Speech questions for over 3 (approval, cost if self pay, etc)

Can anyone tell me the process of getting your child speech help after 3? If you are approved, do you go to them or they go to you? What kinds of things are likely to get approval? And if not approved, how much might it cost if you just self pay someone (and how to find them)?

Sorry for all the questions! Hoping someone can help answer them.

Re: Speech questions for over 3 (approval, cost if self pay, etc)

I'm sure each town is different, but for DS when EI you either will get evaluated with the local pre-school for Special Ed classes or you pay on your own
I'm in NJ
I had to write a letter to the local pre-school. They have 3 Special Ed programs that works with kids with different levels.
If he doesn't qualify for it or I decide not to have him go I might just pay a Speech therapist to work with him.
Haven't gotten that far yet. I have a meeting with the pre-school in a few weeks

Re: Speech questions for over 3 (approval, cost if self pay, etc)

you need to contact your school district.. after 3 its considered CPSE and the rules and standards change...

once you contact your SD they will direct you in the correct direction or you can call an evaluation center but you must still register your DC with your SD.

if they are not approved for CPSE, you can go through your insurance and depending on what the coverage is, that is what they will cover.. most will do maybe 6-12 sessions a YEAR!

as for out of pocket expenses.. i can't help you there...

do they come to you.. that depends on your district.. but most will tell you to go to a center for speech. (cost more to have therapist come to you)

Re: Speech questions for over 3 (approval, cost if self pay, etc)

My dd is 3.5 and gets speech at home. The sessions are 30 minutes. My district gave her 4 sessions for home or center (agency), our choice.

I also pay someone privately to come to my home for PROMPT therapy. It's $90 for 45 minutes. She does not take insurance but my insurance will pay 60% of it for out network once we reach our deductible (our deductible is high). PROMPT certified therapists are difficult to find but a therapist who is not certified in any certain speciality would probably cost much less if you pay out of pocket.

First step is to call your district and tell them you would like an evaluation. The process is really quick.

Going to FM you ways to find therapists if you don't want to go through the school district.

Message edited 2/2/2012 3:20:11 PM.