FAQs

What is a speech-language pathologist? 

A speech-language pathologist evaluates, diagnoses, and provides treatment for children and adults with communication disorders, including speech, language, cognitive, and voice disorders. Speech-language pathologists must have a state license and at least a master’s degree to practice. 

What is teletherapy? 

Teletherapy is the online delivery of speech and language therapy via high-resolution, live video conferencing. Teletherapy is similar to traditional speech/language therapy, and its effectiveness is supported by research (e.g., Wales et al., 2017; Isaki & Fangman Farrell, 2015; Grogan-Johnson et al., 2013). During therapy sessions, the client and speech-language pathologist can see, hear, and interact with one another in real-time, using webcams and a live, synchronous online environment. Licensed speech-language pathologists use therapy techniques and activities that are enhanced through innovative software and tools. Beyond Words can deliver you high-quality teletherapy services. 

Do you work with children and adults? 

Yes, Beyond Words provides services to clients of all ages. 

For which states do you provide services? 

An advantage of teletherapy is clients can receive it anywhere, anytime. Beyond Words provides speech and language teletherapy services for clients located in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Colorado.

What are the benefits of teletherapy for speech and language services? 

• Convenience: Speech/language teletherapy can be provided any time that is convenient for you. Teletherapy can be done from anywhere with a stable internet connection. No one wants to wait hours in a clinic, especially parents and professionals with busy schedules.  
• Consistency: Life happens. Vehicle breakdowns, late work meetings, and weather conditions can prevent in-person appointments from occurring. Teletherapy eliminates these obstacles because clients receive more consistent speech/language therapy. Teletherapy helps to accelerate progress and avoid regression. 
• Eliminate travel: Speech/language sessions often occur more than once per week, forcing you to drive or take public transportation to an office multiple times weekly. With teletherapy, you can avoid the commute and accumulating travel or gas expenses. 
• Promptness: You don’t need to worry about making it to your appointment on time because you got lost or stuck in traffic. You do not face these hassles with teletherapy because you do not need to go to an office. Your sessions will always start on time. 
• Research-backed: Research shows that teletherapy is on par with traditional, face-to-face therapy when it comes to effectiveness (e.g., Wales et al., 2017; Isaki & Fangman Farrell, 2015; Grogan-Johnson et al., 2013). 

How does teletherapy work for toddlers or preschool-aged children? 

For children under the age of two, Beyond Words’ speech-language pathologist will guide you in using language eliciting techniques while you play with your child. The goal is to enhance prelinguistic skills. For children ages two to three, Beyond Words’ speech-language pathologist will target speech and language skills through play. 

Why is Beyond Words uniquely qualified to provide speech and language teletherapy services? 

Our speech-language pathologist has board certification as a telepractice specialist from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. She is certified and trained to deliver high-quality virtual speech and language therapy. Additionally, our speech-language pathologist is an expert in the field, having received a doctorate, the highest degree possible.  

How do I know if I should be concerned about my child’s speech and language development? 

If you have any concerns, trust your instincts. Promptly contact Beyond Words to schedule an evaluation, and you will be able to find out your child’s communication strengths and needs. If therapy services are warranted, research supports that earlier intervention is more effective in improving outcomes. 

What do speech/language evaluations entail? 

Before the evaluation, the client, parent, or caregiver will complete a case history questionnaire, including medical status, education, development, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds. If applicable, the speech-language pathologist will review previous evaluations and other paperwork, such as Individualized Education Programs. The speech-language pathologist will complete standardized testing and informal assessments during the evaluation based on the client’s needs. After the evaluation, the speech-language pathologist will review the results and recommendations with the client, parent, or caregiver. If the client has been evaluated elsewhere recently, an evaluation may not be necessary to start services at Beyond Words. 

What is a treatment plan? 

The speech-language pathologist will develop an individualized treatment plan based on the needs of the client. The treatment plan includes a diagnosis, short- and long-term speech/language goals, and prognosis. 

Do you accept insurance? 

Beyond Words is private pay practice, which allows us to fully dedicate our time to providing high-quality therapeutic services. We accept various forms of payment, including cash, check, and credit card. Payment is due at the time of service.

What are your hours? 

Our hours are by appointment only. We can also accommodate school-aged children and working adults by providing flexible appointment scheduling, such as evenings and after-school hours.