Frequently Asked Questions
About Our Services
What areas do you cover?
I provide speech and language therapy throughout Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray. This includes Aberdeen city, Inverurie, Ellon, Westhill, Stonehaven, Banchory, Huntly, Fraserburgh, Peterhead, and surrounding communities. I'm happy to discuss your specific location during our free consultation.
Do you offer online speech therapy sessions?
Yes, I provide both online and in-person therapy sessions. Online sessions work very well for many children and offer flexibility for busy families. I also offer home visits, school visits, and nursery visits depending on what works best for your child. We can discuss the most appropriate setting during your initial consultation.
What ages do you work with?
I work with children and young people from birth to 16 years old. My 25+ years of experience means I can support children at every developmental stage, from babies developing their first communication skills through to teenagers working on more complex language and social communication needs.
Getting Started
How do I book an appointment?
Getting started is easy. I offer a free initial consultation where we can discuss your child's needs and answer any questions you have. You can contact me through the contact form on this website or email me directly at info@speechtherapycc.com. I typically respond within 24 hours to arrange a convenient time.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a comprehensive assessment where I get to know your child and understand their communication strengths and challenges. I use standardized assessment tools appropriate for their age and needs. After the assessment, I'll discuss my findings with you and provide recommendations. You'll receive a summary report, and a detailed report is available on request.
How long will my child need therapy?
Every child is different, so the length of therapy varies. After the initial assessment, I'll provide recommendations based on your child's specific needs. Some children benefit from short-term, intensive support, while others need ongoing sessions over a longer period. We'll review progress regularly and adjust the therapy plan as needed.
How long are therapy sessions?
Session length depends on your child's age, attention span, and specific needs. Typically, sessions range from 30 minutes to an hour. For younger children, shorter, more frequent sessions often work best, while older children may benefit from longer sessions.
Conditions and Support
What conditions do you help with?
I support children with a wide range of speech, language, and communication needs, including:
-
Speech sound disorders - articulation difficulties, phonological disorders, dyspraxia, motor speech disorders
-
Language disorders - developmental language disorder, early language delays, difficulties with understanding or expressing language
-
Specific conditions - autism spectrum disorder, cleft palate, fetal alcohol syndrome disorder, learning disabilities
-
Other areas - attention and listening skills, auditory processing, non-verbal communication, play skills, pre-verbal communication, sign language (Makaton), social communication challenges, stammering, and voice disorders
When should I be concerned about my child's speech development?
Every child develops at their own pace, but there are some signs that may indicate a need for support. Consider seeking advice if your child:
-
Isn't using single words by 18 months or two-word phrases by age 2
-
Is difficult for family members to understand by age 3
-
Struggles to follow simple instructions appropriate for their age
-
Has difficulty playing or interacting with other children
-
Shows frustration when trying to communicate
-
Stammers or stutters persistently
-
Has a noticeably different voice quality (very hoarse, nasal, or breathy)
If you have any concerns about your child's communication development, trust your instincts and get in touch for a consultation. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.
Do you work with children who have autism?
Yes, I have extensive experience supporting children with autism spectrum disorder. I understand the unique communication challenges that can come with autism and use evidence-based approaches tailored to each child's needs. This includes supporting verbal and non-verbal communication, social communication skills, and understanding. I'm also a certified Makaton tutor, which can be particularly helpful for some children with autism.
Practical Information
Where do sessions take place?
I offer flexible options to suit your family's needs:
-
Home visits - I come to your home, where your child is most comfortable
-
School or nursery visits - I can work with your child in their educational setting
-
Online sessions - Video sessions that work well for many children and families
We can discuss the best option during your initial consultation.
How can I support my child's therapy at home?
Parent involvement is crucial to successful speech and language therapy. I provide practical strategies and activities you can use at home to support your child's progress between sessions. I'll give you specific guidance tailored to your child's needs and show you how to incorporate therapy goals into everyday activities and play. Many parents find that these home practice activities become a natural part of family life.
Do you offer training for parents and educators?
Yes, in addition to therapy services, I offer training workshops for parents, carers, and educational professionals. These include information sessions on speech and language development, workshops on creating communication-rich environments, and training for medical and administrative staff on supporting clients with communication difficulties. Please get in touch to discuss your specific training needs.
Qualifications and Experience
Are you qualified and registered?
Yes, I am fully qualified and registered with:
-
The Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists (RCSLT)
-
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
-
The Association of Speech & Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
I graduated from the University of Strathclyde in 1999 and have over 25 years of experience working with children and young people. I'm also a Makaton Charity Ambassador and certified tutor in Makaton, the Derbyshire Language Scheme, and Elklan. I'm committed to continuing professional development and regularly complete specialist training courses to ensure I provide the best possible care.
What is your experience?
I have 25 years of experience as a speech and language therapist, having worked in various NHS Grampian settings including specialized education, hospitals, and mental health services. This diverse background has given me a deep understanding of children's communication needs across different contexts. I've also volunteered with Archie Child Bereavement Services for three years as a bereavement counselor, which has equipped me with skills to support children with complex emotional and language needs.
Still Have Questions?
If you have a question that isn't answered here, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I offer a free initial consultation where we can discuss your child's specific needs and how I can help.
Contact me today to arrange your free consultation.