What to Expect at a Speech Therapy Initial Evaluation

Starting speech therapy can be an exciting and hopeful step toward improving communication skills. An initial evaluation is a crucial part of the process, as it helps the speech-language pathologist understand your unique needs and create a personalized treatment plan. Here's what you can expect during this initial evaluation.

1. Intake and Background Information

Before the evaluation, you'll likely complete an intake form that gathers important background information. This may include medical history, developmental milestones, previous therapy interventions, and family history of speech or language issues. 

2. Client-Caregiver Interview

The speech-language pathologist will conduct an initial interview to gather more detailed information. This is a great opportunity to discuss concerns and personal goals. 

3. Assessment Activities

The therapist will use a variety of assessment tools and activities to evaluate different aspects of speech and language. These may include a variety of standardized assessments, informal observations and games/activities to build rapport. 

4. Discussion and Recommendations

After the assessment, the therapist will discuss the findings with you. They will explain the diagnosis, if any, and provide recommendations for therapy. This may include frequency and duration of sessions, specific goals and objectives, possible referrals and home practice activities.

5. Creating a Treatment Plan

Finally, the therapist will collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan will outline the goals, strategies, and expected outcomes of the therapy. It's essential to be involved in this process and ask any questions you may have.

Conclusion

The initial evaluation in speech therapy is a comprehensive process designed to understand your unique needs and set the foundation for effective treatment. This is a crucial part in providing the necessary support you or a loved one may need to be successful.