School Speech or Private Speech? Why Both Can Be Better

By: Maggie Wade, CCC-SLP

If your child is already receiving speech therapy at school, you might wonder “would private therapy really add anything extra?” As a speech-language pathologist, I’ve had the privilege of seeing how powerful it can be when school-based and private therapy work together. Instead of overlapping, the two approaches often complement one another, giving kids more opportunities to practice, more support, and often quicker progress towards their goals.

What Makes Private Speech Therapy Different?

Here are a few unique benefits private therapy can offer:

• One-on-one attention: Sessions are tailored just for your child. We can adapt activities to their pace, strengths, and learning style.
• A quieter setting: Without the buzz of a classroom, kids can focus more easily and learn new skills without distractions.
• Flexible challenge levels: We can adjust demands as your child grows, starting with easier practice and gradually adding more complexity or group interaction when ready.
• Parent involvement: You’re always in the loop. We share updates, invite you into sessions when helpful, and give you strategies to use at home.
• Teamwork with schools: With your permission, we connect with your child school therapist so both environments are working toward the same goal.

Why Consider Both?

School speech therapy is incredibly valuable. It ensures kids get support during their day where communication challenges often happen. Private therapy adds another layer which is personalized, flexible, and family-focused. Together, they can reinforce one another, giving your child the best chance to succeed. At the end of the day, the decision is yours as a family. Some children thrive with just school-based services while others benefit from the extra boost private therapy provides.

Looking for private speech therapists who take insurance in Charlotte, NC? Our team of licensed Speech-Language Pathologists offers individualized, one-on-one support for children working on articulation, language development, social communication, and more. Whether you’re looking to supplement school-based services or explore private options, we’re here to help your child thrive. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation, using our easy self-scheduling tool!