how is private speech therapy different from school speech therapy?
In Oklahoma, speech/language impairment and developmental delay are considered an area of disability and a child may qualify for speech services even if they do not meet the qualifications for any other special educational services. The State of Oklahoma has a specific criterion, or test score, that a child must score below in order to qualify for services in the school. To qualify for services in a school in the State of Oklahoma, the diagnosis must also directly impact a child’s educational performance. There are some diagnoses that are not covered in schools because they are not “educationally based”. Private practices, following medical models, are able to address all diagnoses under the category of speech/language delays or disorders.
how do i know if my child needs therapy?
Teachers, child care workers, pediatricians, and family members may have expressed concerns or perhaps you may have noticed some concerns yourself. Please review the developmental milestones detailed on our website. If you have any questions, feel free to call and speak to one of our highly qualified professionals.
what happens during a therapy session?
Typically, our therapy sessions are individualized and tailored to meet the needs of your child; group sessions are only provide as a supplement to an individualized treatment session. Therapy sessions vary depending on the type of therapy a child is needing, the age of the child, as well as the skill level of the child. The therapist that works with your child will address underlying issues, and will set specific, yet obtainable goals in your child's treatment plan. Therapy sessions are motivating to all involved—children have the support that is needed, are encouraged to learn in a fun and active environment, and parents find comfort in seeing their children find success. Parents are encouraged to observe and participate in al therapy sessions.
how often and for how long will my child need to attend therapy?
The frequency and length of service depends on many factors, including the severity of need, the age of the child, the behavior of the child, parent involvement in a home program, and the parent’s availability to bring a child to appointments. Most children receive services once or twice a week for 30-60 minutes each session, although this frequency does vary. Each child is looked at individually, and the decision regarding the frequency of services is one that is made between the evaluating therapist and the parent.
