Yes, we offer a free 15-minute initial telephone call for all families. This is your chance to discuss any concerns about you or your child's speech, language, or communication development and learn how we can support you. There is no obligation to proceed following the call

The initial assessment is designed to develop a thorough understanding of your child's communication strengths, areas of need and the factors that may be affecting their communication.Every child is unique, so the assessment is tailored to their individual needs. Many assessments can be completed within a single appointment, while some children benefit from the assessment being completed over two or more appointments. This may be recommended to allow additional observation, build rapport, complete further assessment activities, or reduce fatigue and ensure the most accurate understanding of your child's communication profile.Assessments are friendly, supportive and child-centred, using a strengths-based approach to help your child feel comfortable, engaged and confident throughout.Assessment activities are tailored for your child's developmental age.Early YearsPlay-based assessment and observationParent interview and discussionObservation of interaction, play, attention and early communication skillsPrimary School AgeA combination of structured and play-based activitiesAssessment of speech, language, communication and learning-related skillsStandardised assessment where appropriateSecondary School AgeCollaborative assessment focusing on functional, academic and social communicationDiscussion of strengths, challenges and individual goalsStandardised assessment where appropriateFollowing the assessment, we will discuss the findings together, identify your child's communication strengths and areas of need, agree meaningful goals, and consider whether therapy or further support would be beneficial.A written report can be provided where agreed.Initial Assessment Appointments: £75 per appointmentAssessment appointments are charged at the standard session fee.Many assessments are completed within one appointment. Where additional assessment appointments are clinically indicated, each appointment is charged at the standard session fee. There is no separate assessment surcharge.Payment details will be provided when your appointment is confirmed.

Children & Young People – Therapy SessionsTherapy Session (45–60 minutes)£75 per session - Pay as you go optionIndividual speech and language therapy sessions are tailored to your child’s needs and focus on building meaningful communication skills in everyday life.Sessions are child-centred, engaging and adapted to your child’s age, interests and stage of development. Therapy may include play-based interaction, structured activities and practical strategies to support communication across home, education and social environments.Block Booking OptionA block of 4 sessions is available for £280.Block booking supports consistency and allows time to embed strategies, monitor progress and adapt support as your child’s needs evolve.

Parent and carer coaching sessions are £65 per session. These sessions are designed to support parents, carers and family members to feel confident using practical communication strategies in everyday life. For children and young people, we will explore how communication develops, why certain aspects may be difficult, and how to make small, meaningful changes that support progress at home, in education settings and in social situations. For adults, sessions focus on supporting communication following brain injury or stroke, including practical strategies to support conversation, understanding and participation in everyday life. Coaching is highly individualised, collaborative and non-judgemental, recognising the knowledge and experience you already have while providing evidence-based strategies that are realistic and easy to embed into daily routines. Sessions can take place in person, online or by telephone. These sessions do not involve direct therapy and instead provide dedicated time to focus on communication needs, questions and priorities.

We can provide additional letters, reports, or written summaries to support your child's communication needs. This may include letters for schools, GPs, or other professionals, clarification of assessment findings, or written guidance for decision-making and advocacy. This service includes professional time for preparation, review, clinical reasoning, and written correspondence. Fee: £40

Clinic appointments are available at I Am Zen Hub, 314 Antrim Road, Glengormley. I also offer home visits and appointments in schools, nurseries and community settings across Larne and surrounding areas. Online appointments may be suitable for some clients. Please enquire about options for your location.

If you’re unsure, an initial consultation or screening can help clarify concerns, provide reassurance, and offer practical strategies, even if therapy is not required.

Pre-school children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver throughout the session, unless we have agreed otherwise in advance. School-aged children do not require a parent to be present during sessions, although parental involvement and feedback remain an important part of therapy. At the first therapy session, I will confirm the main therapy objectives, which will have been agreed following the initial assessment. At the start of each session, I will: Review how any home practice or strategies have worked since the previous session Explain the aims of the session and how we will work towards them At the end of each session, we will: Discuss progress and outcomes Agree home practice or next steps Provide resources or guidance as needed Parents will receive regular feedback to support carryover of skills into everyday life.

If your child is not yet using words or is difficult to understand, it can be helpful to seek advice. Early support can make a meaningful difference, but it is never too late to support communication development.

If you’re unsure, a Free Initial Telephone Call is a good first step. We can briefly talk through your concerns and decide together what might be most helpful. Some families choose to go straight to an Introductory Session or Comprehensive Assessment, depending on what they feel they need.