Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions
A few of the things families and adults ask most. If your question isn’t here, reach out and we can discuss it together.
What ages do you work with?
I work with infants, toddlers, and children who need support with speech and language development. I also work with adults seeking accent modification, and with adolescents and adults seeking communication and interview preparation.
What services do you offer?
I provide support for:
- Early communication and language development
- Speech sound disorders, including articulation and phonological disorders
- Childhood apraxia of speech
- Receptive and expressive language difficulties
- Social communication
- Fluency
- Parent coaching
- Accent modification for adults
- Communication and interview preparation for adolescents and adults
My baby isn’t talking yet. Is it too early to contact a speech-language pathologist?
No. Communication begins well before first words. Coos, babbling, sounds, gestures, imitation, play, and interaction all provide valuable information about early communication development. If you have questions about how your baby or toddler is communicating, you don’t have to wait for them to start talking before seeking guidance.
Do you provide services in English and Spanish?
Yes. Services are available in English and Spanish. For bilingual children, assessment and treatment consider the child’s exposure to and use of both languages. Speaking more than one language does not cause a speech or language disorder.
What is parent coaching?
Parent coaching focuses on practical strategies you can use during everyday routines, play, and interactions to support your child’s communication development. Strategies are individualized to your family and designed to be practical and easy to use at home.
What does the first step look like?
The first step is a brief consultation to discuss your concerns, goals, and the type of support you’re looking for. From there, I’ll recommend the most appropriate next step based on your individual needs.
Do you offer evaluations?
Yes. Comprehensive speech and language evaluations are available when clinically appropriate to better understand communication strengths and areas of need and to guide treatment recommendations.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions are typically 30, 45, or 60 minutes, depending on the service and individual needs and goals.
When are appointments available?
Standard appointment hours are Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM. Limited evening virtual appointments may be available for accent modification and adult communication services.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. Virtual services are available for children and adults throughout Florida when appropriate for the individual and the type of service provided.
Where are services provided?
In-person services are primarily provided at my Tampa office. Limited appointments may also be available in homes, preschools, daycares, and schools within select Tampa Bay areas, depending on location and scheduling availability. Virtual services are available throughout Florida when appropriate.
Do I need a referral to start services?
No referral is required. You can contact me directly to schedule a consultation and discuss your concerns and goals.
Do you accept insurance?
Empower Speech & Language is a private-pay practice and does not bill health insurance directly. Superbills are provided for pediatric therapy services and may be submitted to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Reimbursement is determined by your individual insurance plan.
Do you accept StepUp For Students?
Yes. Empower Speech & Language is a StepUp For Students provider. Please contact me to discuss available services, scheduling, and use of StepUp funds.
How much do services cost?
Fees vary depending on the service and session length. Pricing will be discussed during your initial consultation, so you know the cost before scheduling services.
How quickly will I see progress?
Progress varies depending on individual needs, goals, frequency of services, and opportunities for practice between sessions. Changes may emerge gradually as skills and strategies are practiced and carried over into everyday situations.
How do I get started?
Click “Schedule a Consultation” and complete the short form. I’ll follow up within one business day to discuss your needs and next steps.