Parent FAQ: Speech Therapy & Step Up Scholarships

Find clear answers about online speech therapy for children, getting started with BVG SLP, and using Step Up For Students scholarship funds in Florida.

Does BVG SLP accept private-pay clients or Step Up For Students scholarships?

Yes! BVG SLP welcomes private-pay families as well as families using eligible Step Up For Students scholarship funds. Payment options and service recommendations are discussed during the initial consultation.

Can Step Up scholarship funds pay for speech therapy?

The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) can support eligible services from a licensed speech-language pathologist. What you can purchase depends on your child's scholarship, available funds, and the program's current requirements. Provider approval does not mean every service or purchase is automatically covered.

Read the official FES-UA scholarship information and guidance on using scholarship funds for current details.

How do I get started with Step Up at BVG SLP?

Book a free consultation and let us know which Step Up scholarship your child receives. We can discuss the services you are looking for and confirm the payment steps before scheduling. Please do not send your EMA password or private scholarship account details through the contact form.

Do I pay through EMA or request reimbursement?

Step Up uses EMA to manage scholarship accounts. Depending on the scholarship and eligible expense, families may use provider payments or request reimbursement. Before paying out of pocket, confirm the current process and required documentation with Step Up and ask BVG SLP about payment arrangements for your planned services.

Are learning resources and children's books covered too?

Coverage for a therapy service does not automatically extend to books, digital downloads, or other products. Check your scholarship's current purchasing rules and any approval requirements before buying a resource with scholarship funds.

What is online speech therapy like for my child?

Teletherapy connects your child with a speech-language pathologist through a live video session. Activities and support are planned around your child's communication goals. During your consultation, we can discuss your child's interests, attention, technology needs, and whether online sessions are a good fit.

How long are therapy sessions?

Speech-language therapy sessions typically last 30 minutes. However, session length and frequency are individualized based on each child's communication needs, developmental level, attention, and therapeutic goals.

Can my child receive private speech therapy if they already receive speech-language services at school?

Yes. Children may receive private speech-language therapy in addition to school-based services. Private therapy is individualized to each child's communication needs and can complement the support provided at school.

Where does BVG SLP offer teletherapy?

BVG SLP offers online speech and language therapy for school-aged children in Florida and California. Your child's location during sessions matters for licensing. Please confirm your location and current availability when you contact us. Step Up scholarship questions on this page refer to Florida programs.

What do we need for an online session?

A reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone, and a comfortable, quiet space are a helpful starting point. We will discuss any materials and adult support your child may need before the first session.

Do I need to sit with my child during therapy?

The right level of parent or caregiver involvement depends on your child's age and needs. Some children benefit from an adult nearby to help with technology or activities. We will discuss a plan that supports your child and gives you practical ways to help between sessions.

Who will work with my child?

Your child will work with an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist with extensive teletherapy experience. We will discuss your child’s needs and introduce the treating clinician before services begin.

How much does therapy cost, and how often will we meet?

Contact BVG SLP to discuss current rates, availability, and recommended next steps. Session frequency depends on your child's needs and plan. Current rates and private-pay or eligible scholarship payment arrangements are discussed individually and confirmed before services begin.

What if I am not sure where to start?

You do not need to have every answer before reaching out. Tell us what you have noticed and what you hope will become easier for your child. Book a free consultation or email belinda@bvgslp.com.