Question 1

How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?

Accepted Answer

All children develop at their own rate, but if you have concerns about your child's development, the best thing to do is to take action. 
 
Expected speech-language milestones:
Click here for Birth to Five: 
Click here for Elementary Age
 
If you are still concerned about your child's communication development. Call (559)321-7867 or fill out the online request form for a free Zoom consultation today.

Question 2

Are you a neurodiversity affirming SLP?

Accepted Answer

YES!

My practice is rooted in neurodiversity affirming care. I support Gestalt Language Processors through the Natural Language Acquisition framework created by Marge Blanc.

I am one of the few trained clinicians in the Central Valley who understands how to work with children who communicate with delayed echolalia (scripting). I can be found on the NLA Trained Clinician Registry from Meaningful Speech as demonstrating mastery of the information regarding GLPs.

Speech sessions integrate the whole child's sensory and communication systems to work on the sensory regulation and engagement required for communication to occur.

Question 3

Why choose Vanguard Speech Therapy?

Accepted Answer

At VST we value the relationships with our clients and families, and truly love what we do! Our therapy is outcomed focused and research driven. We work in close partnerships with families, keeping an open dialogue and striving to achieve your child's goals together. We provide home practice activites to encourage quicker progress, when appropriate. It is our honor to work on improving communication together.
 
We look forward to working with you!

Question 4

Why don't you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

In order for us to focus our time and energy towards client care, we do not take insurance. We have chosen instead to devote our time and resources to providing a service that will benefit our clients more directly without having to worry about it being "covered". 
 
We DO accept cash and all credit cards.

Question 5

What can I expect from the evaluation?

Accepted Answer

An evaluation can last up to 2 hours, depending upon the areas being assessed, and allows the Speech Language Pathologist the opportunity to evaluate speech and language skills through standardized tests, observation, history information, and parent report. Referrals to other professionals may be made if your child is found to have difficulties in areas outside the scope of practice for the SLP, including an Audiologist, ENT, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, or Orthodontist, etc.

After the evaluation, the speech therapist will provide a brief verbal summary of the findings. You will be provided with a written evaluation report. If therapy is recommended, a plan of care will be developed with the family's input. If your child is within developmentally typical range,  there will be no further appointments.

Question 6

Are services virtual or in person?

Accepted Answer

We are currently offering both virtual or in person therapy based on the family's preference.

All in person therapy is from the comfort of your own home, school, day care, or out in the community.

Question 7

How long are therapy sessions?

Accepted Answer

Therapy sessions are typically 25 or 50 minutes, but is ultimately determined by the individual client's needs. Therapy sessions are scheduled for the same time and day each week.

Question 8

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

The current prices as of December 2023 are:

Evaluation: $275.00
Individual Speech Therapy Session (25-minutes): $60.00
Individual Speech Therapy Session (50-minutes): $120.00

A $5.00 charge for mileage will be applied for home health sessions.

A superbill of all charges is available for families that would like to seek reimbursement . Speak with your insurance about out-of-network speech therapy services to find out information about your specific plan.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions