Speech-Language Evaluation Cost Breakdown
A speech-language evaluation includes both direct time with your child and the behind-the-scenes work needed for accurate results. Here’s a quick look at what makes up the cost:
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- Customized assessment tailored to your child
- Time spent before, during, and after testing
- A detailed report you can share with doctors, schools, or specialists
- Expert analysis and recommendations from a licensed SLP
- A caring, thorough approach to help your child succeed
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Initial Intake & Review of History
Time: 15-30 minutes
Included In: Evaluation Fee
We begin by reviewing completed intake forms, any previous reports, and medical/developmental history. This helps us plan an individualized assessment approach.
Direct Testing & Observation
Time: 60–120 minutes
Included In: Evaluation Fee
This is the in-person session where we assess speech sounds, understanding and use of language, oral motor function, hearing screening, and social communication. We may use both standardized tests and informal tools, depending on your child’s needs.
Scoring & Analysis
Time: 30-60 minutes
Included In: Evaluation Fee
After the session, the SLP scores the standardized tests, analyzes patterns of errors, and interprets the results. This helps determine if a disorder is present and which areas need support.
Report Writing
Time: 60–120 minutes
Included In: Evaluation Fee
We compile all the information into a comprehensive written report that includes test results, interpretations, diagnostic impressions (if applicable), and therapy recommendations.
Results Call / Parent Conference
Time: 15-30 minutes
Included In: Evaluation Fee
We meet with you (in person or virtually) to explain the results, answer questions, and discuss next steps for therapy, referrals, or home strategies. Recommendations for therapy (if warranted) including duration and frequency are based on evaluation results and Plan of Care developed in conjunction with the family.
Hearing Screening
Time: 10-20 minutes
Cost: Hearing screenings are billed to insurance, but there is no out-of-pocket cost to families no matter what funding source is used.
As part of every initial speech and language evaluation, we check your child’s hearing. This can be done in two ways: We may use recent hearing screening results that you provide from your child’s doctor, school, or another professional. If no recent results are available, a hearing screening will be completed before or during the evaluation. Sometimes, if an audiologist needs to complete it, the screening may be scheduled separately at another location such as our outpatient clinic in Greensboro.
“My family loves Janice Swilley and our little girl loves her. Your billing team was able to get a financial plan in place for us so we can continue with Janice's recommendation for therapy. We did not want to lose Janice!”
What Happens in a Speech Therapy Session
A speech therapy session is more than practice—it’s a personalized, structured process backed by professional expertise. Here’s what goes into each visit:
Preparation & Planning
The therapist reviews prior session notes, goals, and progress before each session.
Activities are selected and often customized (materials, visuals, games, apps, or handouts) to match your child’s needs and interests.
Therapy Time
Direct, one-on-one (or small group) intervention focused on specific goals—such as speech sound production, expressive/receptive language, social communication, fluency, or voice.
Sessions incorporate engaging activities that motivate the child while systematically teaching new skills.
Data is collected throughout to track progress.
Parent/Caregiver Collaboration
The therapist explains what was targeted and why.
Strategies, activities, or carry-over practice are shared so families can support progress at home.
Documentation
Following each session, the therapist documents goals addressed, strategies used, data collected, and recommendations for next time.
This documentation is required for progress monitoring, insurance billing, and future planning.
Behind the Scenes (often unseen but included in the cost)
Ongoing progress monitoring and goal adjustment.
Development of treatment plans.
Coordination with teachers, doctors, or other professionals.
Preparation of reports required for insurance or school services.
Why It Matters
When you pay for a speech therapy session, you’re covering:
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- The therapist’s direct time with your child.
- All preparation, planning, and documentation surrounding that session.
- The expertise of a highly trained, licensed professional with a master’s degree and/or clinical certification.
- Tools, materials, and ongoing professional development that ensure high-quality care.
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In short: A single therapy session represents not just the minutes in the room but a complete cycle of planning, teaching, tracking, and follow-up—every element designed to help your child make meaningful, lasting progress.
“My child has progressed so much since seeing Choua! He’s improved so much that even my skeptical mother has had to admit that Choua has been able to get him to do things that she did not think he would be able to do. I’m so grateful to Choua for helping my son. Having her has been life changing!”
Insurance Information:
Insurance: Our billing department will contact your insurance company to obtain and provide to you an estimate of the out of pocket cost after insurance processes. Insurance may cover part or all of the cost depending on your plan (we recommend you also verify coverage for CPT codes 92523 and 92507 and location of services i.e. if you will be seen at home, our office, school, or daycare).
Co-payments/Deductibles: Vary by insurance provider Click Here to see what insurance providers and plans we are partnered with!
