Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

  • We are a small, boutique-style speech therapy practice that values quality over quantity. Our focus is on building strong, trusting relationships with each client and family. This allows us to provide highly personalized, evidence-based care in a warm and welcoming environment. Sessions are designed to be engaging, supportive, and tailored to the individual’s needs. We also incorporate creative and functional strategies that go beyond traditional therapy models, and we’re always looking for innovative ways to support growth—like incorporating certified therapy dogs and future enrichment offerings currently in development.

  • We provide speech and language therapy services for clients of all ages—from toddlers to adults. Whether your child is just starting to speak or you’re seeking support for voice or communication challenges later in life, we’re here to help.

  • Availability varies based on current caseload, scheduling needs, and funding requirements.

    At times, we may have openings for private pay or commercial insurance services. For Medicaid-funded services, we maintain a limited number of therapy spots due to program requirements, and a waitlist may be necessary depending on current availability.

    Because therapy openings occur as a result of individual progress and attendance patterns, we are unable to estimate a specific wait time. When services are full, families are welcome to join the waitlist and will be contacted as soon as an appropriate opening becomes available.

    We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to serve families as openings become available.

  • We specialize in:

    • Articulation & Phonological Disorders

    • Childhood Apraxia of Speech

    • Language Delays and Disorders

    • Voice Disorders

    • Fluency (Stuttering)

    • Aphasia

    • Dysphagia

    • And more!

  • Yes, we work with some children who have Autism, particularly those who are verbal and able to participate in structured, play-based therapy. Our practice is best suited for clients with mild to moderate needs. If we feel a child would benefit more from a provider with specialized training in behavioral or complex developmental support, we’re happy to provide referral resources.

Evaluations and Therapy

  • Yes. All clients begin with a comprehensive evaluation to determine areas of strength and need. This helps us develop a tailored treatment plan.

    • Have your doctor fax a referral to (855) 461-3579.

    • Complete all of the intake documents that will be sent to your email.

    • Families are added to our waiting list after the intake forms have been completed.

      In most cases, we schedule evaluation appointments when a consistent weekly therapy slot is expected to be available. This allows families to begin therapy soon after the evaluation if services are recommended, rather than completing an evaluation and then waiting several months to start.

      If a family would like an evaluation as soon as possible to determine whether speech therapy is needed, we can often schedule an evaluation based on current availability. Please note that therapy scheduling in these cases will still depend on when an appropriate ongoing therapy slot becomes available.

      This process helps ensure a smooth transition from evaluation to treatment and allows us to provide timely, consistent care.

  • Therapy is highly individualized. Some clients may see progress in a few months, while others benefit from ongoing support. We monitor goals closely and adjust the plan as needed.

  • Absolutely! Family involvement is essential to progress. We offer regular updates, home practice ideas, and parent coaching to help you support your child every step of the way.

Appointments and Scheduling

  • You can call us, email us, or use our online contact form to schedule an evaluation or session. We’ll walk you through the process step-by-step.

  • Yes! We provide both in-person and teletherapy sessions depending on your needs and location. We’ll help determine what works best for your family.

  • We ask that you notify us at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a cancellation fee. For vacation or extended absences, please notify us at least one week ahead if possible.

Billing and Insurance

  • Yes, we are proud to accept Alabama Medicaid for children under the age of 19. However, due to limited availability, we may not always have open spots for Medicaid-funded services.
    We encourage families to contact us directly to check current availability. In the meantime, we also offer affordable parent coaching sessions and private pay options for those seeking immediate support.

  • Yes. We current accept the following insurance plans:

    • Medicare

    • Alabama Medicaid

    • Blue Cross Blue Shield

    • TRICARE East - Non-network

    • TRICARE for Life - Non-network

    • United Healthcare - Non-network

    • Humana - Non-network

      We also accept private pay. In the event that we do not accept your insurance plan and you wish to use your insurance benefits, we gladly offer to provide a superbill after services are rendered that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider to see if they accept superbills. Reimbursement is not guaranteed.

  • We appreciate all kinds of referrals and truly value the confidence people show in choosing our practice. At this time, Encouraging Words Speech Therapy Services does not participate with Workers’ Compensation insurance.
    We’ve chosen to remain independent from this system so we can spend more time doing what matters most—helping our clients reach their goals through personalized, one-on-one care.
    All services are self-pay at the time of the appointment.

  • Yes. There are many benefits for electing private pay instead of going through your insurance. Click here for more information.

  • We accept all major credit cards, HSA/FSA cards, cash, and check.

Questions about Zumbini®

  • Zumbini® is a group music and movement program created by the makers of the popular Zumba® Fitness program and Baby First. It is designed to be a bonding experience for young children and their caregivers. Classes focus on joyful play, bonding, and shared experiences through music, dance, and simple instruments.

  • No. Zumbini® is not a form of speech therapy, occupational therapy, or any other medical or therapeutic service. It is a recreational, enrichment-based program focused on fun and connection.

  • Zumbini® is not a therapy program and is not specifically designed as a special needs service. Classes are structured for typically developing children; however, children of all skill levels are welcome to participate alongside their caregivers.

  • Yes! Zumbini® is designed for caregivers and children to participate together. Adult involvement is a key part of the experience.