Frequently Asked Questions
How long does speech therapy take?
The length of time it takes to treat depends on several critical factors. Best Speech Therapy's goal is to provide therapy to assist the client to reach their optimal communication and graduate from the program as soon as is appropriate. The client and/or caregiver's willingness to work outside of therapy sessions will facilitate graduation sooner rather later.
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Occasionally, our speech pathologists may request consults with other professionals such as ear-nose-throat doctors, dental professionals, physical therapists, occupational therapists, neuropsychological professionals, etc to address underlying concerns which may impact the client's progress.
What should I expect from an evaluation?
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Prior to coming to the evaluation, a questionnaire regarding your concerns and medical, language, educational, and developmental (if appropriate) history will be completed.
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At the evaluation, the speech pathologist will have the opportunity to assess the patient's communication skills. Assessments may include standardized testing, observation, caregiver interview, review of previous evaluations. Play based evaluations may be conducted with young children. The evaluation results will determine if treatment is necessary. Treatment cannot be initiated unless an evaluation has been completed.
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Referrals to other professionals may be recommended as part of the treatment plan if the client shows difficulties in areas outside of the speech pathologist's scope of practice. This may include audiology, ENT, occupational therapy, physical therapy, orthodontists, oral myologists, etc.
What are your fees?
Please click on the appropriate preliminary information form to access our current fee schedule.
NEW Patient Paperwork, Office Policies, and Fees
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For Orofacial Myofunctional and/or Speech Therapy Evaluations:
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For Voice Disorder Evaluations:
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For Voice and Communication Training:
Voice Modification Questionnaire
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Payment: We are currently an out-of-network provider with all insurance companies. However, this does not mean your insurance company will not cover some/all services. Payment for services is due at the time of your appointment to Best Speech Therapy, PLLC via Zelle or our secure online portal for credit cards. Please call your insurance company to find out if you are eligible for out-of-network speech language therapy and/or evaluation reimbursement.
What is Telepractice?
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Telepractice is delivering speech and language therapy using technology when the service provider (speech language pathologist) is in a different location than the client. Other names for telepractice include telespeech, speech teletherapy, or telerehabilitation. Clinicians report using telepractice to address multiple speech and language disorders, including articulation disorders, dysarthria, language disorders, cognitive disorders, dysphagia, voice disorders, and orofacial myology disorders.
(American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2010)
Accent Modification classes, coaching sessions, and public speaking skills training are also provided via
telepractice.
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How does Telepractice work?
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Telepractice speech and language services utilize a variety of technology. Smartphones, tablets, desktop
computers, laptop computers, and business class video conferencing tools to connect speech language
pathologists and clients. (Guerin S., Marion-Wilson, T., 2013)
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We provide you with a login username and password to access our HIPAA certified web conferencing
platform for sessions. No download required. Just a computer, laptop, or tablet with a camera and
microphone. Headset with microphone recommended, but not necessary.
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What can I Telepractice?
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Telepractice takes place in private practice, schools, medical centers, childcare centers, outpatient clinics,
and corporate settings. In many cases, a trained facilitator must be present with the client during therapy
sessions. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2010)
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What about privacy and licensure?
Clinicians providing telepractice services must adhere to the same regulations as those who are providing face-to-face services. Providers must comply with HIPPA regulations when choosing technology to use for tele practice, and take steps to ensure that the privacy of the client's protective health information remains secure. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2010)
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Each state governs its regulations of telepractice. ASHA advises that telepracticioners must be licensed in their home state and in the states in which their clients reside.
Do you accept insurance or Medicare?
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We chose to build a patient-centered model for our practice that does not allow insurance companies to dictate the care we provide. Because of this, payment will be expected during the time of your visit.
As a courtesy to our patients, we will bill your out of network claims on your behalf if permitted by your insurance.
We recommend you call your insurance to inquire about your coverage plan and out of network benefits. Our office does not have the resources to check benefits at this time.
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Due to Medicare policies, we are not able to work with private pay Medicare members at this time.
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Do you accept students for clinical practicum? Do you accept students for internships?
Yes, please click the link to be directed to the intern application.