Find a Speech Pathologist

Finding a speech-language pathologist can be difficult. The process is not always clear. How you find a speech pathologist will depend on where you live and the age of your child.

Birth to 3 Years Old:

1. In the united states, each state has its own early intervention service. Early intervention helps children from ages 0-3 years old.  Click here to find your particular state’s information: Early Intervention Programs in the United States. After a referral has been made, a speech and language evaluation will be completed, most likely in your home. Results will indicate if your child qualifies for early intervention services.
2. Contact your pediatrician for a referral. This is not always necessary to make an appointment but for insurance purposes and/or to know options in your area, it is a great place to start. The speech-language pathologist you contact may work in a clinic or an outpatient rehabilitation center. Your insurance may or may not cover services. Contact your insurance first to see who is in your network, if services are covered and at what rate, and if any paperwork is needed.
3. Find a local speech-language pathologist in your area. The American-Speech-Language Association (ASHA) has a link that helps you find a local professional near you. This may require you to pay out of pocket.

3-5 Years Old:

1. Contact your local public school to set up an evaluation. After 3 years old, your child may qualify for speech-language therapy through the special education department of your school. After a referral has been made, your child will complete an evaluation. Results will indicate if your child qualifies for services.
2. Contact your pediatrician for a referral. This is not always necessary to make an appointment but for insurance purposes and/or to know options in your area, it is a great place to start. The speech-language pathologist you contact may work in a clinic or an outpatient rehabilitation center. Your insurance may or may not cover services. Contact your insurance first to see who is in your network and if any paperwork is needed.
3. Find a local speech-language pathologist in your area who works in a private practice. The American-Speech-Language Association (ASHA) has a link that helps you find a local professional near you. This may require you to pay out of pocket.

5+ Years Old:

1. Contact your child’s teacher with concerns and request a speech and language screening/evaluation through the special education department. If your child qualifies, he/she will receive services at school through the special education department.
2. Find a speech pathologist in your area. The American-Speech-Language Association (ASHA) has a link that helps you find a local professional near you. Your child will receive speech-language therapy after school. The speech-language pathologist may work in a clinic or an outpatient rehabilitation center. Your insurance may or may not cover services. Contact your insurance first to see who is in your network and if any paperwork is needed.

What to ask at your first appointment

Once you find a speech pathologist, learn what questions you should ask.

Asking the right questions will help the therapy process move along quicker!