VISTA SLT Speech and Language Therapy blog

Why should I pay for Speech and Language Therapy?

Access to intensive, regular therapy

While the amount of therapy required will vary between clients, independent Speech Therapists can offer more frequent therapy sessions than their NHS counterparts. Research has shown that having access to regular Speech and Language Therapy leads to more rapid progress and better recovery for many speech and language difficulties.

More one to one sessions

Many NHS services can only offer a limited number of sessions due to large caseloads or long waiting lists. Private Speech Therapists offer therapy for as long as the client may benefit meaning that we can maximise the improvement you or your loved one makes.

Private Speech Therapists will generally work with their clients until:

• The client is at a level which is considered ‘within normal limits’
• The client is no longer benefitting from therapy
• The client has significantly improved and is likely to progress without further therapy or support
• The client decides to end therapy

Building a strong therapeutic relationship

While private Speech and Language Therapists may work in partnership to provide high quality care, they do not routinely share caseloads. This means that you or your loved one will generally work with the same Therapist for all of your sessions.

Working consistently with the same Therapist is highly beneficial and is not guaranteed in NHS services due to caseload demands. By working with you or your loved one regularly and consistently, private Speech Therapists can better understand the context of your life and can tailor therapy to suit your needs.

In children’s NHS services, Speech and Language Therapy is often delivered via visits to school or nurseries. This can make it difficult for parents to feel they understand the Therapist’s concerns following assessment and the focus of therapy. Working with private Speech Therapists allows you to be present for all your child’s sessions to learn strategies and support your child to practice at home to boost their progress.

Support as soon as you need it

Most private Speech Therapy providers operate with little to no waiting time for assessment. This is in contrast to many NHS services which often have long waiting lists for support.

Many speech and language concerns can be managed, and often improved more effectively with timely access to therapy. We understand that when you, or a loved one, are experiencing speech or swallowing difficulties, you will be fearful of what this might mean and whether it can be improved. Being able to access prompt support at this worrying time will surely offer reassurance. It may also expedite support from other professionals (e.g. Physiotherapists, Neurologists, Educational Psychologists) if the Speech Therapist feels it is appropriate to request an onward referral following assessment.

A flexible approach to therapy

Working in independent practice means that Speech and Language Therapists can think creatively when planning therapy sessions. Private Speech Therapists are often focused on therapy activities being used in a ‘functional’ context, meaning that they will encourage you or your loved one to practice communication in real life settings such as cafes or shops. For adults with communication difficulties, this can be especially helpful in working towards a return to work-related activity following rehabilitation.

The ability to choose

When instructing a private Speech and Language Therapist, you have the power to choose the person you feel matches your values and needs. You may wish to consider the Therapist’s background and expertise as well as any available reviews or testimonials, as part of your decision making. The Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP) provides advice on questions to ask when enquiring with private Speech Therapists. Click here to access this guidance via our website. Independent Speech and Language Therapists are happy to answer any questions you may have during your initial consultation to help you to decide if they are the right fit for you or your loved one.

The value of experience

It is important to consider that most independent Speech Therapists are highly experienced. Many have moved into independent practice several years into their careers to focus on areas of specialism. This ensures high quality therapy in line with the relevant clinical guidelines and current research.

Charges for independent Speech and Language Therapy will vary between providers. ASLTIP encourages Therapists to form their own pay structure, taking into account their experience and specialist skills or training. If you have any further questions after reading this blog post, please do not hesitate to contact us.