Speech Therapy

Speech Therapy Under the EIDBI Benefit

Speech therapy is a vital service offered under Minnesota’s Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention (EIDBI) benefit. This evidence-based therapy focuses on improving communication, language development, and social interaction skills for children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or related conditions.
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Speech therapy helps individuals build the skills needed to express themselves, interact with others, and navigate daily life with confidence. Families, schools, and providers collaborate to create a supportive environment that encourages growth and success.

Speech Therapy Services We Provide

Speech and Language Assessments

Comprehensive evaluations conducted by licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to identify strengths, challenges, and areas for growth.

Assessments include receptive language (understanding), expressive language (speaking), articulation, and social communication skills.

Individualized Treatment Plans (ITP)

A personalized therapy plan tailored to the child’s specific communication needs and developmental goals.

Developed in collaboration with families and providers, the ITP outlines measurable objectives and strategies for success.

Progress is monitored regularly, with adjustments made as the child grows and achieves milestones.

Communication Skill Development

Teaching verbal and non-verbal communication skills to help children express their needs and emotions effectively.

Focuses on building vocabulary, forming sentences, and improving conversational abilities.

Social Communication Therapy

Helps children understand social cues, take turns in conversations, and engage appropriately with peers and adults.

Targets pragmatic language skills, such as tone of voice, body language, and facial expressions.

Articulation and Sound Production

Addresses pronunciation challenges to enhance speech clarity and reduce frustration in communication.

Uses evidence-based strategies to improve specific sounds and speech patterns.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

For children with limited verbal communication, AAC tools like communication boards, picture exchange systems, or speech-generating devices are introduced and practiced.

Empowers children to express themselves in ways that work best for them.

Feeding and Swallowing Therapy (if needed)

Support for children with difficulties in chewing, swallowing, or managing mealtime behaviors.

How Speech Therapy Supports Families,
Providers, and Schools

For Families

Parents and caregivers are actively involved in therapy to reinforce strategies at home.

Training sessions empower families to support communication and manage challenges in daily life.

For Providers

Speech therapy integrates with other EIDBI services, ensuring a holistic approach to the child’s development.

Providers collaborate to align therapy goals with the child’s Individualized Treatment Plan (ITP).

For Schools

Speech therapy supports classroom success by helping children improve communication and social skills.

EIDBI speech therapists can work with schools to align therapy goals with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Providers offer strategies for teachers to support the child’s progress in school.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is speech therapy under EIDBI?

Speech therapy is a service offered through the EIDBI benefit to support communication and language development in children with ASD or related conditions. It focuses on improving verbal, non-verbal, and social communication skills.

Who provides speech therapy?

Speech therapy is delivered by licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) who are qualified to provide services under the EIDBI benefit.

How does speech therapy fit into EIDBI services?

Speech therapy complements other EIDBI services, such as direct intervention and family training, to create a well-rounded plan that addresses the child’s developmental needs.

Can speech therapy be provided in schools?

Yes, speech therapy can be coordinated with schools to align goals with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Therapy can also occur in-home, in the community, or via telehealth.

How do I access speech therapy through EIDBI?

Schedule a Comprehensive Multi-Disciplinary Evaluation (CMDE): This assessment determines eligibility for EIDBI services.

Develop an ITP: Work with your provider to include speech therapy as part of the child’s plan.

Begin Services: Start speech therapy sessions tailored to the child’s goals.

Is speech therapy covered by insurance?

Speech therapy is covered under the EIDBI benefit for children enrolled in Minnesota Health Care Programs, including Medical Assistance (MA) and MinnesotaCare.

What role do families play in speech therapy?

Families are integral to the success of speech therapy. Caregivers receive training to practice strategies at home, ensuring consistency and reinforcing the child’s progress.

What if I have more questions?

If you have additional questions or need assistance, contact us at info@oascsmn.org, and our team will be happy to help.

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Why Choose Our Speech Therapy Services?

Individualized Care: Every child receives a personalized therapy plan tailored to their unique needs and goals.

Collaborative Approach: We work closely with families, providers, and schools to ensure consistent support.

Focus on Social Skills: Peer interactions and group activities help children build meaningful relationships.

Experienced Therapists: Our licensed Speech-Language Pathologists specialize in working with children with ASD and related conditions.

Accessible Services: Speech therapy is available in-home, in schools, in the community, or via telehealth.

Holistic Support: As part of the EIDBI benefit, speech therapy integrates seamlessly with other services to provide comprehensive care.