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Speech and Language Therapy Services
Perhaps taking your child for a therapy assessment is a new experience. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions that may answer some of your questions.
What is a Speech Pathologist?
A Speech Pathologist (also known as a Speech and Language Therapist) is trained to assess and treat people who have communication difficulties. These difficulties may be present in any area of communication including speech sounds, language (understanding and spoken), reading, spelling, written pieces of language, body language and gestures.
What does expressive and receptive language mean?
Expressive language refers to the spoken language (e.g. talking or writing using words, sentences, stories, explanations). Receptive language refers to what is understood. For example following instructions could involve needing to understand location words (in, under, between) and time words (e.g. first, then) in order to carry out the instruction successfully. Grammar is important for expressing your ideas and meaning (expressive language) and for understanding what has been said.
What are social skills?
Social skills are the communication skills needed to interact appropriately with others and develop friendships. Examples of social skills include being able to hold a conversation, understanding emotions in oneself and in others by observing facial expressions, knowing how to respond in different social situations in an appropriate manner.
How long does my child need to attend therapy sessions for?
Based on the assessment results, the speech pathologist will recommend a number of sessions or a block of therapy sessions to address areas of communication or literacy difficulty. Specific short term goals will be discussed and prioritized with the parent's input. Progress depends on a number of factors. It depends on the individual child as each child has different skills to help them learn (e.g. memory, attention) and progress depends on the ability of the family to practice and apply skills taught in therapy sessions in their routines at home. Once the recommended number of sessions has ended, the speech pathologist will discuss whether additional sessions are recommended, and whether other goals need focusing on, based on their initial assessment.