Speech Therapist Consultation

A speech therapist is not just a language and speech specialist but also a mentor and friend. They help children express themselves, be heard, say their first word, phrase, or sentence, or find alternative methods of communication through gestures, looks, or sounds. A speech therapist works on developing speech and language, improving sound pronunciation, and enhancing comprehension and communication skills, working with the child at their own pace.

During the consultation, the speech therapist conducts a diagnosis of the child's speech, identifies strengths and weaknesses, finds the root of the issue, and develops recommendations and a further work plan. At MCRN, we provide a comfortable and supportive atmosphere to help the child feel confident and easily engage in the process.

When should you consult a speech therapist?
✔Age 0 to 1.5 years:
It’s essential to get a quality diagnosis, consultation, and recommendations to ensure the child’s speech develops correctly.

✔Age 1.5 to 2.5 years:
If the child does not have full words like "mom," "dad," "grandma," but talks actively in their "own" incomprehensible language.

✔Age 2.5 to 3.5 years:
If the child understands everything but doesn’t want to speak, doesn’t respond to questions, communicates with gestures and mumbling, and uses only a few words without meaningful phrases.

✔Age 3.5 to 5/6 years:
If the child softens all sounds ("kitya" instead of "kit," "syapka" instead of "shapka"), distorts them (lisps, nasalizes, or rolls sounds), doesn’t form phrases and sentences, and avoids verbal communication.

✔When the child starts school:
-If problems with reading and communication arise, and the child struggles to construct sentences and express thoughts
-Pay attention to writing difficulties: skipping or mixing up letters, writing them reversed or mirrored, or forming text without punctuation marks

Why is it important to consult a speech therapist on time?
-You can detect and correct speech development disorders early or find alternative communication methods.
-Sessions with a speech therapist will help the child communicate more confidently with others.
-The therapist will provide recommendations to foster speech and language development at home.
-Even if no visible issues exist, a consultation ensures that the child’s speech is developing harmoniously.

How is the consultation conducted?
The speech therapist speaks with the parents to learn about concerns or requests, followed by an individual test session with the child. This may include conversations, games, drawing, or special test tasks. At MCRN, everything is designed to ensure the child feels comfortable and experiences no pressure. At the end of the consultation, you will receive recommendations, a report, and a treatment plan from the specialist.

Contraindications:
There are no absolute contraindications for a speech therapy consultation, as it is a safe process that is always tailored to the child’s condition and needs. However, informing the therapist of any accompanying illnesses or conditions is essential before the visit. Also, avoid the session if the child is unwell. In such cases, we recommend opting for an online consultation or rescheduling.

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