Based in Oceanside, CA, Spellers Center San Diego is a community-based coaching hub where nonspeakers explore self-expression through the Spellers Method.
We Are You
Spellers Center SD was founded by a mom, Dawnmarie Gaivin (aka “DM”), who understands what it feels like to never hear her child speak and to wonder if she’d ever know his thoughts. By teaching him to spell on a letterboard in 2015, she unlocked his voice and now she’s dedicated her career to helping other families share the same joyful experience.
You Belong Here
The environment at Spellers Center SD is one where you are invited to come just as you are, and that means both you and your nonspeaker. You will not be judged by DM or her team. You belong here. And we will collaborate to understand your voice and support your path toward clearer, confident communication. Where there’s a will, plus a “ride-or-die” provider, there’s a way!
Our Team
Dawnmarie Gaivin
Founder RN, BSN, AT-ACP DM is the co-creator of the Spellers Method as well as the founder of Spellers Center - San Diego, a center based in Oceanside, CA, focused on spelling and purposeful communication support. Utilizing her extensive background in assistive technology, spelling for communication methodologies, as well as DIR/Floortime, she has spoken at many national conferences including NAA, TACA, & Autism One. As a parent of two nonspeakers who use letterboards, she knows firsthand the journey families experience on the road to fluency. Dawnmarie is also on the board of Spellers Freedom Foundation, a nonprofit helping nonspeakers create legendary futures for themselves.
Ashlyn Isaia
Spellers Method Provider Spellers Community Manager Ashlyn joined the Spellers Center San Diego team in the fall of 2022 and is ready to help unlock the voices of spellers in her community. She is a person who stutters, which has led her to help others who also live with communication obstacles. After earning her bachelor degree in Speech-Language Pathology, working as a behavioral therapist, followed by several years as an aide in the school districts working with students with special needs, her best friend Johnny (the one and only provider himself!) finally introduced her to the world of letterboard communication. When not working with spellers, you can catch Ashlyn at the beach, roller skating, or reading a good book. You can reach Ashlyn at ashlyn@spellers.com.
Jonathan Perez
Spellers Method Provider Johnny is a full-time Spellers Method Instructor at Spellers Center - San Diego. A lifelong athlete with a passion for helping others, Johnny previously worked in a nutrition shop while earning his AA in Kinesiology and a BS in Speech Language Pathology from Cal State University San Marcos. He was first introduced to the world of spelling in 2020 through his best friend Evan, Dawnmarie’s eldest son. Since then, Johnny has specialized in working with autistic teens and those with impulsive and busy bodies. A word from Dawnmarie: “After seeing Johnny quickly become my teenage son’s favorite communication partner, I knew I wanted him to join Spellers. His immense empathy and fun-loving nature give him an unmatched ability to connect with his clients. He has a talent for being able to work with active kiddos and those with impulsive bodies like my son.” Jonathan joined forces with Dawnmarie in March 2021 and you can reach him at jonathan@spellers.com.
Kyra Daffron
Spellers Method Provider Originally from Orange County with a background working in childcare, Kyra moved to San Diego in 2021 and began working as a caregiver to a nonspeaker, which kickstarted her passion for aiding the autism community. After watching the spellers movie... 3 times, Kyra was eager to become a Spellers Method provider in order to give every nonspeaker the opportunity to embrace the freedom of spelling. In her freetime, Kyra enjoys cooking, visiting coffee shops, hanging by the beach, and of course, cuddling her cat, Pinot Grigio.
Hadas Gabai
Spellers Method Provider Hadas joined Spellers Center San Diego in the winter of 2024, bringing a unique background in language, communication, and movement. A graduate of Portland State University with a B.A. in Spanish, Hadas is also a Certified Personal Trainer specializing in biomechanics. After completing her I-ASC S2C training in June 2024, she collaborated with the Hawaii Autism Foundation and taught Purposeful Movement classes. Her lived experience recovering from a spinal injury after eight years as a firefighter gives her a powerful connection to those navigating brain-body challenges. In her free time, Hadas is an enthusiastic ultra-trail runner who loves exploring mountain trails and scenic routes. She also treasures moments with her senior therapy dog, Dublin, whose companionship is a constant source of joy and inspiration.
Brielle Butler
Spellers Method Provider Born and raised in Oceanside, Brielle graduated from Cal State University San Marcos with a degree in Speech Language Pathology. She began her career in 2021 as a before and after school aide, originally planning to become an SLP for young children. However, after discovering the Spellers Method, Brielle found a new passion for supporting the nonspeaking community and empowering each individual to communicate in their own way. In her free time, you can catch Brielle at the beach, spending time with friends, or hanging out with her fur baby, Hank.
Kate Gould
Spellers Center San Diego & Ohana Days Senior Operations Manager Kate Gould brings a deep commitment to equity, care, and community to her role as Senior Operations Manager. With a career rooted in serving underserved populations, Kate combines strategic leadership with hands-on experience in both direct care and organizational management. She holds a BA in Psychology from New York University, a Master of Divinity from the Iliff School of Theology, and a Professional Certificate in Equitable Community Change from Cornell University. Kate’s professional journey includes direct support for non-speaking neurodivergent adults and overseeing the operations of a multidisciplinary clinic serving children and adults with diverse abilities. Her work reflects a passion for inclusive systems and sustainable impact. Outside of work, Kate finds her greatest joy in parenting her two sons, ages 10 and 13, and cherishes time spent with them exploring, learning, and growing together.
SC San Diego Contact Form
Contact Us
Spellers Center San Diego
Ask us about the Spellers Method, clinic services, availability, and scheduling.
Phone
760-536-3896
Address
4055 Oceanside Blvd, Suite B, Oceanside CA 92056
Hours
Monday through Friday
9 am to 5 pm PT