A speech-language pathologist (SLP) will conduct an initial evaluation, consisting of a case history, a range of standardized or informal assessments, and clinical observation. The SLP will use the information from this evaluation to determine a diagnosis and recommend an appropriate frequency and duration of speech therapy. The SLP will use evaluation findings, as well as your therapy priorities to create a treatment plan of measurable and achievable long-term and short-term goals. The patient will attend speech therapy according to the SLP’s recommended frequency and duration. During each therapy session, the patient will complete a variety of therapeutic tasks prepared by the SLP and data will be recorded in order to track progress. The SLP will also recommend ways to work toward achieving the patient’s goals outside of the therapy sessions by providing ways to practice those skills in other environments (e.g., home, school, in the community). The patient will receive progress reports at regular intervals (e.g., every six months). Once the patient has achieved all long-term goals, the patient will be discharged from speech therapy.
