From first call to first session.
Here is exactly what happens, what it costs, and what you need to bring. No surprises.
Free 15-minute call
We talk about what you're noticing. I'll tell you honestly whether an evaluation makes sense now, or whether it's reasonable to wait and watch. If I'm not the right fit, I'll say so and point you somewhere better.
Evaluation
Usually one to two sessions, play-based, in your child's languages. I'll ask you about home, school and history. You get a written report and a conversation in plain language about what it means and what I recommend.
A plan you understand
Goals written in everyday words, how often we'll meet, roughly how long, and what you can do at home this week. Plans change as your child changes.
Therapy
Weekly or twice-weekly sessions, in person or online. Parents are in the room. Progress is reviewed together every few months.
Fees and insurance
Fees depend on the service and are discussed on the free call. Speech Li is a private-pay practice; I do not bill insurance directly, but I provide a monthly superbill you can submit to your insurer for out-of-network reimbursement.
Superbills provided monthly. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may be charged.
Where sessions happen
In person
Home and community-based sessions in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Ask about your location on the call.
Telehealth
Anywhere in California, on a HIPAA-compliant video platform. You need a device with a camera and a quiet spot. Works well for school-age children, parent coaching and follow-ups.
Questions parents ask
Do I need a referral from a doctor?
No. You can contact me directly. If your insurer requires a referral for reimbursement, I can help you with the paperwork.
Will learning two languages confuse my child?
No. Decades of research show bilingual children reach the same milestones as monolingual children. If a child has a delay, it shows up in both languages, which is why evaluating in both matters.
Should we stop speaking Chinese at home?
Please don't. Children need a rich language model, and yours is strongest in your own language. Switching to a weaker language usually makes things harder, not easier.
My child already gets speech at school. Why private therapy?
School services target educational impact and are often in groups. Private therapy can be more frequent, more individual, in your home language, and can include you as a parent.
What ages do you see?
Birth through 18. Most of my families have young children. Adults are seen by arrangement through telehealth.
Not sure if you should be worried? Let's talk for 15 minutes.
Free, no pressure, in English, 廣東話 or 普通話. Sometimes the answer is "keep going, this is normal." Sometimes it's "let's take a closer look." Either way you'll leave knowing.