What does a typical speech and language therapy session look like?

The speech and language therapist will ask you questions about things your child likes (e.g. favourite toys, activities and cartoons) and will incorporate these into therapy sessions. This will help to motivate your child to participate fully in therapy sessions. Depending on the age and needs of your child, therapy sessions will either take an unstructured play based format or a structured activity / worksheet based format. 

Who is involved in speech and language therapy sessions?

Any family members, caregivers and teachers are welcome to participate in therapy sessions (with parental consent). As speech and language therapists we want to teach those closest to the child the best way of communicating with them. It is encouraged for parents to be active participants in the therapy process. 

How long does a speech and language therapy session take?

The duration of session will be recommended after the speech and language therapist has assessed your child. Duration time will differ depending on the age, need and severity of your child. The recommended session times are usually either a 45-minute session or a 60-minute session. 

How often will my child need speech and language therapy?

The frequency of your sessions will also be recommended after the speech and language therapist has assessed your child. Frequency of therapy will differ depending on the age, need and severity of your child. Recommended frequency of therapy would typically be either weekly sessions or twice-weekly sessions. 

Is there homework involved with speech and language therapy?

Speech and language therapy does not only happen during your child’s session. We need to give your child opportunities to practice their communication skills everyday. The speech and language therapist will give you homework or activities to complete each week. It is important that this is adhered to, in order for your child to make progress and to become a successful communicator. 

How do we go about getting a speech and language therapy report?

You will be given the option to receive an assessment report at the time of the initial assessment. You may also request progress reports or school-entry reports (a summary of speech and language skills to be given upon your child's entry into school).  Please note that an extra fee is charged for all reports.

How much does an assessment cost?

Your initial assessment session will cost the same amount as a 60-minute session. If you wish to opt for the assessment report, an extra fee will apply. For more information on our pricing plan please refer to our Services section.  

Can the speech and language therapist talk to my child’s teachers?

Speak To Me adopts a holistic approach to therapy. This means that we will endeavor for your child to become a successful communicator in all environments (e.g. at the clinic, at home and at school). In order to do this we need to gain parental consent to talk about your child with their teachers. We can explain your child’s communication needs, provide homework for the teachers, offer training for teaching staff and provide useful tips for teachers. 

What happens if I need to cancel a session?

Speak To Me uses a cancellation policy. If you need to cancel your speech and language therapy session, you must contact Speak To Me 24 hours prior to your session. 50% of the session fee will be charged if the client does not cancel the session or cancels the session within the 24-hour time frame. 

How can I pay for speech and language therapy sessions?

Speak To Me accepts both pre-paid payment and payment at the time of your therapy session.  You have the option of paying with cash or ATM card on the premises. If you would prefer to pre-pay you can do so by making an online transfer to the Speak To Me account. Pre-payments must be made online prior to your session.

There is a late payment fee (10% of balance per month) for any outstanding balances. If you have not settled your account within 30 days of your last session, Speak To Me will refer your details onto a debt collection agency.

How can I make an appointment?

Please contact one of our speech and language therapists to discuss your child’s communication or to make an appointment for your child. You can email us at enquiries@speaktome.co.nz or you can call Speak To Me on 021 554 523.