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SPEECH AND LANGUAGE PAHTOLOGY (SLP) ASSESSMENT
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE ASSESSMENT AS PART OF AUTISM ASSESSMENT
A speech and language pathology (SLP) assessment is a necessary component of the autism assessment process in BC for children under 6 years old. If your child has been seen by a pediatrician for concerns related to autism, we can offer both the speech and language assessment conducted by a registered speech and language pathologist (RSLP), more commonly referred to as a speech and language therapist, as well as the autism diagnostic assessment performed by a registered psychologist.
We will arrange the scheduling so that your child is first seen by our RSLP, followed by the psychologist. In cases where observations at daycare or preschool are required, our RSLP will coordinate a time to observe your child in a social setting.
A typical speech and language pathology assessment may involve evaluating the following components:
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Receptive language (Understanding)
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Expressive language (Expression)
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Pragmatic skills (Use of language)
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Prelinguistic language skills (Preverbal language)
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Non-verbal communication skills
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Conversational skills
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Speech sound production (Articulation), Voice, and Fluency
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Social skills and Play skills
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Feeding and swallowing
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Parents-child interaction
Speech and Language Pathology Assessment Process:
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Speech and language evaluation (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours).
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Parent interview (conducted as part of the in-person speech and language assessment).
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Home video reviewing (if needed).
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Tests scoring and preparation of report (3.5 to 4 hours).
The total fee for a speech and language pathology assessment is $800, calculated at an hourly rate of $160 for 5 hours. This fee also covers a 1.5-hour session with a final report. Additional fees will apply if the child requires extra assessment time.
Examples of Additional SLP Testing and Appointments (if required):
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Additional testing and evaluation appointments.
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Additional parent interview time (if needed and pre-scheduled).
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Feedback session of 15-30 minutes upon request
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Home, daycare, or preschool observation (1 to 2 hours + travelling time).
ASSESSMENT FEES
Our RSLP's hourly rate is $160. The total cost for a speech and language pathology assessment, which includes a 1.5-hour session and report preparation, is offered at $800, approximately 5 hours of direct and indirect services. Direct services are typically scheduled in-person or virtual appointments and indirect services include test scoring time, interpreting test results, and preparing an assessment report.
The assessment process varies for children depending on their behaviors and abilities. Older and more verbal children may require a longer session or additional testing, thus the cost may increase if they require a 2-hour session or an additional appointment instead of a 1.5-hour appointment. Assessing a child's social communication abilities is a key element in the autism assessment process, sometimes, a school observation is necessary.