Q: What should I expect at the first appointment?

We need to get an understanding of your child’s communication ability. We use a number of techniques to gather this information including: parent report, observation, informal play-based activities, as well as formal assessment (dependent on your child’s presentation and ability to perform and participate in formal assessment).

This thorough assessment will help with the development of treatment goals as well as determine need for additional referrals (ex. other support/services, developmental assessment, etc.).

Q: What does a typical therapy session look like?

An individual session focuses on the speech and language goals as determined during the initial assessment. We tailor treatment to the needs of your child while also supporting you in continuing to address goals at home (through parent education and discussion of follow-up activities). Working together is a critical component to ensure that your child progresses to his or her full communicative potential. We work together to BUILD your child’s speech and language skills.

Q: How often should I attend appointments and for how long?

We will work with you to determine what works best for your child and family. The frequency and length of the therapy sessions will range depending on the specific needs of your child and your schedule.

Q: Are private speech and language services covered through extended health care benefits?

Yes, private speech and language services are covered. We recommend you check your insurance benefits as these often cover a specific amount for speech and language services.

Q: Does my child need a referral from his/her doctor?

Though we do accept them; a doctor’s referral is not needed as a parent can referral their child. For your convenience, you can book online.

There may be recommendations for additional testing or services that would require a doctor’s referral (e.g., Ear-Nose-Throat Doctor) which will be discussed with you.

Q: Why private speech and language therapy?

1. Avoid waitlists as the public system waits can be long. Private services offer a way to access services during your wait in the public system.
2. Private services also provide a means to supplement speech and language services you receive through the public system.
3. Different communication difficulties require different types of treatment – some are best suited to a more intensive approach. In private practice, there is more flexibility to provide an intensive service if necessary, and if it fits with the child/family lifestyle and routine.
4. Evening  and weekend hours provide flexibility in scheduling.

Q: I am interested in having a psychological assessment performed, where do I start?

Prior to booking an assessment, a 60-90 minute initial consultation is recommended to discuss your child, your concerns, and answer any questions you may have. This consultation will also help determine need and/or direction for the assessment and ensure a full psychological assessment is warranted. Should an assessment be required, the fee for this appointment will be applied towards the assessment cost.

Q: Why choose Speech & Language Builders for Autism assessment?

Speech & Language Builders provides a multidisciplinary approach to this assessment. Included in this Collaborative Effort are a Doctoral Psychologist and Speech-Language Pathologist, both with over 20 years of experience and expertise in this area. We also ensure a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation is performed for a complete diagnosis which will ensure not only the accuracy of assessment results but also ensure access to funding.