About speech therapists
Speech and language therapists assess and treat difficulties with language, speech, voice, swallowing and communication in children and adults.
Getting mental health care in the United Kingdom
Psychological therapy for anxiety and depression is free through NHS Talking Therapies in England, which accepts self-referral or GP referral; more complex needs are referred by a GP to community mental health teams.
What does a speech therapist do?
A speech therapist assesses and treats difficulties with communication, language, speech, voice, fluency and swallowing. Day to day they might help a toddler say their first words, a child with stuttering or reading-related language problems, an adult recovering language after a stroke, a teacher with voice strain, or an older person with swallowing difficulties. They also guide families, teachers and carers.
What happens in the first session
The first session usually includes an interview about the concern and development or medical history, followed by observation and some standardised tests or play-based activities with children. The therapist will explain initial findings and propose a plan. Bring medical, hearing or school reports, recordings if the problem varies, and questions about goals, home practice and how progress is measured.