Initial consultations function as short (10-20 minutes) screening sessions conducted over the phone that allow your therapist to gain an initial impression of your child’s speech skills and whether they are developmentally appropriate. Next steps include completing intake paperwork and scheduling an initial evaluation.

Because The Garden offers private pay services, you can self-refer your child or receive a doctor’s referral from your pediatrician. Our goal during an evaluation is to gain a comprehensive picture of your concerns and goals, as well as an accurate picture of your child’s skills. This session typically lasts between 1-1.5 hours and consists of three main parts:

Clinical observation: We like to begin by getting to know your child and earn their trust through play & conversation. Speech therapy should be fun! This is also an opportunity for me to informally observe their speech during conversation.

Formal assessment: We will administer various assessments to gain specific and comprehensive information about the nature of your child’s needs, which then inform their treatment plan.

Caregiver interview: You know your child best, and we place high value on your input. We will gather information about their developmental and medical history, your concerns, and your goals. This may be completed digitally and before the in-person evaluation.

Children thrive with structure, but our sessions are anything but boring! My goal is for your child to know what to expect when they come into the room, and experience an enriching environment while engaging in challenging and fun activities to target their goals. Depending on your child’s age and goals, activities can range from structured to open-ended and will take up the bulk of our session.

Arrive

Review previous week’s home practice and probe for progress

Target goals in direct intervention

Discuss new home practice as a team

Dismissed!

All services are paid for privately by our clients via credit card, check, or HSA/FSA card.

Payment is required at the time of service. Superbills are available after each session, which can be submitted to your insurance for potential out-of-network benefits.

Because our services are private pay, we are able to deliver the best care possible — we are not limited by the parameters insurance places on frequency, type, and duration of services.

Evaluation 300.00

Intervention 70.00/30-minutes

We are typically open for sessions Monday through Thursday from morning to early afternoon. We generally follow the Knox County Schools schedule, so we're closed for major breaks like spring break, fall break, Christmas break, and other major holidays.

[A note from Emily, Owner and SLP:

I'm a mom, and my family - especially caring for my son - is my top priority. Because of that, there may be rare scheduling limitations due to childcare closures, illness, or other family needs.

Consistent attendance is essential for your child’s progress! I understand that life happens — kids get sick, emergencies pop up, and schedules can be unpredictable. That said, I ask families to aim for a minimum attendance rate of 85%, which is checked twice a year.

Here are the basics:

• Cancellations: If you need to cancel, please try to let me know at least 24 hours in advance via text, email, or phone.

• Make-Up Sessions: I’m happy to work with you to reschedule or even do a teletherapy session if needed (and you live in TN). If we make up the session, it won’t count against your attendance rate!

• No-Shows & Fees: Missed sessions without notice (no-shows) will be billed at the regular session rate, and frequent no-shows may result in termination of services.

• Holidays & Weather Closures: I follow the Knox County Schools calendar for breaks, holidays, and weather-related closures. I’ll always do my best to remind you in advance of any routine closures!