Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t know if my child needs Speech and Language Therapy – should I wait, maybe he/she will grow out of it?

If you have any concerns about your child’s communication, please call me for a chat. I will be able to talk through any concerns you may have and give relevant advice. I believe in early intervention and feel starting early can greatly benefit the development of children’s communication and interaction skills.
 

If I would like an appointment, how long will I have to wait?

Approximately 2 weeks.

My child is seeing a NHS therapist. Can we see you as well?

Yes. You can see an Independent Speech and Language Therapist whilst waiting for an NHS therapist or at the same time as seeing an NHS therapist. I have a policy of “working in harmony” with your NHS therapist and will contact him/her to discuss therapy so that we can work towards shared goals. Independent therapy does not affect what you are offered from the NHS.
 

Is there a difference between NHS therapy and private therapy?

All Speech and Language Therapists will have acquired the same qualification in order to be certified within the profession. We generally use the same assessments and therapeutic approaches. Independent Therapists however, can typically offer a more flexible service. For example, we may be able to see your child more quickly and more frequently than within the NHS service.

Do I need a referral from a GP or Health Visitor?

No you don’t. Call me and you can refer your child directly to me.
 

Where will sessions take place?

Sessions will typically take place at your home. If appropriate, sessions may be carried out within your child’s nursery or school. The location may change depending on the needs of your child.
 

How long will my child need therapy?

I typically offer therapy blocks of 6 sessions. This may be weekly or fortnightly depending on your child’s needs. During the first session, we will plan a therapy goal together. We will work towards reaching this goal during the following weeks and then review what we have achieved during the sixth session. We can then plan for the future regarding whether more therapy is or is not needed.
 

My child sees other professionals too. Will you be able to work together?

Absolutely. At the beginning of the therapy process, I will ask for your consent to contact other professionals that may be seeing your child. I will then be able to contact them when appropriate to ensure we are all working together for your child.