
FAQS
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We are currently enrolled in Medicare, Cigna, Priority Health, Aetna, and BCBS of Michigan. While we verify your insurance, we do not guarantee the information is correct, therefore your co-pay is expected at the time of service. We accept payment in the form of cash, check, or credit card (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express). There is a private pay fee schedule. If you would like to attempt to be reimbursed by your insurance company for our services, we will assist you by providing invoices and other documentation, however, all services rendered by Leigh Harter Speech Services, PLLC will be billed directly to the client, or the guardian thereof, and any subsequent reimbursement is between you and your insurer.
Can I use a Health Savings Account Plan to pay for services?
Yes, in many cases, speech therapy services are considered an eligible service. I can provide any documentation and invoices necessary.
What are your rates for individual sessions?
Private Pay Rate:
$155
Insurance Rate:
$215
What is your rate for group sessions?
Private Pay Rate: $175/session
Insurance Rate: $75/session, in addition to individual session
Do parents/caregivers need to stay during the treatment sessions?
Generally speaking, it is most beneficial for parents to stay during the session to observe, take part, and ask questions. Participation in the session allows for better continuity and carry-over at home.
When should I be concerned about my child's speech or language development?
While it is true children show some variation in when they achieve early language milestones, it also is true that a skilled speech-language pathologist can usually identify children who are more at risk for persistent delays, or who are showing signs of more deviant speech language development (sometimes associated with other developmental disorders, such as autism). The earlier these children are identified, the sooner they can take advantage of intensive early intervention programs.
What do I need to bring with me/know for my initial appointment?
You will need a physician script, if available, a driver's license, new client paperwork, and insurance card(s). If you have a list of medications (prescription and over-the-counter) you are currently taking or medical procedures you have had, you may bring them and we will make a copy for your chart. You will also need to know the name of your referring and primary care doctors, as well as any tests/results (MRI, X-ray, etc.) you have had related to your injury.
My loved one has difficulty communicating in social settings. Should I enroll him/her in a social group?
Possibly. Some clients are in need of individual therapy to establish readiness skills for group interaction, e.g. basic receptive/expressive language competence, turn-taking, and ability to process language efficiently in order to maintain conversational topics. Others may be placed in appropriate group therapy settings. In any event, SPG performs consultations before making a recommendation for or against group therapy.
Do you provide Teletherapy?
It depends. While technology can seem intimidating for many, teletherapy is effective for the treatment of many speech-related issues and it is extremely efficient. By eliminating travel time or weather-related disruption, you can maximize results. Teletherapy also makes speech therapy accessible to everyone, no matter where they (both the client and the therapist) live. Often local clients choose a mix of online and in-person services simply because it is more convenient and both forms of services have benefits.
Will I be provided a home exercise program?
Yes, often. This is an important aspect of an individual's rehabilitation program in order to maintain strength and increase therapeutic gains between sessions. Further, it allows clients an opportunity to implement strategies independently and problem-solve issues in functional settings.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Yes. It is also helpful to have any medical records available at the time of the initial evaluation. You can bring the script for the initial evaluation or mail it prior to the appointment.
Where does the therapy session take place?
We treat clients at our office at 3552 Avon St., Hartland, MI, 48353. We use an online platform (tele-therapy) and also travel to client's homes or in the community within a 10-15 mile radius of our office. An travel fee of $20/visit will be included for in-home visits.
What is your approach to working with children?
We look at each child as an individual, focusing on their strengths and abilities so that we can provide individualized treatment. You have to use what they give you and that changes constantly. We like to make therapy "fun" and have the child engage in what grabs their attention to expand their language on. We believe that keeping children engaged and interested in therapy will often result in quicker progress and carryover. We also like to involve parents, whether it be during the session or providing feedback and information following the session, to encourage speech and language growth at home.