Ali Battye Speech and Language Therapy

About Speech and Language Therapy Services

Speech and language therapy (SLT/SALT) helps children and young people who have difficulties with communication, speech sounds, language comprehension, or social interaction. A qualified speech and language therapist will assess your child's communication skills and develop a tailored therapy plan. Sessions may focus on areas such as expressive language, receptive language, speech sound production, fluency, or social communication skills.

Private speech and language therapists in Kent are typically registered with the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) and regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). You do not need a GP referral to access private speech and language therapy.

Before Your First Appointment

To get the most from an initial speech and language therapy assessment, it can help to prepare the following:

• Any previous reports from school, nursery, or other professionals (e.g. educational psychologist, paediatrician)
• Your child's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) if they have one
• Examples of words or sounds your child finds difficult
• Notes on how your child communicates at home compared to school or other settings
• Any concerns raised by teachers or other professionals

Initial assessments typically last between 60 and 90 minutes. The therapist will use a combination of standardised assessments and informal observation to understand your child's strengths and areas of need.

Helpful Resources

• What is Speech and Language Therapy? — our full guide for parents
• Speech Therapy Costs in the UK — what to expect to pay
• How to Apply for an EHCP in Kent — if your child needs funded support
• All Speech and Language Therapists in Kent

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see a private speech and language therapist?

No. You can contact a private speech and language therapist directly without a GP or NHS referral. However, if you want NHS-funded therapy, you will usually need a referral from your GP, health visitor, or school.

Can speech and language therapy be included in an EHCP?

Yes. If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan, speech and language therapy can be named as a provision in the plan. This means the local authority may fund the therapy. See our EHCP application guide for more information.

How many sessions will my child need?

This varies depending on your child's needs. After the initial assessment, the therapist will recommend a therapy plan which may involve weekly or fortnightly sessions over a number of weeks or months. Some children benefit from intensive blocks of therapy, while others need ongoing support.