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Frequently Asked Questions

How frequent and how long are therapy sessions?

In short - it depends on your or your child's needs. Based on current research regarding treatment dosage, sessions are typically 30 to 45 minutes at the onset of therapy. Depending on the type and severity of needs, speech-language therapy is recommended anywhere from one, two, or three times per week. Group sessions may be longer in duration, but less frequent.

 

Oftentimes, communication needs ebb and flow. The ability to increase or decrease as needed is another benefit of choosing private practice and CSLS.

What is teletherapy?

Teletherapy is also called telepractice, online speech therapy, or virtual therapy. Most people have now had experience of some kind using videoconferencing, but whatever your experience has been, we will work together to ensure positive outcomes (e.g. initial coaching session, ongoing communication, etc.). As always, determining the most effective therapy procedures will be a whole-team effort.

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Teletherapy has been endorsed by the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA), the national governing body for speech-language pathologists, since 2005. Due to the need for service delivery model changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the body of evidence for teletherapy's effectiveness has increased.

Do you accept insurance?

At this time, CSLS does not accept insurance. I accept HSA, FSA, cash, check, and bank card payments. If you would like to seek reimbursement from your insurance company, I can provide you with a superbill. CSLS never guarantees reimbursement from insurance, and is not responsible for any insurance matters.

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The choice for CSLS to be out-of-network with insurance companies was intentionally made so that families have more control over the therapy process. By choosing private pay, you know the exact amount you will pay and you will not have limitations on the number of sessions you are allowed.

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In addition, I am motivated by the field of speech-language pathology and connecting with families. I am not driven by dealing with insurance companies, which would take countless hours away from time that could be devoted to therapy planning. Being out-of-network allows me to keep my rates as low as possible and to better support clients' communication needs.

My child receives communication services at school. Can they receive private therapy?

Yes. First, as a private speech-language pathologist, I enjoy collaborating with the school SLP to develop a comprehensive plan to support whole-child growth and to support carryover of skills that will help the student make efficient progress. 

 

Second, speech-language goals in school legally must support a student's ability to make progress with the school's standards. In private practice, we have the ability to target skills that may more directly relate to a student's environments outside of the academic setting (e.g. various social settings, at home, on the job, etc.).

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Results from a child's recent school evaluation may be used as part of the initial evaluation at CSLS with parent consent.

My child did not qualify for speech-language services in the school. Can they receive private therapy?

Yes. Students must meet strict eligibility requirements in order to receive speech-language services in the schools. In private therapy, a child can receive services that they may not qualify for in schools. These services are a great way to for children to gain skills will greatly benefit them across their environments. 

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It is important to note that not all individuals evaluated by CSLS will demonstrate a need for direct therapy services (e.g. a child who is using age-appropriate skills). Recommendations are always based on client need.

Would you consider seeing children under the age of 5?

Yes. At this time, I am focusing on communication needs that are the most motivating to me, which results in the most effective therapy. However, these needs can present in children under the age of 5. Please contact me to discuss.

community speech and language services

612-293-9392
maria.sperl.slp@gmail.com
Minnesota, USA
Contact CSLS

© 2024 Community Speech & Language Services, LLC.

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