Speech therapist: how to find a specialist for a child or adult
What a speech therapist works on
Many people think a speech therapist is only for children who cannot say certain sounds. In fact the range is wider: correcting sounds, delayed speech, stammering, dyslexia and dysgraphia in school children, and speech problems after a stroke in adults. So describe briefly what exactly worries you.
If a child has a diagnosis, such as dysarthria or developmental delay, or you suspect a hearing problem, talk to a doctor first: a neurologist or an ENT specialist can give an opinion. A speech therapist works together with such recommendations.
How to find a speech therapist through BlaBlaPrice
Instead of writing to every specialist, create one request: the client's age, what the problem is, the format of sessions, area. It is checked and you are told what is missing. Speech therapists reply in the chat: experience, price per session, schedule, and whether they do an assessment. They can see where their offer ranks and may improve their terms. Reviews are shown next to each one. Your phone number stays hidden until you choose a specialist. Read more on the “How it works” page.
What to put in your request
- Speech problem — cannot say certain sounds, delayed speech, stammering, dysgraphia, after a stroke.
- Age of the child or adult.
- Diagnosis, if there is one, for example dysarthria or a neurologist's report.
- What you need — assessment, sound correction, speech therapy massage, sessions with a special educator.
- Format — online, at a clinic or with a home visit.
- How often — for example, 2 times a week.
- Area and budget per session.
Example: “Ang Mo Kio. My child is 5 and cannot say the “r” sound, but the rest of the speech is developed. We need an assessment and sound correction, 2 times a week, preferably in person at a clinic. Budget up to $10 per session.”
How to compare offers
Speech therapy is not one session but a process, so judge the price together with the expected number of sessions. Sessions for adults (for example, after a stroke) and for children use different methods, so look for a specialist with the right experience.
- Ask whether there is an initial assessment and whether it is included in the price.
- Check experience with your exact problem and age: working on stammering and on correcting sounds are different areas.
- Find out how long a session lasts and whether they give exercises for home. Without practice at home, progress is usually slower.
- Ask for a rough plan: how many sessions may be needed, though the specialist can give the exact number only after the assessment.
For small children a playful form and a calm approach matter, so read parents' reviews and, if possible, arrange an introduction. Be careful with anyone who promises a result in a few sessions without an assessment.
For a wider look at child development specialists see child development, speech therapists, and for learning see tutors. Other areas are in the “Education and sports services” section.
