Evaluations for Speech, Voice, and Language

We are dedicated to understanding your child’s unique communication needs. Our comprehensive evaluations provide valuable insights into their strengths and challenges, guiding us in developing personalized therapy plans that foster success.

Our evaluation process begins with a collaborative conversation with parents and caregivers. We take the time to gather essential background information, including developmental and medical history, academic and social experiences, strengths, challenges, and communication preferences. Using a variety of evidence-based assessment tools, we gain a well-rounded understanding of your child’s speech and language abilities. Our evaluations may include parent and caregiver input, as your observations are invaluable in shaping our understanding; informal assessment and observation, which allow us to assess communication skills in natural settings; and standardized testing when appropriate, providing measurable data to identify specific areas of need.

Once the evaluation is complete, we will review the findings in a clear and supportive manner, provide recommendations tailored to your child’s unique needs, and develop an individualized therapy plan if services are recommended. Our therapy plans are designed to be functional, achievable, and meaningful to support your child’s growth.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) evaluations

We believe that every child deserves a voice. Our Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) evaluations are designed to identify the most effective communication tools for individuals with complex communication needs. Whether your child is minimally verbal, nonverbal, or has difficulty expressing their thoughts effectively, our comprehensive assessment will determine the best AAC solutions to support their communication.

Our evaluation begins with a thorough conversation with parents and caregivers to gather information about the child’s medical and developmental history, current communication abilities, daily communication needs, and personal preferences. We assess a variety of factors, including expressive and receptive language skills, motor abilities, cognitive considerations, and sensory preferences, to ensure the recommended AAC system is tailored to your child’s strengths and needs.

During the assessment, we explore different AAC options, including low-tech (e.g., picture exchange, communication boards) and high-tech (e.g., speech-generating devices, tablet-based apps) systems. We provide hands-on trials with various AAC tools to determine the most functional and user-friendly system for your child. Additionally, we collaborate with families, educators, and other professionals to ensure seamless integration of AAC into daily routines.

Following the evaluation, we review the results, provide guidance on device selection (if applicable), and develop an individualized AAC implementation plan. If an AAC device is recommended, we assist families with the funding and acquisition process, as well as offer training and ongoing support to ensure successful communication development. At Blarney Therapy Center, we are committed to empowering children with the tools they need to communicate with confidence and independence.

Evaluations for Feeding and Swallowing

We understand that feeding and swallowing challenges can impact a child’s health, nutrition, and overall well-being. Our comprehensive evaluations are designed to identify the underlying causes of feeding difficulties and develop tailored strategies to support safe and effective eating experiences.

Our evaluation process begins with a detailed conversation with parents and caregivers to gather essential background information, including medical and developmental history, feeding experiences, mealtime behaviors, food preferences, and any concerns related to chewing, swallowing, or sensory aversions. Understanding the child’s unique needs allows us to take a holistic approach to assessment and intervention.

Using a combination of evidence-based tools, we assess feeding and swallowing skills in a comfortable and supportive environment. Evaluations may include parent and caregiver input, as mealtime observations and history provide valuable insights; clinical observation of oral-motor skills, posture, and coordination during eating and drinking; and standardized assessments when appropriate to further examine feeding mechanics, sensory responses, and swallowing function. If needed, we may recommend a referral for an instrumental swallow study for a more in-depth analysis.

Following the evaluation, we will provide families with a clear understanding of the findings, offer recommendations for home strategies, and, if therapy is warranted, create a personalized treatment plan. Our therapy approach focuses on improving oral-motor skills, increasing food acceptance, enhancing safety during meals, and making mealtimes more enjoyable for the whole family.