Frequently Asked Questions

A young boy with short brown hair, smiling, giving a thumbs-up, sitting at a desk in a classroom.

Who do you serve?

First Words Forward is designed for families who want guidance on how to support their child’s communication, learning, and development at home.

This includes families who:

  • Don’t currently have regular access to a speech-language pathologist

  • Are waiting for therapy services to begin and would like guidance on how to support their child’s communication at home in the meantime

  • Are navigating speech, language, literacy, or learning concerns

  • Would like to supplement their child’s current services with additional parent-focused guidance

  • Want reassurance and practical next steps for supporting their child’s communication, learning, and development at home

What kinds of concerns do you help with?

Families seek support for a wide range of concerns, including:

  • Speech and language development

  • Early communication and AAC use

  • Language-based literacy and learning (including support for dyslexia and related learning differences)

  • Homeschool structure, routines, and daily flow

  • Participation, behavior, and engagement at school, at home, and in the community

  • Understanding how communication impacts learning

Many families come with overlapping concerns. Sessions are designed to address communication and learning together, not in isolation.

Are consultations the same as or a substitute for speech and language therapy?

No. First Words Forward provides educational, parent-focused consultation, not speech-language therapy.

Sessions focus on helping you:

  • Understand your child’s needs

  • Identify practical strategies

  • Apply those strategies within daily routines

These services do not include diagnosis, treatment, or direct therapy. If your child would benefit from therapy or additional services, I will help guide you toward appropriate next steps.

Do you work with children who have a diagnosis (e.g., autism, apraxia, language delay)?

Yes. I work with families of children with a wide range of communication profiles.

Will my child be involved in sessions?

Sessions are designed for parents and caregivers, with a focus on helping you support your child’s communication and learning in everyday routines.

At times, your child may be present during sessions for observation, demonstration, or guided interaction.

In some cases, elements of direct support may be incorporated within a broader parent-focused plan, depending on your child’s needs.

How is this different from tutoring or therapy?

First Words Forward focuses on equipping parents with strategies that support communication and learning across daily life. It is not clinical therapy and not traditional tutoring. It is parent-guided, strategy-based support.

Do you accept insurance?

All services are private pay. Some families may be able to use HSA/FSA funds, but coverage is not guaranteed. Please check with your plan administrator.

How do sessions take place?

All sessions are held virtually on a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform.

What do I need for a session?

Please join sessions from a quiet space with a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone.

How do I get started?

Most families begin with an Initial Consultation. If you’re unsure whether this is the right fit, you can schedule a free Introductory Call.