FAQs

What can I expect from a speech evaluation?

An evaluation consists of a combination of parent report, individual history, observation, and standardized assessment. Depending on individual needs and abilities, an evaluation session can last from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. After the assessment session, information from all the above mentioned sources will be integrated into an evaluation report and reviewed with the caregiver, including present levels of skills and any recommendations for speech therapy or referrals for other professional services, if warranted.

What standardized assessments can you provide?

I can provide standardized assessment results and a diagnosis for speech articulation and phonology disorders. 

Based on the tools available in my practice, I am able to provide screening and informal assessment information regarding receptive and expressive language skills. However, a formal diagnosis cannot be made without administration of a standardized language assessment, which I do not currently own.

How long and how frequent are therapy visits?

Session length and frequency is tailored to the individual needs of the child, depending on the type and severity of the deficit. Generally, therapy is recommended for 30-45 minutes per session with 1-2 sessions per week. 

 Is there paperwork I should fill out prior to my first visit?

Yes, upon scheduling the evaluation, you will be sent an email with a Case History Form and several Policy and Procedural forms to complete. 

How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?

Please see these resources for information on developmental milestones:

ASHA's Developmental Milestones: Birth to 5 Years

Children's Speech Sound Development Chart

What is a speech sound disorder? What is articulation and phonology?

A speech sound disorder is a communication disorder in which a child has difficulty saying specific sounds in words correctly. A child may have a speech sound disorder when they do not develop accurate sound production by a certain developmental age. Most children can say nearly all sounds correctly by age 5. A Speech-Language Pathologist is qualified to diagnose and treat speech sound disorders. 

Articulation refers to how sounds are produced in the mouth. Articulation disorders are characterized by substitutions (e.g., /w/ for /r/ in "red") or sound distortions (lateral or frontal lisps). 

Phonology refers to how we use sounds in the context of language. Phonological delays and disorders are indicated by consistent patterns of sound substitutions or omissions. For example, the phonological pattern of "fronting" involves producing sounds in the front of the mouth that are typically produced in the back of the mouth (e.g., "tea" for "key"). The more phonological patterns that a child exhibits the more difficult it is to understand their speech. A 3 year old should be understood around 75% of the time and a 4 year old around 90% of the time. 

It is typically easier to remediate speech sound errors in younger children, close to the expected age of developmental mastery, before they habituate the incorrect motor pattern for sound production. 

What skills does my child need to participate in therapy to remediate speech sound errors?

In order to work on speech sound errors, a child needs to have joint attention skills, the ability to participate in short structured activities (e.g., age appropriate games), follow simple directions, imitation skills, intentional communication to attempt communicating wants/needs, and a willingness to try interactive activities. 

Why don't you accept insurance?

Cricket Speech Therapy is operated by a single practitioner and does not have the administrative resources to support the time intensive process of processing insurance claims; therefore, time is spent focusing on planning, treatment, and continued education that directly benefits clients. Without waiting for insurance approval, services can be provided sooner. Pricing is clear and upfront so there are no unexpected costs. 

Why are sessions only scheduled during typical school day hours?

Cricket Speech Therapy is operated by a single practitioner; therefore, session availability is structured around the obligations that come with having a family. At this time, school day hours are when the most reliable and consistent scheduling can be offered. 

Why should I consider private speech therapy if my child may qualify for speech therapy through the school system?

Generally, school based therapists are restricted by the qualifying standards set up within their district (there needs to be academic impact to qualify), higher caseload sizes results in less 1:1 attention because students tend to be seen in a small group, and services are provided during the school day so the child will miss some class time to receive the service. Students can progress and meet their goals within this model, it just may take longer. If your student qualifies, the service is free, and this can be a great and affordable option.

Private therapists have more flexibility to take clients without needing to prove academic impact, can structure their schedule to see clients individually, and provide services at flexible times. Students can make faster progress because they receive more individual practice each session. This can be a good option if you have a preschooler and you'd like to remediate their speech issues sooner rather than later, you want to supplement existing school based services for more progress, or you prefer the individual service model and flexibility that private practice can offer.

Additionally, school based Speech-Language Pathologists  treat a diverse range of speech-language needs and may or may not be specialized in a particular area. Speech-Language Pathologists in private practice often have a speciality in a particular area and can offer focused treatment approaches and techniques in the area of their expertise.

Both private therapy and school based therapy can be helpful, effective, and even work in conjunction with one another.