Questions about services
Is a doctor's referral required for Speech Therapy?
Referrals are not necessary for assessment or treatment of speech or language. Certain medical information may be requested, with your permission, in order to appropriately customize your treatment.
If you have concerns about your voice, the assessment report from your Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist is required so that therapy is appropriate to your diagnosis. If your ENT has not provided you with any written information, we can help you request this information be sent to our office.
What is done during the assessment?
The assessment is used to determine what you hope to gain from therapy, and to assist you to set realistic and attainable goals. The assessment is customized based on your concerns and may involve formal testing or discussion and/or questionnaires to gain more information about your lifestyle, personality, work and medical history.
What is involved in therapy?
Therapy techniques are individualized so that they make sense to you. The goal of each therapy session is for you to leave with something that you can practice and can be built on in the next session and implemented in your day to day life.
Why is practice in between sessions recommended?
A Speech-Language Pathologist can only guide you through the exercises and modifications necessary to improve and maintain your speech, language or voice. You use your communication skills all day, everyday. Transfer of the skills learned in therapy begins early in the therapy process. Daily practice is the best way to solidify what you are learning during your therapy sessions.
How many sessions will I need?
Once the assessment has been completed and your goals are clear it is much easier to predict the course of therapy. Each case is individual. The amount of practice you do between sessions will impact the number of sessions you will require and your satisfaction with the outcome of your treatment.
Can someone accompany me to therapy?
You are welcome to have a friend or family member with you. If English is not your first language it may be helpful to bring someone who can interpret anything that may be difficult to understand as sessions are conducted in English. Most sessions have an educational component so you may wish to have friends or family members receive this information as well.
In order to make the most of your session, it is recommended that you make alternate arrangements for young children who cannot entertain themselves.
Questions about Fees
What are your fees?
Fees follow the recommended fee schedule of the Ontario Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists. Session fees are based on a per hour rate. A travel surcharge may be charged for services provided in your home.
Cancellation charges
We understand that sometimes you need to make a change. There is no charge to reschedule an appointment with more than 24 hours notice. Cancellations or changes made more than 3 hours but less than 24 hours before your appointment will be charged at 50%. Missed appointment and late cancellations (less than 3 hours) will be charged full session rate.
Are Speech-Language Pathology services covered by insurance?
Private Speech-Language Pathology services are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Many employers provide Extended Health Benefits (EHB) plans to their employees. Speech-Language Pathology assessment and treatment is often a benefit under these plans. Please check with your EHB insurer to find out if you have benefits. Some insurers require a physician's referral in order for you to claim for reimbursement.
Speech-Language Pathology services are considered a medical service. Fees paid may be eligible for an income tax credit.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payments are due at the end of each session.
Our office is proud to be able to direct bill many EHB plans. If you have partial coverage, you will only have to pay the balance at the time of your appointment.
We accept cash, cheque, e-transfer, Visa and Mastercard.
It is your responsibility to know what your EHB benefits are, to monitor your coverage allowance and apply for reimbursement from your insurer