FAQs

What are the benefits of taking my child to see a Speech and Language Therapist?

Speech and Language Therapists have studied to degree level and received highly specialist training in all aspects of communication development. They are qualified in making assessments and in treating children with all forms of communication difficulty. They will be able to offer you specialist advice on how to help your child.

Why choose an independent therapist?

There is no difference in the training or qualifications of an independent therapist and an NHS therapist. Both West London Speech and Language Therapy therapists work for the NHS as well as independently. An independent therapist may be able to see your child sooner than an NHS therapist and may have more flexibility in the therapy they can offer. They can also see your child at home or nursery/school where your child may be more comfortable.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No, you can refer your child to West London Speech and Language Therapy yourself. Email info@West London Speech and Language Therapy.co.uk or ring for a free initial telephone consultation:
Suzanne: 07815 305107
Aoife: 07708 102289

Where does the therapy take place?

Assessment and therapy sessions take place at our clinic, in your home or at your child’s nursery or school. West London Speech and Language Therapy therapists are based in Chiswick.

How many sessions will my child need and how long will they last?

This will depend on your child's individual needs, the nature of their communication difficulty and response to therapy. You may be offered a block of therapy sessions followed by a review of your child’s progress at which point further input will be discussed. A standard therapy session lasts 45/40 minutes. Most of this time will be spent working directly with your child but will include some time to discuss your child’s progress and new activities to work on. You are free to withdraw your child from therapy at any time.

Can I watch the sessions?

It is really important that you attend all sessions so that the Speech and Language Therapist can demonstrate activities to you and show you ways in which you can help your child. The interactions that you have with your child on a daily basis are key to enabling your child to make progress. If your child is seen at nursery/school, you are also encouraged to attend when appropriate. If this is not possible, the therapist will email you with a summary of the session and activities to continue at home during the week.

How much do the sessions cost?

Please see the Services and Fees page.

How can I find out if a therapist is qualified?

All Speech and Language Therapists should be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). One of its key functions is to maintain and publish a register of health professionals who meet national standards:
www.hpc-uk.org

Registered members of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) adhere to the ethical and professional standards outlined by RCSLT. A list of registered members is available on their website:
www.rcslt.org/about/membership/members

The Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP) requires all speech and language therapists listed on their database to be registered with the HCPC and a member of the RCSLT:
www.helpwithtalking.com