FAQs

Does my child need therapy?

Great question! Here are some links for childhood developmental norms:

For receptive/expressive language skills:

https://www.asha.org/public/developmental-milestones/communication-milestones/

For feeding and swallowing:

https://www.asha.org/public/developmental-milestones/feeding-and-swallowing-milestones/

For articulation:

https://www.asha.org/siteassets/practice-portal/speech-sound-disorders-articulation-and-phonology/consonant-age-of-acquisition.pdf

For social communication:

https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/clinical-topics/social-communication-disorder/social-communication-benchmarks/

For reading and literacy:

https://www.understood.org/en/articles/reading-skills-what-to-expect-at-different-ages

If you are still unsure, contact me and we can chat more!

What does the evaluation entail?

First we’ll have a mini-consultation (approximately 5-10 minutes) where I’ll gather more information about your concerns and your child’s current level of performance. We’ll schedule a date/time for the evaluation. You’ll complete and submit paperwork, including an extensive medical/background questionnaire that I review prior to our appointment. During the evaluation session, we’ll have a consultation, and I will interact with and engage your child in testing. Depending on the child, their compliance, attention level and other environmental factors, sometimes I may jump right into working with them first – or may give them time to warm up while I talk with you first. They may take breaks as needed, depending on their fatigue/attention level. After testing, I will provide a brief and initial judgement of their performance and answer any questions you may have. I will write up the evaluation report (usually within 5 business days) and send it to you.

How long does an evaluation take?

Generally, testing can range from 1-3 hours, however that depends on various factors, such as: age, current level of performance, compliance, attention skills, and the tests that will be administered. Once we discuss what your concerns are, and I decide what tests are most appropriate, I will be able to provide a better time estimate.

How much does it cost and why are there different prices?

I feel testing should be billed based on various factors. The types and number of tests I use, the time I spend administering/scoring/report writing, costs for materials and other business expenses are considered. Everyone is different and so are their needs. Generating one set price for every evaluation seems unfair.

How do I prepare my child / home for testing?

Provide a space with minimal distractions (i.e. no television or electronics, discourage siblings/pets/others from entering/exiting repeatedly, reduce background noise). If your child usually takes medication/supplements, etc…, please make sure they have taken their normally prescribed dose. Make sure he/she gets plenty of rest and has eaten. Provide a table/chair that is comfortable for your child.

My child needs therapy. What comes next?

Your report will contain all diagnostic information, recommendations for goals, recommendations for a home program, recommendations for further testing (by other professionals if needed) and resources/referrals. I do not provide long-term on-going therapy sessions. I can, however, schedule a future therapy session in your home and provide coaching for families during that time.

What is your availability?

I am available on Friday afternoons/evenings, Saturdays and Sundays. Weeknight availability is limited and may be scheduled depending on your location, age of child and assessments that are administered.

Will there be a travel fee?

If you live within 10 miles of zip code 85308, then no. However, if you live outside of zip code 85308, there is a $1/mile charge after the first 10 miles from 85308.

Schedule an Evaluation Today

If you have any questions about which evaluation(s) are recommended, where should I start, or to set up an appointment, please contact me.