Frequently Asked Questions
1. What services do you provide as a speech-language pathologist?
I offer speech and language therapy for both children and adults, addressing a range of communication disorders such as articulation, language delays, stuttering, and social pragmatic difficulties.
2. Do you work with both children and adults?
Yes, I work with individuals of all ages, from young children to adults.
3. What types of speech or language issues can you help with?
I assist with a variety of conditions, including articulation and phonological disorders, expressive and receptive language delays, stuttering, and social communication disorders.
4. What is your approach to therapy?
My approach is highly individualized, focusing on the specific needs and goals of each client. I use creative, mindful, evidence-based strategies to promote effective communication and work with families and caregivers to support progress outside of therapy. I strive to make therapy both effective and enjoyable for my clients.
5. My child receives speech therapy at his/her public school. Why should I pay for additional speech and language services?
Many speech and language therapy services in public schools are delivered in groups of 3 or more students for 10 - 20 minutes. I work with clients one-on-one in longer sessions, allowing them to receive more focused treatment that often results in faster progress, especially when working in collaboration with the school-based speech-language pathologist.
In addition, public school speech language pathologists typically only work on goals that are impacting students academically. As a private practitioner, I have more flexibility to work on a variety of communication skills that the child needs, and am able to incorporate additional goals that the family desires.
Finally, private therapy is more consistent. Public school therapy is often canceled due to assemblies, testing, IEP meeting schedule conflicts, holidays, and field trips. With private therapy, missed sessions can be rescheduled and can be continued throughout the summer.
6. My child didn’t qualify for speech at his/her public school. Does that mean he/she doesn’t need speech and language support?
Not necessarily. While special education services are incredibly valuable for children with more significant delays or disabilities, there are many children who have mild to moderate speech and language delays that don’t meet the criteria for special education. These delays, however, can still impact their academic performance, social interactions, and overall confidence, especially as they start school and are expected to keep up with peers in terms of language and communication. For children with mild delays, intervention through private speech therapy can make a world of difference.
7. How long are therapy sessions?
Sessions are typically 30 minutes long, but the duration can be adjusted based on the client’s needs and the type of therapy being provided.
8. How often will therapy sessions be scheduled?
The frequency of sessions depends on the individual’s goals and progress. For most clients, I recommend starting with twice weekly sessions for consistent and steady progress.
9. How long will I/my child need to be in speech therapy?
The duration of speech therapy is variable depending on the client’s goals, level of family support, and commitment to home practice.
10. Do you offer online sessions?
Yes, depending on the needs being addressed, I offer both in-person and online speech therapy sessions.
11. How much does therapy cost?
My fees vary depending on the type and length of the session. Please contact me directly for more detailed information about rates.
12. Do you accept insurance?
I do not accept insurance at this time. Many of my clients use a Health Savings Account (HSA) to cover the cost of therapy.
13. Why don’t you accept insurance?
I prefer to focus entirely on the client’s individual needs without restrictions from insurance companies regarding the number of sessions or types of services offered. This allows for more flexibility and individualized treatment plans.
14. Do you offer consultations before starting therapy?
Yes, I offer an initial consultation to assess your or your child’s needs, discuss potential goals, and determine the best course of treatment.
15. How do I know if speech therapy is right for me or my child?
If you or your child are experiencing difficulties with communication, whether it's speech clarity, language development, or social communication, a speech therapy evaluation can help determine if intervention is needed.
16. How do I schedule an appointment?
You can contact me through email to schedule an initial consultation or therapy session. I will work with you to find a convenient time.