We use neurodiversity affirming practices which involve adopting an approach that respects and embraces the diverse ways in which individuals’ brains function. This includes recognizing and valuing the unique strengths and challenges of each child, regardless of their neurological differences or diagnoses. Therapists prioritize creating a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters acceptance, celebrates differences, and encourages self-advocacy. Additionally, using person-centered and strengths-based interventions helps empower children to develop their communication skills while honoring their individuality and neurological diversity.
Developmental language therapy targets improving a child’s overall language skills, including vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, and expressive language abilities. We assess the child’s language development level and identifies areas in need of support. Therapy sessions often involve structured activities, play-based interventions, and conversation-based exercises to promote language growth. The therapist may use strategies such as modeling correct language, providing visual supports, and encouraging language expansion to facilitate learning. Progress is monitored through ongoing assessments and observations to track improvements and adjust therapy goals as needed.
Speech generating devices (SGDs) are valuable tools in pediatric speech therapy for children with severe communication impairments. These devices help children who have limited or unclear speech to express themselves effectively. We work with your insurance to assess your child’s needs and find the best device that works for them. Therapy involves teaching the child how to use the SGD to produce messages, either by selecting pre-programmed buttons or typing text. The therapist also works with the child to integrate the SGD into daily activities and interactions to promote functional communication skills. Ongoing support and training are provided to optimize the child’s use of the SGD and facilitate communication success.
Stuttering therapy for children focuses on reducing disfluencies and improving communication fluency. The therapist first assesses the child’s stuttering patterns and associated behaviors to develop an individualized treatment plan. Therapy often involves a combination of behavioral techniques, such as slow and easy speech strategies, relaxation techniques, and desensitization exercises. Additionally, the therapist works on modifying speech behaviors and attitudes related to stuttering to increase confidence and reduce avoidance behaviors. Therapy sessions are structured to be supportive and engaging, with a focus on empowering the child to communicate more effectively and comfortably.
Speech therapy for children with dyslexia aims to address specific language and phonological processing difficulties that contribute to reading challenges. The therapist focuses on developing phonological awareness, including recognizing and manipulating sounds in words, which is crucial for reading success. Therapy may involve activities to improve decoding skills, such as blending and segmenting sounds, and enhancing vocabulary and comprehension abilities. The therapist also collaborates with educators and parents to integrate speech therapy goals into the child’s overall learning plan.
Does your child memorize books or movies? Do they speak with inflection but are difficult to understand? Are they imitating all the words they hear? Often, children who use delayed echolalia (or scripting) are gestalt language processors. Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) is a form of language development that starts with whole memorized phrases to single words. It is a natural way to develop language but is often thought of as disordered by those unaware of GLP. It is NOT! The NLA framework was developed by Marge Blanc (2012).
Those that are not yet using flexible, original language require a different approach in order to begin communicating with self-generated language. Chrissy is a Certified NLA Trained Clinician. Other therapists in the practice are currently completing the certification process. Understanding NLA can help parents and other professionals engage and connect with their child’s natural way of learning language.
Pediatric feeding therapy is a specialized approach aimed at addressing feeding difficulties and improving eating behaviors in infants and children. It involves a comprehensive assessment of a child’s feeding skills, oral motor function, sensory processing, and behavior around mealtimes. The therapy is tailored to each child’s specific needs and may include strategies such as desensitization to textures, oral motor exercises, and behavior modification techniques. The goal is to promote safe and efficient feeding, increase food acceptance, and ultimately enhance the child’s nutritional intake and growth.
Private pay
Private pay
Major insurance plans
How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?
Communication is a crucial, lifelong skill. Speech therapy supports children in achieving age-appropriate communication milestones, expressing their thoughts, feelings, and ideas clearly, understanding others’ language, and developing socially. It also plays a key role in their academic success and emotional well-being, among other benefits.
Start by scheduling an evaluation with a speech therapist. They will assess your child’s communication development and provide expert recommendations on whether speech therapy could be beneficial.
At what age can a child start speech therapy?
There is no minimum age for speech therapy. Communication skills start developing in infancy, and fostering strong language abilities early on can lay the groundwork for robust communication and literacy skills in the future. Speech therapy is especially crucial for children who are not meeting age-appropriate communication milestones or who are struggling with issues like language comprehension or a speech sound errors. Since speech and language patterns become more entrenched over time, addressing speech errors early can lead to better outcomes.
How long does speech therapy take?
The length of speech therapy varies from person to person and depends on several factors. These include the nature of the speech disorder or communication issue, the frequency of therapy sessions, how often you and your child practice the skills at home, your child’s age, any underlying medical conditions, and more.
Will my child pay attention during sessions?
Many children enjoy coming to speech therapy! The dynamic nature of our exercises and communication tends to capture their attention well. Effective strategies employed by speech therapists keep children engaged during sessions. At Play Talk & Grow, we emphasize the crucial role of parents and caregivers in enhancing children’s speech and language skills. Active involvement from parents leads to quicker progress. Our therapists collaborate directly with caregivers to teach techniques and strategies that can be applied in daily life.
What does a speech therapy session look like?
Speech therapy sessions are tailored to each client’s specific care plan, with activities designed to align with their goals. For instance, if the goal is to improve pronunciation of the /s/ sound, sessions will start with practicing the sound in isolation and gradually progress to using it in conversation. If the aim is to enhance communication and play skills, the therapist will utilize a child-led approach to build trust and encourage the production of language. Each session focuses on the child’s well-being while maximizing trials for each goal to ensure effective use of time.
Your speech therapist will continuously evaluate your progress toward the goals and adjust your treatment plan as needed to accelerate your improvement. Regardless of your objectives, your therapist will also provide practice activities to be completed at home between sessions.
How long are the evaluation and therapy sessions?
Each evaluation lasts approximately 60 minutes. It’s a comprehensive evaluation including standardized testing, informal observations, parent interview, and review of any previous evaluations.
Individual therapy sessions are 30 minutes and typically meet once per week. Based on a child’s needs we may recommend meeting multiple times a week.
Does insurance cover speech therapy?
Play Talk & Grow currently accepts many of the largest insurance companies. We also offer affordable private pay options and accept ESA+ and HSAs/FSAs for those who do not have insurance coverage or prefer to pay out-of-pocket.
