FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a speech-language screening?

A speech-language screening is a brief assessment of a child’s communication skills to determine if further testing and evaluation are needed. No diagnoses are made during a speech-language screening.

What is a speech-language evaluation?

A speech-language evaluation uses a variety of assessment measures to show how a child’s communication skills compare to other children of the same age. This enables us to better understand their strengths and needs, determine whether the child is delayed and by how much, and develop an effective, efficient treatment plan.

At what age should I start thinking about speech language therapy for my child?

We work with children ranging in age from infancy to adolescence. Of course, a parent’s gut feeling is usually right, regardless of age. When you compare your child’s communication skills to other kids and wonder whether your child is falling behind, your concern is probably justified. Early intervention is key, so speak with a speech-language pathologist. If you’d like more information on communication milestones, download this checklist.

How much does speech-language therapy cost?

In the interest of transparency, we’ve listed our rates on the Services page. The Little Speech Tree is a private pay practice, which means we do not accept insurance. We believe the services we provide should be based solely on the needs of the child, not the decision-making of an insurance company. This operational model allows us to achieve more progress in less time. Caitlin Burke can spend more time with each child and family, develop a more personalized therapy plan, and use innovative techniques. If your insurance provider offers out-of-network coverage, or you have a health savings account (HSA) or flexible savings account (FSA), we can provide a superbill to submit to your provider.

What’s the difference between speech and language disorders?

Speech focuses on how a child pronounces and articulates sounds and words. Language involves vocabulary and a broader set of skills, including how well children understand what others say, answer questions, follow directions, and use appropriate sentences to express themselves.

What is executive functioning?

Executive functioning is the ability to apply mental skills such as working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control to communicate, learn, focus, organize, follow directions, manage emotions, etc.

What is executive functioning therapy?

The name may be a bit misleading as this type of therapy is for kids, not executives. Executive function refers to working memory, flexible thinking, self-control, planning, organization, and other fundamental skills involved with communication. Executive functioning therapy focuses on improving these skills and is incorporated into all therapy sessions with The Little Speech Tree.

What is augmentative and alternative communication?

When a child cannot speak verbally from the mouth, an augmentative or alternative form of communication is often needed. There are many different types, ranging from a book full of picture symbols that represent different words to an electronic device that “speaks” words for the child when a button is pushed.

What is sensory processing?

Sensory Processing is simply the management of incoming sensory information. Incoming sensory information could be something we feel, see, hear, taste, or smell. Sensory processing also helps us move with appropriate balance, use the right amount of force when interacting with our world, and understand the sensations within our own body. Sometimes, children are over sensitive and under sensitive to certain types of sensory input. Some examples include frequently bumping into others unintentionally or wanting to constantly spin on a chair.

What is an independent educational evaluation?

When a parent of a child with a disability disagrees with the results of an evaluation conducted by the public school system, the parent has the right to obtain an independent educational evaluation (IEE). This means that the parent can ask that a professional, competent evaluator, who is not employed by the public school system, conduct another evaluation. Caitlin conducts independent educational evaluations as it relates to speech and language, including augmentative and alternative communication.

Have Questions or Concerns?

Keep in mind that every child is unique with their own set of circumstances and challenges. Feel free to contact us to address any questions or concerns about your child so we can determine next steps.