If you are concerned or unsure whether your child has a speech or language delay, a good place to start is with your pediatrician, day care provider, or teacher. They are often very good at gauging your child's speech/language skills based on what their peers are doing. If they notice any deficits, they will likely refer you to a Speech-Language Pathologist. If this is the case, please reach out! We'd love to connect and answer any of your questions. Age expected speech and language milestones are linked below for further reference.

Yes! Although it is common to hear the words "speech" and "language" used interchangeably, they are actually two separate things. Speech refers to how we say sounds and words, and includes articulation, voice, and fluency. Language refers to the words we use and how we use them to convey meaning. Receptive language includes understanding what others say, while expressive language includes sharing our thoughts, ideas, and feelings. People can have difficulty with speech, language, or both. For more information about the differences between speech and language disorders, refer to the link below.

A comprehensive speech and language evaluation allows the Speech Language Pathologist to assess speech and language skills through standardized tests, observation, case history information, and parent report. The evaluation can last from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the areas being assessed. If it is found that your child is having difficulties in areas outside the scope of practice of the SLP, referrals to other professionals may be made. These could include an Audiologist, ENT, Occupational Therapist, Reading Specialist, Physical Therapist, Myofacial Therapist, or Orthodontist. Following the evaluation you will receive a brief verbal summary of the findings. If therapy is warranted, a full written report will be reviewed with you over the phone or at the first therapy appointment. If it is found that your child falls within an age appropriate range for their speech and language skills, there will be no further appointments scheduled and you will receive the written report in the mail.

Therapy is always tailored to the unique needs of each child, and so while we typically recommend 1 to 2 sessions per week for 30 minutes each, this can change based on the type and severity of deficits. The scope and duration of therapy will be discussed after goals have been established.

Speech therapy sessions can take place in your child's school, at our home office, or at other appropriate settings worked out between the parent and speech therapist.

We do not accept insurance at this time. If you have ever dealt with an insurance company, you know that it is no easy feat. In order for us to take insurance, it would require hiring a full time employee that spends countless hours filing and submitting claim forms, and following up with insurance companies. The unfortunate reality is that even if we did this, a very small amount billed is ever reimbursed. Instead, we have chosen to devote those resources and time to providing services that benefit our clients directly, such as purchasing and providing therapy materials that cater to your child's specific needs, without worrying about it being "covered". At this time we accept cash, check, Gardiner scholarship, or Venmo.

At Musgrove Speech Therapy Solutions, our therapy approach is research driven and outcome-focused. We love working in close partnership with families, keeping an open dialogue and striving to achieve your child’s goals together. We provide home practice activities when appropriate to support carryover and generalization. We value relationships with our families and look forward to working with you!