Questions, answered.

Starting speech therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown. Here are honest, plain-language answers to the questions families ask us most. If yours is not here, we are always happy to talk it through.

Getting started

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No. You are welcome to reach out to us directly to schedule a consultation or evaluation, no referral required. We will make getting started as simple as possible.

What ages do you work with?

We support children from birth through age 18. Our approach is tailored to each stage, from playful early-intervention sessions for little ones to more conversational, goal-focused work with older kids.

Not sure your child is the right age or fit? Reach out and we will point you in the right direction, even if that means a referral elsewhere.

How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?

Every child develops on their own timeline, so it is normal to wonder. Some common signs that a checkup may help include: speech that is hard for others to understand, a smaller vocabulary than peers, frustration when trying to communicate, trouble following directions, or differences in social interaction and play.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, an evaluation can give you clarity and peace of mind, whether or not therapy ends up being the next step.

What happens at the first appointment?

The first visit is about getting to know your child and your family. We will talk through your concerns and goals, learn about your child's history, and spend time playing and interacting so we can see their communication in a relaxed, natural way.

You will leave with a clear sense of what we noticed and what we would recommend next. There is no pressure and no jargon, just a warm conversation and a plan you understand.

Do you offer services in Spanish?

Yes. Polaris is a bilingual practice. We offer full speech therapy in both English and Spanish, including bilingual evaluations, so your child's care reflects how they actually communicate at home.

Sessions

How long and how often are sessions?

Sessions are 45 minutes. Many families come weekly, though the right rhythm is always set together based on what your child needs and what works for your schedule.

Where do sessions take place?

We come to you. We see children in your home, where new skills actually stick, or at your child's center when their team approves it. We also offer live teletherapy for families anywhere in Texas. We will recommend the setting that helps your child do their best work.

Do you offer teletherapy?

Yes. Teletherapy can be a wonderful option for busy families, kids who do well at home, or households a bit farther away. Sessions are live and interactive, using games and activities designed for the screen.

Teletherapy is not the right fit for every child or every goal, so we will talk it through honestly and recommend what we believe will serve your child best.

Can I stay in the room with my child?

Absolutely. Caregivers are partners in our work, and many children settle in best when a familiar grown-up is nearby, especially at first. We will often invite you to join in so you can carry the same strategies into everyday life.

As your child grows more comfortable, some families find a little independence helps focus. We will always follow your child's cues and your comfort.

Progress and approach

How will we measure progress?

At the start, we set clear, meaningful goals together. From there, we track your child's progress at each session and review it with you regularly, using both everyday observations and structured check-ins.

Warm does not mean vague. You will always know what we are working toward, how your child is doing, and what comes next.

How can I help at home?

You are your child's most important communication partner, and the everyday moments at home are where real progress sticks. We will share simple, playful strategies you can weave into bath time, snack time, car rides, and bedtime stories.

There is no pressure to become a therapist. Small, consistent moments of connection go a long way, and we will coach you every step of the way.

Insurance and billing

Do you accept insurance?

Polaris is a private-pay practice, so we do not bill insurance directly. You pay us directly, and if you would like to seek reimbursement from your own insurer, we can provide a superbill (an itemized receipt) you can submit for possible out-of-network reimbursement.

For more on private pay, superbills, and billing, see our Insurance page

What are your rates?

Our fees depend on the type and length of service, such as an evaluation versus an ongoing therapy session. We believe in clear, upfront pricing with no surprises.

Reach out and we will walk you through current rates and any options that may help, so you can plan with confidence before you ever commit.

Do you offer evaluations?

Yes. A comprehensive evaluation is often the best first step. It gives us a full picture of your child's strengths and needs, and gives you a clear, written understanding of what is going on and what would help.

Whether or not therapy follows, you will come away with answers and a thoughtful set of recommendations.

We are here to help

Still have questions?

If your question is not on this list, just ask. We will give you a warm, honest answer and help you figure out the right next step for your child.