FAQs

What is speech-language therapy?

Speech-language therapy is the treatment of delays or disorders impacting communication. Therapy can address any of the following areas:

I'm not sure my child needs an evaluation or therapy services. What should I do?

It's okay to be unsure! That's what we're here for. Schedule a free consultation phonecall to discuss your concerns without committing to a full assessment. Consultations consist of a 15-20 minute conversation, where you'll be asked questions about your child's development and communication skills. By the end of the phonecall, I'll be able to provide further insight about whether your child would benefit from a screening, a comprehensive evaluation, or a "wait and see" approach.

What's the difference between a screening and an evaluation?

Screenings are abbreviated tests used to determine whether a full evaluation is even necessary. If an area of concern is identified in the screening, further assessment will most likely be recommended. Screenings are a good first step in the process, especially if families are hesistant to commit to a full assessment for any reason.

Evaluations are much more comprehensive than screenings. They provide detailed information about your child's communication strengths and weaknesses, and result in a formal speech-language diagnosis & treatment plan (if applicable). Treatment cannot be initiated until an assessment has been completed. 

How do I get started?

Now for the fun part!

How much of my child's speech should others be able to understand?

Intelligibility ratings are used to gauge whether your child's speech sound production in conversational speech is age-appropriate or below age-expectancy. Generally, we expect the following: 

There are a lot of speech-language therapy providers to choose from. What makes Tip of the Tongue Speech Therapy different from other private practices in SF?

Connection first: Tip of the Tongue Speech Therapy takes a personalized approach to address your child's speech and language needs. Allison makes sure to meet your child exactly where they are. By always prioritizing good rapport, fostering a growth mindset, and encouraging intrinsic motivation in your child, she obtains the best results from speech-language therapy. 

Convenience: Providing individualized services to children in the comfort of their own homes or classrooms opens the door to exceptional results. The convenience of home sessions means that time-consuming efforts (driving, parking, waiting around for your child while they're in therapy) are no longer necessary. It creates a stress-free process that is not only highly effective, but also highly efficient. 

Continuous, open parent-communication: Tip of the Tongue Speech Therapy knows the importance of parental involvement. Whether it's via email, phonecall or text, Allison is always eager to connect with parents to ease their concerns, update them on progress, or share helpful home-practice tips. 

How often and for how long will my child need speech-language therapy?

Each child's communication profile varies, which makes it impossible to give hard and fast answers as to how long your child will be in therapy. Several factors impact prognosis and estimated therapeutic duration. Some of these factors include (but are not limited to):

Evaluation results help your therapist gauge the appropriate "dosage" of therapy based on the above factors in order to maximize progress. Typically, therapy is recommended 1-3x per week for 30-45 minutes.

My previous experience with speech-language therapy was not positive. Treatment felt never ending - therapists were always searching for ways to keep us there, pushing us to stick with it, even when we felt our child was ready to stop. How is Tip of the Tongue Speech Therapy any different? 

Tip of the Tongue Speech Therapy prides itself on providing the best speech-language services for just the right amount of time. We are not in the business of keeping children in treatment for longer than necessary. The following qualificiations are used to determine when a child is ready to graduate from speech-language therapy:

Our goal is, and will always be, to give your child the tools they need to succeed in the most efficient manner & time possible. There is nothing that makes us happier than watching our graduated kids soar once they show us they're ready to communicate on their own!

How are speech-language services billed and paid for? Do you take insurance?

Electronic invoices are delivered on the last day of each month to your specified email address. We accept all major credits cards, including FSA's and HSA's. Payment can also be made via zelle or check. 

Tip of the Tongue Speech Therapy is not a provider for any insurance companies and does not bill insurance directly. Families should review their specific insurance policies and benefits to see if plans cover out-of-network speech therapy. If you choose to seek reimbursement from insurance, a monthly superbill detailing pertinent diagnostic/treatment information will be provided. We are also happy to provide copies of reports and/or other clinical documentation requested by your insurance company, If necessary.