FAQ | My Speech Language Therapy

Question 1

What is a Speech Language Pathologist?

Accepted Answer

A Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) is a healthcare professional who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats communication and swallowing disorders. SLPs hold at minimum a master's degree and must be licensed by the state in which they practice. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) credential CCC-SLP (Certificate of Clinical Competence) indicates the highest standard of professional practice.

Question 2

What does a Speech Language Pathologist treat?

Accepted Answer

Speech Language Pathologists treat a wide range of conditions including articulation disorders, language delays, stuttering, voice disorders, aphasia, cognitive-communication disorders, swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), and more. Services are provided for children, adults, and geriatric patients across a variety of settings.

Question 3

What is the difference between a speech disorder and a language disorder?

Accepted Answer

A speech disorder refers to difficulty producing sounds correctly or fluently — for example, lisps, stuttering, or voice problems. A language disorder refers to difficulty understanding or using words and sentences to communicate ideas, which can affect reading, writing, and social interaction. Many individuals have both, and a thorough evaluation helps identify the specific areas of need.

Question 4

At what age should my child begin speech therapy?

Accepted Answer

Early intervention is key. If you have concerns about your child's communication development at any age, it is never too early to seek an evaluation. Research shows that children who receive therapy early — sometimes as young as 12–18 months — have significantly better outcomes. Trust your instincts as a parent: if something feels off, reach out for a consultation.

Question 5

How long does therapy last?

Accepted Answer

The length of therapy varies greatly depending on the nature and severity of the disorder, the individual's motivation and support system, and how consistently therapy is attended. Some children make rapid progress in a few months; others benefit from longer-term support. After an evaluation, we will discuss realistic goals and a projected timeline tailored to your child or family member.

Question 6

What should I expect at an evaluation?

Accepted Answer

An evaluation typically lasts 60–90 minutes and includes a detailed case history, standardized testing, and informal observation of communication skills. For children, play-based activities are used to make the process comfortable and engaging. At the end of the evaluation, you will receive a summary of findings and recommendations for next steps, including whether therapy is indicated.

Question 7

Does insurance cover speech therapy?

Accepted Answer

Many insurance plans do cover speech language therapy services, though coverage varies widely by plan and diagnosis. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to ask about your specific benefits. We are happy to provide documentation to support your claim. Please call our office and we can help guide you through the process.

Question 8

What is LSVT LOUD®?

Accepted Answer

LSVT LOUD® (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) is an evidence-based speech treatment program specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions. It focuses on increasing vocal loudness through intensive, high-effort exercises. Rachael L. Levy is a certified LSVT LOUD® clinician, meaning she has completed specialized training to deliver this highly effective program.

Question 9

Do you offer teletherapy / telehealth services?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Teletherapy allows patients to receive high-quality speech language therapy from the comfort of their own home via a secure video platform. Teletherapy is especially convenient for patients with mobility challenges, busy schedules, or those who live at a distance. Research supports the effectiveness of teletherapy for many speech and language goals.

Question 10

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Getting started is easy. Simply reach out by phone, email, or through our contact form to schedule a free consultation. During the consultation, we will discuss your concerns, answer any questions, and determine whether a full evaluation is the right next step. There is no obligation — just a friendly conversation to see if we are the right fit for you or your family.

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