What does a Speech Language Pathologist do?

A Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) is a trained professional who evaluates, diagnoses, and treats children and adults who have communication difficulties (e.g., language delays, speech sound errors, stuttering, pragmatic difficulties, etc.,) and feeding/swallowing disorders.

What does an Occupational Therapist do?

An Occupational therapist is a trained professional who helps children develop their independence while strengthening development of fine and gross motor skills, and sensory and emotional regulation needed for school success and activities of daily living.

When should I seek the services of an SLP or OT?

If you’re concerned about your child’s speech, motor, or sensory development, begin by discussing your concerns with your pediatrician, who can provide a referral for an evaluation if needed. Teachers and childcare providers can also offer helpful insights.

You’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with us to see if an evaluation is recommended. For more guidance, visit the Resources tab on our website for helpful information.

Do you take insurance?

We currently accept some insurance plans. To check if yours is covered, visit the About page on our website and enter your insurance information at the bottom of the page—we’ll follow up with you shortly. You can also scroll to the bottom of our page to see which insurances we are contracted with.

We also accept private pay using major credit cards and can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.

When is payment due? Will there be additional fees associated with late cancellations and no shows?

Payment is due at the time of service. For private-pay clients, the credit card on file in Simple Practice will be charged after each session (a card must be kept on file to receive services).

If using insurance, United Therapy Connections will submit your claim first and charge your card later for any copay or remaining balance once insurance has processed the claim (this may take a few weeks).

Missed appointments without notice will be charged the full session fee. We value your time and ours, so please notify us as soon as possible if you need to cancel. Full details about payments, cancellations, and fees are provided in your intake paperwork.

Are you in contract with Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS)?

Yes we are! TEIS is a voluntary, no-cost program in Tennessee that supports families of infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. While in TEIS, you will not be responsible for any out of pocket therapy cost.

What should I expect at the evaluation appointment?

You and your child will meet the therapist to review intake information and discuss your concerns. Parent participation is essential for younger children, while older children are encouraged to complete the evaluation independently.

Evaluations typically last 30 to 1 hours 45 minutes and include testing and a brief discussion of results and recommendations. A detailed evaluation report will be provided at your child’s first therapy session or sent electronically upon request.

Is there any paperwork to fill out prior to the evaluation appointment?

Prior to the evaluation, you will receive an email from Simple Practice with all the paperwork (e.g., case history, HIPPA forms, consent to treat, insurance, etc.,) you need to fill out prior to the appointment. Simple Practice is a secure portal that is HIPPA compliant and information will be kept confidential.

What is the frequency and duration of therapy sessions?

Each session is personalized to your child’s needs. Based on the evaluation and parent input, the therapist will recommend 30- or 45-minute sessions, once or twice a week. Your child’s sessions will be scheduled for the same day and time each week for consistency unless otherwise agreed upon with your particular therapist.

What is the easiest way to communicate with my therapist?

We highly encouraged you to download the Simple Practice Client portal (make sure is the client version) to communicate with your therapist, cancel your appointment, and request documents via messaging. You can also view appointment days and times, although a 24 hour text message reminder will be sent every week.

Did we not answer your question?

Feel free to reach out to us with any additional questions. WE ARE HAPPY TO HELP!