Frequently Asked Questions

What is a speech-language pathologist?

A speech-language pathologist, sometimes referred to as a speech therapist, is a professional healthcare provider who has at least a Master's level degree in Speech-Language Pathology. SLPs have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating speech sound disorders, developmental language disorders, stuttering, voice disorders, feeding and swallowing disorders, and cognitive-linguistic disorders.

What if I am unsure if my child needs therapy services or an evaluation?

If you would like to speak with a therapist about your concerns, you can book a free consultation. A free consultation consists of a 15–20 minute phone call where you can speak with a  therapist about your concerns without committing to a full evaluation. The therapist will ask questions about your child’s development, address any concerns you may have, and provide recommendations for your child. 

How should I prepare for the initial appointment/evaluation?

Please submit the completed and signed paperwork via the Laurel Speech Therapy website prior to the initial visit. Additional information, such as school reports and related medical documents may be helpful. If you have other young children, you may want to have activities for them or arrange for childcare to reduce distractions during the initial comprehensive evaluation.

When will I know the results of the initial evaluation?

The evaluating speech-language pathologist will provide verbal recommendations, and may provide written information on the day of your visit. The speech-language pathologist will provide a comprehensive written report within two weeks

How long can I expect my child to attend speech therapy?

The length of therapy cannot be predicted. Children may show immediate improvement, or it may be very gradual. The rate and pattern of improvement is different for every child. Progress is typically evaluated in three to six-month intervals.

Will I attend my child’s speech therapy session?

It is important for parents to participate in their child’s therapy for success over time. Parent participation may include: therapy participation, consultation during the session, and completion of home practice activities between therapy sessions.

How often will my child attend speech therapy?

This depends on the speech and language needs of the child. Frequency of therapy is typically determined at the initial evaluation. Depending on the needs of the child, they may attend once or twice weekly for 30-60 minute sessions. Therapy is only increased if needed.

Do you take insurance?

At this time, Laurel Speech Therapy is fee for service only. However, we are able to provide families with a superbill document upon request for them to submit to insurance for reimbursement.

How do I pay for services?

Laurel Speech Therapy accepts cash, check, Zelle, and Venmo payments.

Do you offer screenings?

Laurel Speech Therapy is available to provide screenings to children at daycare centers, private schools, religious preschool programs or in your home. Screenings are abbreviated evaluations to determine if a child could benefit from further evaluation, or if a child’s level of performance is age appropriate and no further evaluation is needed. If your child is found to have mild difficulties yet a full evaluation is not recommended, home programming ideas will be discussed so parents can facilitate these skills at home. If an area of concern is identified, a full evaluation will be recommended.