What is a speech-language evaluation?
A speech-language evaluation is the measurement of a person’s communication skills. It is done to gain more understanding of a person’s communication skills and needs. This evaluation is done by a licensed speech-language pathologist.
The speech-language pathologist will review relevant case history information with the client and/or anyone who accompanies them to their evaluation. The case history form will be provided to the client for completion prior to the evaluation. Questions included in the case history form (if relevant) include:
- Pregnancy and birth history
- Acquisition of developmental milestones
- Medical history
- Family and biographical information (e.g. who lives with the client, is there family history of speech, language or hearing disorders, etc.)
- Current and previous speech-language skills
- Reason for requesting the speech-language evaluation
- School/education history
After the case history information is reviewed, the client will participate in a comprehensive evaluation, which includes a combination of standardized and informal assessments.
What areas may be assessed as part of a speech-language evaluation at Columbus Speech & Hearing?
- Expressive language (how a person uses language to communicate)
- Receptive language (how a person understands language)
- Articulation and Apraxia (the accuracy and intelligibility of spoke communication)
- Stuttering and Fluency (speaking smoothly and without effort)
- Social Engagement and Interaction (how a person plays, interacts and/or communicates with others)
- Phonemic Awareness (the ability to recognize and manipulate the spoken parts of words)
- Hearing Screening (depending on their age and medical history)
What happens after the evaluation?
The evaluating speech-language pathologist will step out of the treatment room for a few minutes to score the assessment(s) and gather any relevant handouts and resources. They will review the results of the evaluation and share their recommendations with the client and/or anyone who accompanies the client to the evaluation. The client and/or their caregiver will be given a Quick Summary Speech-Language Evaluation Sheet that summarizes the evaluation results and recommendations covered by the speech-language pathologist. If speech therapy is recommended, the speech-language pathologist will take the client to the business office to speak with one of our schedulers.
In a few weeks, a thorough speech and language evaluation will be sent to the client, which will include:
- Case history information and reason for referral
- The results of all standardized and informal assessments
- A speech-language diagnosis, if applicable
- Recommendations
- Referrals, if applicable
- Treatment goals, if applicable
Adapted from PRO-ED, Inc. 1988