The 15 minutes before you leave home
Bring your child's birth certificate or health card (for records), any previous reports or school complaints, and a short written list of your top three worries. Dress your child in comfortable play clothes. Don't rehearse anything — the therapist wants to see the everyday child, not a coached one.
Inside the session
Expect 45–60 minutes. For young children, most of it looks like play — the therapist is taking a language or sensory sample through it. You'll usually stay in the room for a first session. Expect direct questions: when did they say their first word? What can they do alone at home?
You will leave with a verbal impression the same day, and a short written summary within a week. Beware of anyone who prescribes a 20-session package without an assessment first.
Questions worth asking
What did you notice today? What should change at home this week? How will we know this is working — and by when? What does progress look like in 12 weeks? All listed therapists answer these as standard.