Hearing and Speech FAQ
SPEECH QUESTIONS:
Will I be a
part of the process?
Yes, you are encouraged to participate in establishing treatment goals
and the therapeutic process.
What is a screening and how long will it take?
A screening is a gross measure of an individual's speech and language
abilities to determine if further testing or intervention is warranted.
Speech screenings and brief parent consult are completed in less than
hour.
What is an evaluation?
The evaluation determines which sounds or language skills are deficient
and to what degree, so that a speech and/or language treatment program
may be customized to the particular person's needs.
How long will the evaluation take?
The evaluation may be completed in one session or may require multiple
sessions depending on the individual and the scope of the
evaluation.
How long are therapy sessions?
A speech therapy session generally lasts 45 to 60 minutes,including a
brief parent consult.
How long will the treatment process last?
Varies from patient-to-patient. After approximately three months of
treatment, we review the progress made and are better able to estimate
the length of treatment. Implementation of home program facilitates
progress.
What if we can't afford it?
Fairfax County Health Department operates on a sliding fee scale based
on the family's income. To determine if your family is eligible for a
reduced rate, please contact the Family Assistance Worker at the clinic
you will attend. Be prepared to present last year's W-2 or the last three
pay stubs for this year.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept medicaid.
We do not handle insurance reimbursement. We will provide you with
documentation required by your insurance carrier. We strongly recommend
that you contact your insurance company to determine whether speech and
language services are included in your program. 
Can my other children come with me?
They may come; you may want to bring some quiet toys/books that will
hold their attention.
Can my friend/relative bring the child?
Yes, they may with your written authorization.
HEARING QUESTIONS:
What is a hearing evaluation?
The purpose of a hearing evaluation is to quantify and qualify hearing
in terms of the degree of hearing loss, the type of hearing loss and the
configuration of the hearing loss. The procedures used vary with the age,
communication abilities and response levels of the client.
How long will the evaluation take?
A hearing evaluation generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
What if we can't afford it?
Fairfax County Health Department operates on a sliding fee scale based
on the family's income. To determine if your family is eligible for a
reduced rate, please contact the Family Assistance Worker at the clinic
you will attend. Be prepared to present last year's W-2 or the last three
pay stubs for this year. 
Do you accept insurance?
We do not handle insurance reimbursement. We will provide you with
documentation required by your insurance carrier. We strongly recommend
that you contact your insurance company to determine whether hearing
services are included in your program.
Can my other children come with me?
They may come; you may want to bring some quiet toys/books that will
hold their attention.
Can my friend/relative bring the child?
Yes, they may with your written authorization.
You may contact us by telephone 703-246-7120 TTY 711


Website Survey