Frequently Asked Questions

What is speech and language therapy?

Speech and Language therapist are HCPC registered health professionals who provide assessment, treatment and ongoing support for children and adults with a variety of communication needs.

Here at Mid Cornwall Speech and Language Therapy, we specialise in offering services to children and young people under the age of 18 years.

If you are looking for an independent speech and language therapist that specialises in adult services, the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice – www.ASLTIP.com – provides a post code search of therapists in your local area.

How do I know if an assessment will help my child/young person?

We offer a free telephone discussion prior to booking an appointment to discuss your child/young person’s needs and what you would like support with. Please use the contact page to get in touch with us to arrange this.
What happens at an assessment?

Before an initial assessment, a pre-assessment questionnaire will be sent to you to be completed and returned before the appointment. The information in this questionnaire will help to plan your child’s/young person’s assessment. Initial assessments are usually carried out at home although can be arranged in educational settings if required.

Assessments for younger children are carried out at your child’s pace through play and, sometimes, more structured motivating activities. For older children, time is spent building rapport and using the child’s/young person’s interests before more structured assessment tasks may be carried out. Towards the end of the assessment, a discussion will take place about the findings of the assessment, recommendations for the future and explanation and modelling of any advice or strategies that are recommended. For older children/young people, sometimes it is more appropriate to arrange a telephone/video conversation with the parent/carer after the appointment.

We are always happy to answer questions and take time to talk through any aspect of your child’s communication you are unsure about. After assessment is completed, the information gathered will be discussed with you along with options for any further support. There is no obligation to continue with speech and language therapy with us after your initial assessment.

My child is waiting for NHS Speech and Language Therapy/has seen an NHS Speech and Language Therapist

Seeking independent speech and language therapy should not affect your access to the NHS Speech and Language therapy service. With your consent, Independent Speech and Language Therapists will work with NHS Speech and Language therapists to make sure your child’s care is consistent and that each therapist has a clear role that does not overlap.

Details about the NHS Children’s Speech and Language Therapy Service can be found here:

Children’s Speech and Language Therapy | Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (cornwallft.nhs.uk)