WHAT I OFFER
Assessment
My first session with a child will be assessment based. This is to allow me to gain a picture of your child's current communication skills, including their speech and language development. This may be done informally through play, sharing games or more formally using standardised assessment tools. Following the assessment I will discuss my findings with parents/carers. This will highlight any strengths and areas to develop, along with further steps to take. A possible outcome may be that your child does not require any therapy or you would like to wait for NHS therapy input. However, if your child is to continue having sessions with me, therapy aims and goals will be discussed. Reports can also be written upon request.
Therapy
Therapy sessions will take place at home or in your child’s educational setting, dependent on your wishes and also the needs of your child. This time includes direct therapy time and time to liaise with the adult present. Therapy is most effective when it is followed up regularly in your child's functional settings. You will therefore receive activities to practice at home. The frequency of therapy sessions is decided according to the individual child’s need and this will be discussed directly with the child’s family at assessment. Please be aware that recommendations for therapy can, and do, change over time as children develop. I have good professional links with NHS and education staff and feel these are essential to help children reach their potential.