Pediatric Speech + Language Therapy
Expert Speech & Language Therapy for Children in Durham and Chapel Hill, NC
At Therapy Smarts, we believe communication is the key to connection. A Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) helps create connections. Speech Therapy visits focus on a child’s overall ability to be able to interact with and enjoy his or her environment. Speech-Language Therapy generally helps a patient with communication, articulation, auditory processing, voice/fluency, and oral motor movements for speech/eating. Our pediatric speech therapy serving the triangle goes beyond teaching words; we empower children to express their needs, share their ideas, and thrive in their daily environments.
What Does a Pediatric Speech Therapist Do?
A pediatric speech-language pathologist (SLP) is a specialist dedicated to helping children find their voice and navigate the world with confidence. Beyond just ‘fixing speech sounds,’ our therapists at Therapy Smarts work work with children of all ages to strengthen the complex systems behind communication and physical development.
Our specialized team focuses on:
- Speech & Articulation: Helping children produce clear sounds so they can be understood by peers and teachers.
- Language Development: Building the vocabulary and grammar skills needed for a child to express their thoughts and understand others.
- Social Communication: Teaching the ‘unspoken rules’ of conversation, such as eye contact, turn-taking, and reading social cues.
- Feeding and Swallowing (Dysphagia): Addressing sensory or structural issues that make eating, chewing, or swallowing difficult or unsafe.
- Cognitive Skills: Strengthening memory, problem-solving, and organization to help with academic and daily success.
Early intervention and treatment with a speech language therapist can significantly impact a child’s overall development and academic success. Speech pathologists help children communicate more effectively, which can boost their confidence, social interactions, and academic performance.
Does My Child Need Speech Therapy?
Deciding whether your child needs professional support can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate those questions alone. While every child develops at their own pace, there are key communication milestones that serve as important markers for growth. At Therapy Smarts, we look at the 'whole child'—from how they produce sounds to how they interact with peers. If you happen to notice difficulties in one or more of these areas, an evaluation for treatment may be appropriate:
- Difficulty learning sounds for letters in preschool or kindergarten
- Has a history of chronic ear infections or tubes
- Stuttering for more than 3mos, no matter age
- Seems to not hear you or has “selective” hearing
- Aside from mom or dad, adults have difficulty hearing and understanding your child after age 3
- Has a diagnosis of hearing loss at any age, including prior to age 1
- Not combining two-words by age 2
- Not using words or gestures to communicate by 12 months
- Has difficulty following directions or problem-solving in school
- Does not seem interested in peers/siblings
- Does not respond to name or “Stop/No” by 12 months.
Have Question? We Are Here to Help
Pediatric Speech & Language Therapy: Who Can Benefit?
- Attention Deficit Disorder
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Apraxia
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Bell’s Palsy
- Central Auditory Processing Disorder
- Cerebral Palsy
- Cleft Lip or Palate
- Chronic Ear Infections
- Cognitive Communication Deficit
- Disease of Vocal Cords
- Developmental Disorder of Speech and Language
- Down Syndrome
- Dysarthria
- Dyspnea
- Dysphonia
- Dyslexia
- Expressive Language Disorder
- Facial Weakness
- Feeding Difficulties
- Fluency Disorder
- Frontal Lobe and Executive Function Deficit
- GERD/GER
- Hearing Loss
- Hyper/Hyponasality
- Intellectual Disabilities
- Jaw Asymetry
- Lalling
- Lisping
- Mixed Receptive-Expressive Language Disorder
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Neurofibromatosis
- Nodules of Vocal Cords
- Paralysis of Vocal Cord and Larynx
- Phonological Disorder
- Polyp of Vocal Cord and Larynx
- Speech and Language Delay Due to Hearing Loss
- Slurred Speech
- Swallowing Disorders
- Tracheostomy
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Voice Resonance Disorders
Expert Techniques That Make a Difference
Our Speech-Language Pathologists are Trained in These Proven Approaches:
- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
- Snap+Core
- PROMPT
- The S.O.S. Approach to Feeding
- The Hanen more than words
- Sensory certificate program for SLP0
- DIR Floortime trained
- Natural language acquisition for gestalt language processing & echolalia
- Barton reading and spelling program for children with dyslexia.
Testimonials
Pediatric Speech & Language Frequently Asked Questions
If you have concerns about your child’s speech or language development, trusting your instincts and seeking help early can make all the difference. At this tender age, a Speech-Language Pathologist can perform a gentle, age-appropriate evaluation to understand your child’s unique needs.
Even if therapy isn’t immediately necessary, you’ll leave with practical tools and guidance to nurture your child’s communication right at home.
Early intervention is more than just a service—it’s an opportunity to shape your child’s future. The sooner we begin, the stronger the foundation for learning, social connection, and self-confidence.
If your heart is telling you something isn’t quite right, don’t wait. Supporting your child today can open doors to a lifetime of growth and joy.
If your child is showing any of the following signs, it may be time to consider a speech and language evaluation:
- Not combining words by age 2
- Not using words by 18 months
- Difficult to understand by age 3
- Frequent frustration or withdrawal related to communication struggles
- Trouble understanding or following directions
- Difficulty being understood by others
- Challenges with stuttering, articulation, or pronunciation
- Social communication difficulties, such as limited eye contact or trouble taking turns in conversation
At our center, we offer professional screenings and comprehensive evaluations to determine whether speech therapy is recommended.
Early identification and support can make a lasting difference. If you have concerns, trust your instincts—taking the first step now can empower your child for a lifetime of successful communication.
Speech therapy sessions are individualized, engaging, and play-based, designed to make learning both effective and enjoyable for your child.
A licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) will tailor each session to your child’s unique needs and goals, using a variety of tools such as games, books, toys, and structured activities. Through purposeful play and evidence-based strategies, your child will build essential communication skills in a supportive and motivating environment.
Our goal is not only to improve speech and language, but to help your child gain the confidence and tools to connect, express, and thrive—both now and in the future.
Speech therapy sessions typically last 30 minutes and are scheduled 1 to 2 times per week, depending on your child’s individual needs and therapy goals.
This frequency allows for consistent, focused intervention while supporting steady progress over time. Your speech-language pathologist will work with you to determine the most appropriate schedule for your child.
This is one of the most common—and deeply personal—questions families ask. And we understand the emotion behind it.
As speech-language pathologists, our goal goes beyond teaching words. Our mission is to help your child connect with the world around them, to express their needs, share their joy, and be truly understood—whether that’s through spoken language, sign language, gestures, or AAC (augmentative and alternative communication).
Every child’s voice is unique. For some, it’s verbal. For others, it starts with a sign, a picture, or the touch of a button. What matters most is not how they communicate, but that they can—and that they feel heard, valued, and empowered.
We walk beside you on this journey, celebrating every sound, every sign, every breakthrough—because communication is more than words. It’s the bridge to relationships, learning, and confidence. And we’re here to help your child build it, one step at a time.
That’s perfectly okay. We’ll build on past progress and create a plan tailored to your child’s current needs.
In-person therapy is typically recommended, but teletherapy is available depending on your child’s needs and insurance coverage.
Coverage depends on your plan. We accept most major insurances and will review your benefits during the intake process. We also offer private pay options.
Additional FAQ’S – see main page.
During the evaluation, a licensed therapist will assess your child’s strengths, challenges, and developmental needs in the specific area of concern. We take time to understand your child’s unique profile, discuss your family’s goals, and create a personalized therapy plan to support meaningful and lasting progress.
Observation:
The SLP watches how the child communicates in a natural setting.
This may include play-based interactions, how the child responds to questions, or how they engage with toys, books, or people.
We always begin by building rapport with your child, ensuring they feel comfortable and engaged. At Therapy Smarts, every evaluation is more than just an assessment—it’s the first step in your child’s journey toward growth and success.
Not Sure If Your Child Is On Track?
Communication milestones can be confusing. Download our free Pediatric Speech & Language Milestone Guide to see how your child compares to age-based standards.
Trusted Expertise for Your Child’s Journey—Right Here in the Triangle
Finding the right support for your child is a big step, and you don’t have to do it alone. At Therapy Smarts, we combine award-winning expertise with a heart for families. Whether your child needs help with speech, movement, or behavior, our team of experts works together under one roof to make sure they get the best care possible.
With modern, welcoming locations in both Durham and Chapel Hill, we’re proud to be the go-to spot for pediatric therapy in the Triangle. We’re here to do more than just provide therapy—we’re here to give your child a clear path to a brighter, more confident future.
Durham Clinic: 1920 NC-54 Suite 240, 360 Durham, NC 27713
Chapel Hill Clinic: 1130 Weaver Dairy Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
