My child receives speech therapy at school, but I feel like it is not enough. Can they do both?

Yes! Outpatient speech therapy is typically covered by insurance and far more comprehensive than school services. 

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What is the difference between getting speech at school and speech at Whole Heart?

At school, speech therapy is typically focused on how speech and language effect academic performance and is a more structured approach. At Whole Heart, we focus on functional communication in a play-based way, working closely with the family to achieve your goals.

 

Do you treat adults?

Yes! Our therapists at Whole Heart treat across the lifespan. 
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What kind of treatment do you offer for adults?

Speech and language therapy for adults can include anything from fluency, to word finding, to executive functioning to cognitive deficits. SLPs treat cognitive communication disorders caused by traumatic brain injury (TBI) or acquired cognitive deficits (such as dementia). 

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We've been recommended an AAC device. What does that mean?

AAC stands for Augmentative Alternative Communication. AAC includes low tech and high tech methods of augmenting and enhancing communication skills. A speech generating device (SGD) is a robust form of communication on a device such as an iPad with an app such as Proloquo2go or TouchChat. Our clinic works closely with AAC providers to obtain trial devices and get a permanent device through insurance following our comprehensive evaluation process. 

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My child just received an autism diagnosis. How can you help?

At Whole Heart Therapy, we are neurodiversity affirming clinicians and our clinic prides ourselves on being play-based and child-led, making therapy an enjoyable and successful experience for the whole family. We offer DIR-Floortime® therapy that is tailored to fit the interests and needs of your child. 

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Our doctor recommended ABA. Does Whole Heart provide ABA?

No, at Whole Heart Therapy, we utilize a Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework for development of speech and language skills. Evidence has shown that autistic people learn best when provided with this approach to intervention rather than behavior-based treatment (ABA).  

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What is Gestalt Language Processing (GLP)?

Gestalt Language Processing is a method of developing language. As opposed to Analytic Language Learning, GLP's learn language in "chunks" rather than single words. Research shows that most autistic children are Gestalt Language Processors, so our therapy is designed to meet those needs. For more info on GLP, please visit the Meaningful Speech link above.

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How do you treat picky/selective eating?

Our therapists are trained extensively in oral motor anatomy and physiology. We start by doing a comprehensive evaluation of the oral motor structures and observation of how the child manipulates/tolerates food in their mouth. We identify any areas of weakness or discoordination and target the mechanisms used for feeding first. Depending on the age of the child, we will communicate at their level regarding their thoughts and feelings towards foods and their sensory components that come with feeding. From there, our therapy approach is tailored to meet the needs of your family and achieve your child's goals for new foods they feel comfortable adding to their menu!