Speech and Language Therapy

Speech therapy can begin as early as infancy. Early intervention - ideally before age 3 -tends to produce the strongest outcomes. If your child isn't meeting milestones such as saying first words by 12 months or using two-word phrases by 24 months, request an evaluation right away. There is no minimum age requirement.

Common signs include: not babbling by 12 months, no single words by 16 months, limited vocabulary for their age, difficulty being understood by familiar adults, trouble following simple directions, stuttering, and frustration when trying to communicate. If you have any concern, an evaluation is always the right first step.

Progress depends on the child and the nature of their challenge. Some children see meaningful gains within a few months; others benefit from support over one to several years. Your therapist sets individualized goals and reassesses progress regularly, so you always know where your child stands.

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work on articulation, language comprehension and expression, fluency (stuttering), voice, and social communication. Sessions are play-based for young children and may include games, books, conversation practice, and targeted exercises tailored to your child's specific goals.

Yes. Language skills form the foundation for literacy. SLPs work on phonological awareness, vocabulary, and comprehension - skills directly tied to reading. Children with dyslexia or language-based learning differences frequently benefit from speech-language therapy alongside academic support.

If you'd like to use your insurance for speech therapy, a physician's referral is needed. Call our office and we will walk you through the process based on your specific insurance plan. If you'd prefer to get started ASAP, we offer private pay contracts, which do not require a physician's referral.

Absolutely - and it is very common. Children may receive both services on different days, especially when sensory, motor, or attention challenges affect communication. Our therapists coordinate care so that goals across disciplines reinforce each other.

Many health insurance plans cover speech therapy when it is deemed medically necessary. Coverage varies by plan, so we encourage families to call their insurance provider to ask about speech therapy benefits, session limits, and referral requirements. Our team is happy to assist with the process.

A speech delay means a child is developing in the typical pattern but at a slower pace than expected. A speech disorder - such as childhood apraxia of speech or a phonological disorder - involves atypical patterns of speech production. Both benefit from professional evaluation and treatment, and both are very treatable.

Parent involvement is one of the strongest predictors of progress. Your therapist will provide home activities tailored to your child's current goals. In general: read together daily, engage in back-and-forth conversations, narrate everyday activities, and allow your child time to attempt words before stepping in.