Speech-Language Therapy (SLP)
Also known as: speech therapy
What does Speech-Language Therapy mean?
Speech-language therapy supports communication — including understanding language, using words or alternative communication, social communication, speech clarity, and feeding in some cases. It is delivered by a speech-language pathologist.
Why this term matters
Many autistic children have differences in how they communicate or understand language, and an SLP can support a wide range of needs — from building early language and exploring AAC tools to strengthening social communication skills that help a child connect with others at school and in the community.
Canadian context
SLP services in Canada are offered through schools, publicly funded children's treatment centres, hospital programs, and private clinics, and availability differs across provinces and territories. Some provincial or territorial autism or disability funding programs may help cover the cost of private SLP services, with eligibility decided by the relevant program administrator.
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