Questions About Speech Therapy

Is there a difference between speech therapist, speech pathologist, or speech-language pathologist?
No, these terms are interchangeable. It doesn’t matter which of the above terms you use, speech-language pathologists are trained and licensed to provide services for the diagnosis and treatment of communication, voice, cognitive and swallowing disorders in people of all ages. 

Where are you located?
Our private clinic is in Fife Heights, which is between Federal Way and Tacoma.

How do I know if I should be evaluated?
If you are concerned, there may be a valid reason. It is worth a phone call to see if an evaluation is warranted. An evaluation does NOT always indicate a need for therapy.  We offer a free, 30-minute phone call with no commitment. Let’s talk about your concerns.

What can caregivers do to help someone?
Caregivers are one of the most important keys to a person’s success because they are with them in their daily lives. Caregivers, friends and family members are always invited to attend portions of therapy sessions. During that time they can watch the Speech Pathologist work with the individual and learn how to practice outside of therapy…at home in their everyday environment between visits.

How often should we attend therapy?
There is strong research supporting that “frequency” of therapy is key to skill acquisition. The number of sessions per week depends upon each person’s diagnoses and needs, but our general rule of thumb is two times per week with home practice between therapy visits.

Do you take insurance?
Yes, we accept Regence and Premera insurance.

What ages of patients do you work with?
Our specialty is working with adults. We do not provide services for children.

Is there a time limit for how long a person can respond to therapy?
No! As long as you are doing therapy that is resulting in progress, there is no time limit. Several research studies have been done on people who had a stroke 10 or more years prior and still improved their skills. There is historical and ongoing research about “neuroplasticity.”  This means that our brains can increase the representation of a skill if a person exercises that skill following specific guidelines.  On the other hand, if a skill is not practiced, over time the brain representation of that skill diminishes.   Use it or lose it…Exercise to improve it!

Contact us
for a FREE phone consult

• We will discuss your situation

• Get all your questions answered

• Plan the next steps

There is NO COST or OBLIGATION
for this initial phone call.