Getting Started

Scheduling a Visit:

To schedule an appointment with SPEAKS Services, you have several convenient options. You can call us directly at 708-497-9641 to speak with a team member, or email us at information@speakss.com with your inquiry. You can also visit our website and click the “Get Started” link at the top of the page. Simply fill out the brief form, and a member of our team will reach out to you to set up your appointment.

Intake Process: 

At SPEAKS Services, our intake process is designed to help us fully understand you or your child’s needs, strengths, and goals so we can provide the most effective support possible.

The process begins with scheduling an evaluation, which can be done by phone, email, or through our online “Get Started” form.

Once scheduled, you’ll receive surveys and questionnaires to complete before the appointment. These forms give us valuable insight into current abilities, concerns, and areas where support may be needed.

Next, you’ll attend the comprehensive evaluation, where we assess skills, observe functional abilities, and gather additional information. Afterward, we will review the evaluation results with you, explain our findings, and answer any questions you may have.

If therapy is appropriate and desired, we will then help you schedule ongoing therapy services and discuss recommended frequency, goals, and next steps.

Billing and Insurance

At this time, SPEAKS Services is a private pay practice, meaning we do not bill insurance directly. Payment is due at the time of service. However, we understand that financial circumstances vary, and we are committed to making services as accessible as possible. For patients with documented financial need, we offer a sliding scale option to help reduce the cost of services. If you have questions about rates, payment options, or sliding scale eligibility, we are happy to assist.

Preparing for the Evaluation: 

To help us get the most accurate and complete understanding of your or your child’s needs, please bring a few items to your evaluation. We encourage you to bring foods that you or your child commonly eats, as this helps us observe real mealtime behaviors and oral motor function. You’re also welcome to bring any questions you may have, so we can address all of your concerns during the appointment. If you have referrals, previous evaluations, test results, or any other information that may be helpful, please bring those as well. These materials allow us to tailor the evaluation and provide the best possible support.

Therapy

Our therapy approach is play-based and child-led, allowing us to support development in a way that feels natural, engaging, and meaningful for each child. We value strong partnerships with caregivers and families, and we actively collaborate to make sure therapy aligns with daily routines, goals, and the unique needs of every patient.

For individuals receiving myofunctional therapy, we offer structured, targeted sessions designed specifically for each person. Treatment plans are tailored to address their unique oral motor patterns and functional goals, ensuring effective and individualized care.

Referrals

At SPEAKS Services, our goal is to ensure that every patient receives the most comprehensive and appropriate care. During the evaluation or throughout therapy, we may identify areas that would benefit from additional support beyond our scope. When this happens, we will provide a referral to another professional who can best address those needs.

These referrals may include specialists such as ENTs, pediatricians, dentists or orthodontists, feeding specialists, occupational therapists, mental health providers, or other relevant professionals. We will clearly explain why the referral is recommended and help guide you through the next steps, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout the process.

Our priority is always your or your child’s overall well-being, and we believe that collaboration across disciplines leads to the best outcomes.