What does a Speech Language Pathologist do?

A Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) is a highly- trained professional who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats children and adults who have communication difficulties (e.g., language delays, speech sound errors, speech dysfluencies, stuttering, pragmatic difficulties, etc.,) and swallowing disorders (oral motor difficulties, etc.,).

What does an Occupational Therapist do?

An Occupational therapist is a trained professional who help children develop their independence while strengthening development of fine motor skills, sensory motor skills, and visual motor skills for function and socialization. These professionals also provide feeding therapy when children present with sensory based feeding difficulties.

When should I seek the services of an SLP or OT?

If you suspect your child may be delayed in reaching speech and language milestones, delayed in fine and gross motor skills, or having difficulties with sensory and emotional regulation, a good place to start is with the pediatrician. Schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician to discuss concerns and get a referral for a comprehensive evaluation if needed. Your child’s teachers and child-care providers may also be great resources to gather additional information as they have experience about child development. You also have the option to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with us to determine if an evaluation is necessary.

We have informative handouts under the “resource” tab that you may also find helpful in making a decision to seek services.

Do you take insurance?

Currently we do take some insurances. We offer a convenient way for you to check if your insurance plan is accepted by United Therapy Connections. Simply go to the “About” tab on the website, scroll all the way to the bottom, and you will find a section for you to put your insurance information. Once the information is put in, we will be in touch with you shortly.

Are there alternative options for those who do not have insurance and/or insurance plan is not accepted?

Yes! We offer the option to make private payments. We currently accept major credit cards. If requested, we can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

When is payment due? Will there be additional fees associated with late payment or no shows?

Payment is due at the time of services. Following the therapy session with your child, United Therapy Connections will run the credit card that is on file to collect payment. There will be a fee of $25 for returned payments. In the case of a no-show, the full amount of the therapy session will be charged. We value your time and our time; therefore, we kindly ask for a notice of cancellation if you cannot make it to your appointment. Detailed information on payment, cancellations, and fees are detailed in the paperwork you will sign through Simple Practice prior to receiving services. We want you to feel informed every step of the way!

What should I expect at the evaluation appointment?

You and your child will meet the SLP and review the intake/case history information. There might be additional questions for parents to ensure a comprehensive understanding of concerns. Typically, when assessing very young children parent input is critical and we like parent/caregiver to be present. For older children, we ask that they transition independently for the evaluation.

An evaluation can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. This process includes assessment administration and briefly discussing results and recommendations with caregiver. A comprehensive evaluation report will be given to the caregiver (if requested) on the first therapy visit following the evaluation. Caregiver also has the option to request the evaluation report to be sent electronically via email.

Is there any paperwork to fill out prior to the evaluation appointment?

Prior to the evaluation, you will receive an email from Simple Practice with all the paperwork (e.g., case history, HIPPA forms, consent to treat, insurance, etc.,) you need to fill out prior to the appointment. Simple Practice is a secure portal that is HIPPA compliant and where information will be kept confidential.

What is the frequency and duration of therapy sessions?

Treatment sessions are tailored to the specific needs of each child. Following the evaluation, the SLP will recommend either 30 minute or 45-minute sessions, once or twice a week, depending on evaluation results, parent interview, and qualitative observations. An appointment will be set for a particular day and time, and it will remain the same each week.

Did we not answer your question?

Feel free to reach out to us with any additional questions. WE ARE HAPPY TO HEAR FROM YOU!