FAQs

Common questions whānau ask

Frequently asked questions

Will speech therapy affect my child's self-esteem?

Struggling to communicate can impact a child’s confidence. Most children are aware when their talking sounds “different”. Good quality speech therapy supports self-esteem by setting achievable goals and celebrating progress. Children usually feel proud of their achievements, and parents often notice greater confidence when talking with others and making friends.

Do I need a referral?

No. You don’t need a referral to access private speech-language therapy — anyone can contact us directly.

What happens in the first session?

Sessions are typically 45 minutes long. Your child’s first session usually begins with some relaxed play so they can get comfortable with the therapist while we gather background information.

The assessment may include:

Observing and interacting with your child
Informal or play-based assessment activity
Formal or structured testing, if needed

By the end of the first session, you’ll usually receive a clear explanation of your child’s communication strengths and needs. For more complex concerns, two or more sessions may be needed before completing the written report and therapy plan.

Please give your child a snack and drink beforehand. They’re welcome to bring a favourite toy or book. Our clinic has a welcoming reception area with books, toys, kitchen, and bathroom facilities. You’re encouraged to arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time.

What age is best for speech therapy?

Early support makes a big difference. Research shows that children benefit most from early intervention, which can also prevent future difficulties.

For example, developing speech-sound and listening skills in preschool can support literacy and attention at school. Left unaddressed, early communication challenges may affect confidence, friendships, and classroom participation. If you’re unsure, an assessment is a great first step — it helps you understand your child’s strengths and identify any areas where therapy could help.

My child already sees a speech-language therapist through the public system. Should we ‘go private’ too?

Services such as the Ministry of Education, CCS, and Child Development Services offer limited government-funded speech therapy. Some families choose to add private sessions for:

More frequent or intensive therapy
Flexibility with session times and locations
Access to a therapist or approach that best suits their child

Using private speech therapy will not affect your eligibility for public services.

What does speech therapy cost?

Please ask us about funding options available for children with a diagnosed disability. In New Zealand, health insurance generally does not cover speech-language therapy. You can [View fees] to view Small Talk Therapy pricing. View fees

How can I help my child’s speech at home?

Check hearing: Even mild hearing changes can affect speech.
Read together daily: Books build vocabulary and sentence understanding.
Talk during everyday routines: Use short, repetitive phrases like “ready, set, go!” or “wash, wash hands!”
Model simple language: Name objects and actions — splash, pour, up, down.
Respond to all communication attempts: Smile, comment, and expand naturally on what your child says.
Minimise passive screen time: Interaction with you teaches more than any TV show ever could.

Small, consistent interactions make a big difference in developing your child’s communication skills.

How long will my child need speech therapy for?

The length of therapy varies depending on your child’s needs, goals and response to intervention. Some children benefit from just a couple of sessions, others from a block of sessions (e.g. 6-8 sessions) and other from long-term therapy. We review progress regularly.