10/14/2025
School-based speech therapy focuses on how your child’s communication skills impact their education — such as understanding lessons, participating in class discussions, following directions, interacting with teachers and peers, etc. Services are provided only if a speech or language difficulty affects your child’s ability to learn or access the curriculum.
Home or clinic-based (outpatient) speech therapy is designed to support your child’s overall communication skills across daily routines at home, during play, in the community, and with family or friends. Outpatient therapy can address a wide range of needs including articulation, language development, social communication, fluency (stuttering), or feeding/swallowing. These sessions are individualized and often offer a more flexible and intensive approach tailored to your child’s unique goals.
It’s possible (and sometimes beneficial!) for children to receive both school-based and outpatient therapy if their needs impact them educationally and functionally. However, it’s not always necessary or expected that a child will qualify for both and that’s okay! Each setting uses its own criteria and focuses on your child’s specific areas of need.
If you have any questions about school-based vs outpatient speech therapy please feel free to reach out, I would be happy answer any questions you may have.
