receptionist and Social Media Wizard

Toni is one of our friendly part time receptionists, working alongside her studies at university.  She welcomes our families and supports us with resources and our Social Media. Toni joined the team in July 2022 just before we opened The Hive.  

Isla

Receptionist

 Isla is one of our friendly part time receptionists, welcoming families on arrival at The Hive.
She joined our team in 2024, and works with us alongside her A-levels. She plans to study Speech and Language Therapy in the future. 

Tony

Non-Clinical Director and Learning Resources 

Tony has an extensive background in technology and application development, and a keen interest in producing mixed media and digital creative resources. He has a passion for everything artistic, from drawing and painting to educational applications and resources. He’s been with Speech Stuff since it was only a seed of an idea.