1What is speech language therapy?
Speech language therapy is a health allied profession that aims at helping individuals develop effective and functional skills through preventing, assessing, diagnosing, treating / rehabilitating speech, language and swallowing disorders in children and adults.
2Who do speech language therapists work with?
A multidisciplinary approach to treating communication difficulties is one of our missions. So, at Beyond Speech we often work with:
- Occupational therapists
- Physiotherapists
- Music therapists
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Pediatricians
- Neurologists
- ENTs
- Audiologists
- Geneticists
- Gastroenterologists
- Nutritionists
- Kindergarten teachers
- Teachers
- Special educators
3Is there a difference between speech and language?
People often think of speech and language as the same thing, but the terms actually convey very different meanings. An individual with speech difficulties struggles with how we say sounds and words. This usually relates to the coordination of the muscles and movements necessary to produce speech. An individual with language difficulties struggles with receptive and / or expressive oral and / or written "code" ; the method of human communication. In this case the individual might struggle to find the right words and / or organize those words in a meaningful way to communicate a message or hold a conversation. Finally, an individual might struggle with the appropriate use of language, according to the socially accepted norms of the community in which they live.
4What does a speech and / or language evaluation involve?
A speech - language evaluation involves the assessment of an individual's language and communication skills. Our speech language therapists decide which assessment tools will provide the most useful information on the individual (e.g., standardized assessment tools, criterion referenced tests, questionnaires, etc.). The information gathered is analyzed to determine the individual's needs.
5Does my child need a speech and / or language evaluation?
Parents often wonder if their child's speech and / or language skills are developing typically. In case you have any concerns about your child's development, or feel unsure about the skills your child is expected to master at any age, do not hesitate to contact us via email, a phone call, or through the "Contact us" form. We are happy to answer any of your questions and / or concerns. In addition, by navigating our website you can find useful information about speech, language, and communication.
6How long does an evaluation last?
An evaluation lasts about an hour. However, sometimes it is not possible to gather all the necessary information in this time and the evaluation might need to continue in following sessions. Once the evaluation is completed, our speech language therapists will have a clear picture of the individual's needs to formulate a comprehensive treatment plan to address all aspects that need intervention.
7Will the individual stay with the therapist that performed the evaluation?
Our goal is to match each individual with the therapist that best suits their needs and schedule. This is usually determined after the evaluation.
8What does a speech language therapy intervention plan include?
A speech language therapy intervention plan is an individualized program created by a speech language therapist to address the individual's language, cognitive, and / or social needs. The plan may include:
- Recommendations for therapy
- Initial goals to be achieved during therapy
- Re-evaluation at a later stage
- Referrals to other health professionals (e.g., occupational therapist, physiotherapist, psychiatrist, etc.)
- Suggestions for parents / carergivers and educators
9How often will the individual need to see the therapist?
The frequency of therapy is determined upon the completion of the evaluation.
10What will be the total duration of speech language therapy?
Speech language therapy duration depends on several factors, including:
- Diagnosis and the degree of impairment (people with severe disabilities might receive ongoing support and treatment, instead of people with articulation disorders, who usually receive treatment for a shorter period of time)
- Co-morbidity (i.e., psychiatric diagnosis, structural deficits, etc.)
- Parental involvement (i.e., reinforcing acquired skills and / or practising skills at home)
- Individual motivation
- Systematic attendance to therapy sessions
- Whether the individual is also receiving other necessary interventions (i.e., occupational therapy)
11At what age should I seek out help for my child?
Our therapists work with children from infancy, through adolescence, and adulthood. If you are concerned about your child's communication skills, please call us, email us, or contact us via the contact us form, so we can decide if we should schedule an evaluation for your child. Early intervention for both developmental, and acquired disorders is very beneficial.
12Will my child’s language delay / disorder cause academic difficulties or difficulties with social interactions?
Research suggests that language skills are highly associated with later academic performance in school-aged children. Also, untreated language difficulties can have a negative effect on social interactions.
13How can I contact you?
You can contact us by:
- Leaving a message at +357 22108800
- Sending us an email at info@beyondspeech.eu
- Filling in a form via the "Contact us" tab on this website
