What sets Communication Beginnings apart?

We are dedicated to targeting what is most important for your child to reach their communicative potential. We are not afraid to work through challenging behaviors— in fact, we often use these behaviors in order to develop functional communication skills.

How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?

Parents and caregivers know their children the best, so if you suspect a speech and/or language issue, you should seek out an evaluation from a speech-language pathologist. Contact us today and we can support you through this process. Click here for developmental milestones: https://www.asha.org/public/speech/development/chart/.

What is ABA and how it is used in speech therapy?

ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis and is the science of applying the principles of behavior and learning systematically to improve socially significant behaviors. When it comes to speech therapy, communication is viewed as a socially significant behavior. The use of ABA in speech therapy assists in arranging for motivation through engaging activities, identifying sources of reinforcement, and identifying evidenced-based teaching strategies to teach a variety of new behaviors (saying words, using an AAC device, following directions, learning new words, articulation, etc.).

Is ABA only used when working with children with autism?

While ABA is often heavily associated with working with individuals with autism, ABA can be used with everyone and for a variety of interventions, such as smoking cessation or even weight loss!

My child currently receives ABA services. Do they also need speech therapy?

Behavior and communication are closely connected, so it is likely that your child may already be working on communication-related targets with your ABA services provider. What we offer as dually certified SLP-BCBAs is a deep understanding of speech and language development while utilizing evidence-based teaching strategies and data-driven treatment. We are strong believers in interdisciplinary collaboration. When working with other professionals, we like to ensure that all outcomes and goals are in alignment.

My child has challenging behaviors. Will that be an issue?

Not at all! Frequently, we will start by observing any identified challenging behaviors in order to learn how to turn them into functional and meaningful communication. Prior to any treatment or assessment, we will work with you on determining the safest way to respond.

Do you take insurance?

At this time, we are in-network with Highmark Blue Shield and Capital Blue Cross (not including Medicaid). For all other insurances or if you choose to not use your insurance provider, services are considered Private Pay. We accept cash, check, money orders, and credit or debit card payments (including HSA/FSA payments). However, we are happy to provide you with a superbill. A superbill is a document that contains the appropriate codes for services provided. You are able to submit the superbill to your insurance provider for possible reimbursement. Please visit our Services page for a summary of costs.

Where and when do therapy sessions take place?

We are open Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Currently, we offer services in locations convenient to you and your family, such as in-home, daycare facilities, or behavioral agencies. Individual therapy sessions usually occur 1-2 times per week.

How do I set up an initial consultation?

E-mail contact@communicationbeginnings.com or call (717) 559-5452 and we will talk you through scheduling an initial consultation. You can also click Contact Us in the upper right-hand corner.