Eligibility

The clinic specializes in the treatment of children who demonstrate significant delays in speech and language skills but are otherwise similar to their peers in their cognitive, physical, and social progress. Children are considered for services without regard to family income or Masonic affiliation.  If you believe your child could benefit from our services, please see our referral process. 

Speech and Language Evaluation

An evaluation of a child's speech and language development includes a review of medical and school records, interviews with parents and prior therapists, and diagnostic sessions with the child. The purpose of the evaluation is to assess the speech and language skills of the child, determine if treatment is needed, and identify whether the child is an appropriate candidate for therapy at our clinic.

As with all services of the clinic, evaluations are provided free of charge. Parents interested in an evaluation should contact the clinic to discuss their child's circumstances with a speech/language pathologist.

Individual Speech Therapy

The cornerstone service of the Centers is direct, intensive treatment of children to improve their speech and language skills.

Based on the results of a speech and language evaluation, the Center's therapists develop a treatment plan for the child in consultation with their parents and other therapists. Therapy typically consists of individualized sessions between the child, their parents, and a speech/language pathologist. In the sessions, the therapist uses a variety of techniques to teach the child how to speak clearly and understand and use language appropriately. Parents observe treatment sessions and are coached in techniques and activities for helping their child between sessions.

Individual and Group Parent Education

The Center's third major service is to provide parents with the skills and techniques to help their child improve their speech and language. This is accomplished through individual coaching sessions and group classes for parents.

Parent education classes are composed of parents with children who face similar speech and language problems. Through lectures, discussion sessions, in-class activities, and videotaped exercises, parents learn strategies for encouraging appropriate speech and language development in their child.

Education is available to families of children who are in treatment at the Clinic as well as those in treatment programs elsewhere. Classes are offered throughout the year and are typically scheduled in the evenings.