The Benefits of Working with a Speech Therapy Assistant for Your Child’s Development

When it comes to improving your child’s speech and language development, you want the best care possible — even while you’re on the waiting list.

Speech therapy assistants, also known as Communication Disorders Assistants (CDAs) or Language Stimulation Agents, can offer valuable support while working under the supervision of licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs). There are several compelling reasons to consider working with these professionals. This blog outlines three major advantages: reduced costs, a collaborative team approach, and shorter wait times for services.

Reduced Costs

One of the biggest benefits of opting for a speech therapy assistant is the reduced cost of services. An assistant typically charge about 25% less than licensed SLPs because of differences in their level of training. While they do not hold a master’s degree like an SLP, they all have a unique background of experiences working with children and provide direct interventions for your child, offering an effective, yet more affordable, solution.

For families managing tight budgets, this cost reduction can make a significant difference in the accessibility of regular speech therapy sessions. Additionally, while not all private healthcare plans cover assistant services, more insurance providers are beginning to recognize the value of their work. It is always worth checking with your plan to explore the possibility of coverage.

Collaborative Team Approach

Another key advantage of working with a speech therapy assistant is the collaborative nature of their work with a licensed SLP. With both professionals involved in your child’s care, you get the benefit of two perspectives. The SLP conducts the initial assessment, develops the treatment plan, and oversees progress, while the assistant works closely with your child to implement the plan through weekly or bi-weekly sessions.

Having two professionals on the case means you get the best of both worlds—creativity and different approaches to intervention. Regular communication between the assistant and SLP ensures that your child’s therapy plan is always being reviewed and adjusted to fit their unique needs. This team dynamic can improve the quality of care, as well as rapport building between your child and their therapist.

Reduced Wait Times

One of the most frustrating aspects of accessing speech therapy, particularly in the public healthcare system, is the long wait times. In many provinces like Ontario and Quebec, the wait for a licensed SLP can stretch over a year. By choosing an assistant, you can bypass this delay and begin interventions immediately.

Although assistants cannot modify treatment plans, they are skilled at providing the same high-quality interventions your child would receive from an SLP. This means your child can begin therapy sooner, receiving the support they need without waiting for a spot to open with an SLP. Furthermore, should you wish to remain on an SLP waiting list, opting for an assistant often provides priority placement once a spot becomes available.

Working with a speech therapy assistant offers significant advantages for families seeking timely, affordable, and effective speech interventions. Whether you’re trying to manage costs, want a more collaborative approach to care, or are eager to avoid long wait times, speech therapy assistants can be a great option to help your child reach their communication goals.

For more information about speech and language services for kids, contact us.