How do we get started?
If your child has not had a speech and language evaluation in the last six months, we’ll begin by scheduling one. After the evaluation, we’ll review the results together to determine if therapy is recommended and set up appropriate services.
If your child has already completed a speech/language evaluation within the past six months, we can move forward more quickly—during our 15-minute consultation call, we’ll review the report and schedule your child to begin direct therapy right away.
How long are our therapy sessions?
Standard sessions: 45–60 minutes (most common for school-age children).
Younger children (toddlers/preschoolers): Often 30 minutes, since shorter bursts are more effective for attention span.
Parent coaching/consultation sessions: 30–45 minutes.
What is gestalt language?
If your child uses “scripting” or delayed echolalia, they may be a gestalt language processor. Children typically learn language in one of two main ways:
Analytic processing – language is learned step by step, one word at a time. For example: “mom” → “mom go” → “mom go up.”
Gestalt processing – language is learned in larger “chunks” or memorized scripts. Instead of starting with single words, children first use whole phrases, songs, or lines from movies. Over time, they break these scripts down into smaller parts and begin combining them more flexibly.
Many autistic children (over 85%) are gestalt language processors, though neurotypical children may also develop language this way. Delayed echolalia — repeating phrases or scripts — is one of the ways these learners acquire and practice language.
How you work with gestalt?
We follow the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework, developed by Marge Blanc, to support children who are gestalt language processors. This approach helps them grow from using delayed echolalia (scripts or repeated phrases) toward creating their own original, self-generated language. In this process, their echolalia isn’t dismissed — it’s recognized, validated, and valued as an important step in language development.
What ages do you work with?
We provide speech therapy for individuals from age 2 through young adulthood (up to 21 years old). While we welcome clients at any stage, research consistently shows that earlier intervention leads to stronger long-term outcomes. Starting therapy in the toddler and preschool years can make a significant difference in communication, social skills, and overall development — laying the foundation for future success. At the same time, it’s never too late to benefit from therapy, and we tailor our approach to meet each child or young adult right where they are.
Can I be present for my child’s therapy session?Yes! we encourage it! We welcome family involvement in sessions because it gives us the chance to connect, share strategies, and show you how to carry therapy into everyday routines. This helps reinforce your child’s progress and makes communication growth a natural part of home life.
Can you work with my child if they see another speech therapist as well?
We believe collaboration is key to a child’s success. If your child already receives speech therapy at school, we’re happy to partner with their school-based SLP to make sure goals are aligned and progress is consistent. For example, if the school SLP is targeting classroom vocabulary and social communication, we might reinforce those same skills at home through play-based activities and parent coaching. This teamwork helps your child experience continuity across home, school, and therapy.
Don't see your question? Give us a call! We will be happy to answer your questions, discuss your concerns, and provide guidance on the next steps.