Navigating Speech Therapy in Calgary to Find a ‘Speech Therapist Near Me’
I have conversations with families every day about the challenges they face accessing speech therapy services in Calgary. It can be overwhelming to find and navigate the various resources and options available. We want to make it as easy as possible for families to access the support they need for their child's communication development. That's why we are here to guide you through the various options available, including both public and private options, so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for your child and your family. Keep reading to explore some of the ways families can find a "speech therapist near me" in Calgary. (Please note that this list is not comprehensive. Other resources available to families include PUF funding and funding through Jordan's Principle).
Alberta Health Services (AHS)
One place that many families start is with their family doctor through Alberta Health Services (AHS). AHS offers a range of speech therapy services, including assessment, treatment, and support for individuals of all ages with communication and/or swallowing/feeding disorders. These services can be accessed through SELF-REFERRAL (which means no referral from your doctor is required!) and are provided at no cost to the individual.
Calgary Board of Education
Another resource for school aged children is through the Calgary Board of Education. The board offers some speech and language programs for students with communication disorders. These programs are available to students in kindergarten to grade 12 and are provided at no cost to the family. It is important to note that only certain diagnoses will qualify for these services.
Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD)
Another option is the Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) program. This program provides funding for families who have a child with a disability, including speech and language disorders. The funding can be used for a variety of services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and psychological services. Funding is also available for developmental aides and respite. To be eligible for FSCD funding, a child must have a disability that is likely to continue for at least one year and that significantly affects their ability to function in daily life. Families can apply for funding through the FSCD program, and a case manager will work with the family to determine the services and supports that are needed. However, funding is not guaranteed and the services are provided based on the child's needs and the availability of resources. At Rocky View Speech Therapy, we have Speech-Language Pathologists who are able to work with Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) contracts to provide services and support for families.
Private Speech Therapy in Calgary
The last option, and the one we provide here at Rocky View Speech Therapy, is private speech therapy. One of the main benefits of private therapy is the ability to receive personalized, one-on-one attention from a therapist who is dedicated to helping your child. In a private setting, the therapist will create a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your child's specific needs and goals. With private therapy we offer flexible scheduling options, allowing for appointments to be scheduled at a time that is convenient for you and your family. Additionally, sessions happen in the comfort of your own home so there is no need to pack everyone into the car. Private therapy can be a great option for families who are looking for the highest quality, personalized, professional speech therapy in the comfort of their own home or via teletherapy.
There are many resources and options available for speech therapy in Calgary. It can be overwhelming to navigate and understand what is best for your child and family. At Rocky View Speech Therapy, we want to make it as easy as possible for families to access the support they need for their child's communication development. We are here to guide you through the various options available, including public options such as Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the Calgary Board of Education, as well as the Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) program and private therapy options. With our personalized, one-on-one attention and customized treatment plans, we believe that private therapy can be a great option for families looking for high quality, professional speech therapy in the comfort of their own home or via teletherapy. We encourage you to reach out to us to learn more about how we can help your child unlock their communication potential.