FAQs

  • Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) have studied and trained to a degree level (undergraduate and/or post graduate). Speech and Language Therapists have received highly specialist training across all aspects of communication and language development, and are qualified to administer assessments and specialist and targeted therapy interventions to support children and young people with their speech, language and communication needs. Speech and Language Therapists are able to offer you specialist clinical advice and evidence-based therapy intervention.

  • The 15-minute phone call is a chance for us to chat through your concerns and explore your child’s current needs and communication profile.

  • No, you can refer your child to Sophie Hayward | The Speech Studio yourself.

    ‍Email or call for a free 15-minute initial telephone consultation.

    Email: sophie@thespeech.studio

    Phone:

  • Assessments and therapy sessions take place in client homes and education settings.

  • Please see the Services and Fees.

  • Payment is taken via card or electronic bank transfer. We require pre-payment of all assessment and therapy sessions.

  • Therapy input will depend on your child/young person’s individual communication needs, their communication difficulties and their response to therapy.

    We offer ongoing and regular therapy reviews of progress and you can withdraw from therapy at any time.

    Therapy sessions typically last 45 minutes. The majority of the allocated session time is spent carrying out direct therapy input, with some time at the end of the session to discuss therapy input, progress and ideas and activities to focus on between sessions.

  • An independent therapist may be able to see your child/young person sooner and more frequently than an NHS therapist. They also have more flexibility in the therapy they can offer.

  • There is no difference in the training or qualifications of an independent therapist and an NHS therapist. All clinicians hold the same qualifications and are bound by the same clinical standards, guidelines and governing bodies.

    However, the advantages of private therapy include reduced waiting times and more consistent access to appointments scheduled at times and locations that are convenient for you.

  • Yes, but please ensure you let us and your NHS therapist know of each other’s involvement so that we can work collaboratively.

  • Yes. We are able to see children in schools for assessments, individual and group therapy sessions. We can provide packages of intervention specific to your requirements. It is important that the NHS services are aware of our independent involvement.

  • ‍All Speech and Language Therapists must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The HCPC is a regulatory body that ensures professionals meet required national standards of training, competence, and conduct. You can view the public register here: www.hcpc-uk.org/check-the-register/ and type in the name of your therapist.

    Many Speech and Language Therapists are also members of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). Members of the RCSLT follow recognised professional and ethical standards to ensure safe and effective practice. A list of members can be found on their website: www.rcslt.org

    The Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP) only includes therapists who are HCPC registered and also members of the RCSLT; providing an additional layer of reassurance for families. For more information, please visit their website: www.asltip.com

    At Sophie Hayward | The Speech Studio we are registered with:

    • HCPC: Health and Care Professions Council

    • RCSLT: The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists

    • ASLTIP: Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice