Yes, Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Occupational Therapists (OT) can indeed assist if your child is having difficulty communicating.

A “late talker” is generally identified as a child who is 2 years old and is not combining 2 words together (e.g., “more milk”, “daddy, help”) and has a total vocabulary of less than 50 words. Many children who are late to talk catch up with their same-aged peers, while others continue to need support due to ongoing language difficulties. Parents working together with speech therapists can support their child and encourage their language development.

SLPs work with parents to support their “early communicators” by using strategies aimed at improving pre-verbal skills (i.e., communication-related skills that come before speaking) and encouraging functional vocabulary and combining words.

OTs can be a crucial part of early communication developmental, as they help view the child holistically and see how we can support regulation and sensory needs in a child that is not yet able to express themselves.

We love to work together to support your child in all areas of development!

Yes, Speech-Language Pathologists can play an important role in a child’s team when learning to read. We recognize the crucial link between language and literacy skills. Our literacy support services focus on developing reading, writing, and phonological awareness abilities in children.

Our therapists use evidence-based practices, such as phonics instruction, reading comprehension strategies, and multisensory approaches to help build a strong foundation for literacy development.

Private speech therapy services are not covered by Alberta Health Care (provincial health insurance); however, services provided by registered Speech-Language Pathologists and Occupational Therapists are typically covered by extended health insurance plans (e.g., Alberta Blue Cross, Sunlife, etc.). We recommend checking your specific plan benefits.

Depending on your child’s age, they may qualify for Speech & Language or OT supports with AHS (Alberta Health Services).

You can call 1-888-925-4044 to make a referral for your child with AHS.

Yes, at Ruby Therapy Services, our Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Psychologists collaborate closely with schools, daycares and preschools in Edmonton, St. Albert, and surrounding areas. We regularly visit daycares and preschools to conduct speech, language and OT screenings. We are always happy to connect with school-based teams to ensure goals align and discuss how we can best support the child and family.

Is your preschool, daycare or school seeking services? Learn more about having multidisciplinary therapy services or assessments at your school or childcare centre here.

Your child doesn't need a formal assessment before starting therapy if they already have a recent one we can reference. However, we do need to spend time getting to know your child and informally observe their skills before setting goals together. While there's always some form of assessment involved—whether formal or informal—it doesn't have to be a lengthy standardized evaluation to begin services.

If you do need a formal assessment and report, such as those needed to qualify for services in preschool or school supports, we are more than happy to provide that.

You do not need a doctor’s note or referral to begin services.

Some insurance providers may ask for a referral before they will reimburse for services.

At Ruby Therapy Services, we are passionate about using neurodiversity-affirming practices. Our therapists participate in ongoing learning from autistic advocates to help inform our practices and approaches.

For pre-verbal children, or those who would benefit from alternate methods of input (i.e., hearing and receptive language) and output (i.e., using language), our speech pathologists have access to a variety of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) systems and can help identify the best system to begin building on your child’s communication strengths.

SLP & OT collaboration can be an amazing place to start, as we can work with your family to establish goals that mean the most to you.

We do not direct-bill insurance providers. Given the rise in costs, reducing the administrative load will help us keep our service rates as competitive as possible.

Most extended health benefit plans have some coverage for Speech-Language Pathology (it may be listed as “Speech Therapy”), Occupational Therapy, and Psychology.

The first appointment is a comprehensive assessment where your therapist will get to know you or your child, ask relevant background questions, and word to develop a plan moving forward. Typically, the first session is more “talking-heavy” than future sessions, as we determine what you and your family are looking for, and how we can support those goals.

We also love to incorporate you or your child’s unique interests and hobbies into the session, and get to know what you love!

Absolutely, we prefer it! For children and teenagers, parent/caregiver involvement is essential and encouraged. For adults, family members are welcome to attend with the client's consent. We believe in family-centered care and provide coaching to support skill development and carryover at home, school, and in the community.