Your child’s been referred to a speech-language pathologist. What happens next?
Brigitte Dobrzanski at Key to Speech in Orleans. Photo Courtesy Brigitte Dobrzanski
Communication is the essence of human interaction, says Brigitte Dobrzanski. But for some, that doesn’t come without effort and support.
That’s where speech therapy comes in—it can significantly improve a child’s communication skills, including their ability to express themselves, understand others, and interact socially, says Dobrzanski, an Orleans-based speech-language pathologist.
“It can also enhance their academic performance by addressing underlying language difficulties that impact reading and writing,” she says. Therapy “can boost a child’s confidence and self-esteem, enabling them to participate more fully in social and educational activities.”
Families find their paths to Dobrzanski’s speech therapy clinic, Key to Speech, in a variety of ways.
Many families, says Dobrzanski, are provided with a list of private clinics in Ottawa through the First Words program. Other avenues include family doctors and other health professionals such as ear, nose and throat specialists, psychologists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists. Dobrzanski also receives clients through word-of-mouth. “This combination of referrals helps us reach a wide range of children and provide the support they need,” she says.
The majority of Dobrzanski’s clients are children, ranging from early years to school-aged, but they face a variety of speech and language challenges.
“Some of the common issues we work on include speech sound disorders, language delays, stuttering, social communication difficulties, and developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder,” says Dobrzanski. The clinic also offers services for voice disorders and literacy skills. “Our goal is to tailor our therapy to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring they receive the most effective and personalized care.”
A speech-language pathologist for the past seven years, Dobrzanski has worked in various settings, including schools, hospitals and private clinics.
Brigitte Dobrzanski. Photo Courtesy Brigitte Dobrzanski
Parents and guardians would be some of the first to notice that a child may be experiencing a speech delay or disorder.
Signs of delay to be aware of include not babbling or using gestures by 12 months; limited or no word use by 18 months; difficulty understanding or following simple directions; limited vocabulary compared to peers; difficulty being understood by others; stuttering and struggling with social interactions or making friends, says Dobrzanski. “If parents notice any of these signs,” she adds, “seek a professional assessment as early intervention is key.”
The first step
If parents should notice any flags, the first step is to contact a qualified speech-language pathologist for an evaluation, says Dobrzanski. “Parents can reach out to local clinics, such as Key to Speech, or ask for referrals from their pediatrician or family doctor.”
“Early assessment and intervention are crucial in addressing speech and language issues effectively,” Dobrzanski says. Although clients do not need a referral to initiate services in private practice, insurance coverage may require a doctor’s referral.
After the assessment
Following the initial assessment, the speech-language pathologist will provide a clinical impression outlining the child’s strengths and areas of need, says Dobrzanski. A customized therapy plan will then be developed with the parents, who are included in the care. The plan may include individual or group sessions, home practice activities, and regular progress monitoring.
“The therapist will work closely with the family to ensure they are actively involved in the child’s development and progress,” says Dobrzanski.
Repeat often
The duration and frequency of therapy depend on each child’s needs, although typically, clients attend sessions weekly or biweekly, says Dobrzanski.
SLPs often collaborate with their counterparts in schools and the CHEO First Words program to ensure continuity of care across the different services, and equip parents with tools to continue working on speech development outside of the therapy room.
The length of therapy can vary from a few months to several years— this is based on the severity of the issues and the child’s progress. For many clients, there’s a finish line in sight.
“Many children eventually graduate from therapy as they achieve their communication goals,” says Dobrzanski, “but ongoing support may be provided if needed.”
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Choosing a speech-language pathologist
Parents should look for:
- Proper credentials and licensing
- Experience working with children
- A warm and engaging personality
- Evidence-based practice
- An SLP who is a good fit for the family
— Brigitte Dobrzanski
Brigitte Dobrzanski’s tips for supporting a child’s speech development at home
- Engage in regular conversations and read together
- Encourage play that involves communication and social interaction
- Model speech and language
- Use everyday activities to expand vocabulary and language skills
- Be patient and positive, celebrating progress no matter how small
Did you know?
Key to Speech also provides speech therapy services to adults, particularly in areas such as voice and swallowing disorders.