Private vs. School-Based Speech Therapy: What Parents Should Know
Private vs. School-Based Speech Therapy: What Parents Should Know
Understanding the differences—and how they can work together.
As the school year begins, many families are navigating speech and language evaluations, IEP meetings, and questions about services. If you’re wondering about the differences between private and school-based speech therapy, and how to choose what’s best for your child, you’re not alone.
The truth is: both options can be incredibly valuable—and often work best when combined. Here's what parents should know about the differences between private and school-based speech therapy, and how private services can fill the gaps.
School-Based Therapy: Support Within an Educational Framework
School speech-language pathologists provide essential services to students whose communication needs directly impact their ability to learn and participate in school. These services are guided by federal law and typically include:
Evaluations for eligibility through the special education process
Services written into an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Goals that align with academic performance and classroom needs
Therapy delivered in small groups or within the classroom
Limited frequency—often 20–30 minutes once per week
School-based therapists are skilled professionals, but they often manage large caseloads and must work within educational guidelines, which can affect how often and what type of support your child receives.
Private Therapy: Flexible, Personalized, and Family-Focused
Private speech therapy offers more flexibility and a deeply individualized approach. Services are not tied to school eligibility or academic impact and can focus on any area of concern. At Bud to Blossom Speech Therapy, private sessions may include:
One-on-one therapy without the need for an IEP
Goals that reflect the child’s full developmental profile—not just academic performance
Therapy that takes place in your home, virtually, or in a familiar community setting
Flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends
Parent involvement and consistent home support
Progress updates after every session
Private therapy allows us to target goals that are meaningful for your family—whether that’s improving articulation, building confidence in conversations, or supporting overall language development.
Can My Child Receive Both?
Yes. Many children receive services through their school and also work with a private SLP. Here’s why families often choose both:
To receive more frequent or intensive therapy
To work on goals that fall outside the school’s scope
To support carryover into home and social settings
To ensure continuity during school breaks, transitions, or waitlists
With your permission, I’m happy to collaborate with your child’s school-based team to support shared goals and create a more unified plan.
Supporting Your Child in Every Setting
Both school-based and private therapy play important roles in a child’s development. While school therapy ensures access to education, private therapy offers added flexibility, focus, and family involvement.
You don’t have to choose just one—and you don’t need to wait for an IEP to begin.
Serving Families in Commerce Township and Surrounding Areas
Bud to Blossom Speech Therapy provides in-home, virtual, and community-based speech and language support for families in Commerce Township, Oakland County, and nearby communities.
If you’re navigating new school routines, recent evaluations, or concerns about your child’s communication, I’d love to help.
Let’s create a plan that works for your child—and your family.
Reach out here