Frequently Asked Questions

What happens in a therapy session?

We will make sure that your child can communicate with confidence.  We will spend lots of time playing with your child.  We want your child to think of us as a playmate.  When your child is relaxed, happy and having fun, learning happens effortlessly.  In each interaction with your child we are teaching your child a new specific skill.  This might not be obvious to you or your child either.  If you are not sure what we are doing, just ask. 

How long is each session?

Individual therapy sessions are usually 45 minutes.  This allows for 35 minutes of 1:1 therapy time and 10 minutes for your questions and explaining home practice activities.  If you would like a 60 minute session let us know.  We can easily schedule this. 

Do parents participate in the sessions?

Typically, yes.  As well as showing your child how to communicate with confidence, we will show you how to communicate confidently with your child, at the right level.  We will show you what to do.  We will explain why we want you to do it a particular way.  We will give you a chance to practice so that we can coach you and give you some tips.  Sometimes parents are unable to attend regular sessions.  That’s no problem.  You can provide a notebook in your child’s school bag.  We will write a note after each session so that you know what your child achieved and what you need to practice at home.

How often will my child need therapy?

Sessions are usually weekly.  You will also need to do daily practice at home.  Sometimes we recommend twice weekly sessions.  As your child makes progress we may reduce the frequency to fortnightly.  Talk to us about what is best for your child.

How long does it take?

We want your child to communicate with confidence.  This can take anything from a few weeks to a few years.  It all depends on what your child needs.  Of course it is helpful for you to know at the beginning how long you will need to commit to therapy for.  We will give you an indication of how long we think it will take.  Please remember that we don’t have a crystal ball.  Children are unique and respond to therapy in different ways and at different rates.  We can promise that you will see progress if you and your child attend regular therapy and do the practice we ask you to do at home. 

How often are reports provided?

A report is included as part of the initial assessment process (if you opted to pay for this at the time).  We can provide a report at any time during the therapy process and at discharge.  Please note that a fee will apply for this. 

Do you attend planning meetings?

Yes, of course.  Making sure that your child can communicate with confidence is a team effort.  If your child is receiving therapy from an early intervention service (e.g. Ministry of Education) they usually schedule planning meetings a couple of times a year.  It is in your child’s best interests if we contribute to these meetings and goal setting.  Please note that a fee will apply for attendance at planning meetings.

How do I cancel a session?

You can cancel a session by leaving a message, emailing or texting your therapist.  Please note that a cancellation fee applies when a session is cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment.  The cancellation fee is 50% of the session fee.     

What happens if I need to change the day or time of therapy sessions?

That’s no problem.  Just let us know what day and time suits.  We will do our best to see your child at a time that suits you.  However, your preferred time may not always be available. 

Will my child see the same therapist every time?

Usually, yes.  There are times when your therapist may change during the course of therapy due to things like changing day care or kindergarten schedules, swimming lessons, work commitments etc.  Don’t worry about this.  If it happens, we will make sure that the transition is as easy as a possible.

What are your Terms and Conditions?

Not Only Words Ltd accepts payment via EFTPOS, Cheque, Credit Card or Direct Credit.

1. Visa or Mastercard are the only Credit Cards accepted.
2. Payment for services at the clinic must be made at the time of the appointment.
3. Payment for community-based services must be made at the time of the appointment or by direct credit on the day of the session. 
4. Late payments will incur a late payment fee of 10% per month of the total outstanding balance.
5. Accounts not settled in full within 30 days of the due date will be referred to a debt collection agency.  Clients are liable for all costs incurred in the collection of any outstanding debts in their name.
6. For security reasons Not Only Words Ltd prefers not to accept cash.
7. Not Only Words reserves the right to review its pricing policy every 6 months.  Any price changes will be notified to customers in advance.
8. 50% of the session fee will be charged for cancellations, for any reason including illness, within 24 hours of the appointment.   

How much does it cost?

Prices vary depending on the length of the assessment and therapy sessions.  Please contact us for information on therapy fees.