Preparing for Your First Speech Therapy Session: What You Need to Do

Starting speech therapy for the first time can feel like stepping into the unknown. You might be a little anxious, hopeful, or just unsure about what to expect (and that's completely normal). It's a new experience, and like most things in life, a little preparation can go a long way. The more you understand what's ahead, the more confident and comfortable you'll feel walking into that first session.

So, what should you expect in your first speech therapy session? How can you set yourself (or your child) up for success?

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know before stepping into your first appointment—from understanding what speech therapy involves, to what paperwork you'll need, and how to make the most of your time with a speech-language pathologist.

What Is Speech Therapy?

Speech therapy is more than just learning how to pronounce certain words. It's more about improving communication and, in some cases, swallowing abilities.

A licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) assesses and treats a wide range of conditions, such as:

Speech sound disorders (like lisps or articulation delays
Language delays or disorders)
Social communication difficulties (pragmatic language)
Stuttering or fluency issues
Cognitive-communication disorders (often due to brain injury or stroke)
Swallowing disorders (dysphagia)

Your SLP will tailor their approach based on age, condition, and individual needs. Speech therapy can be for toddlers just learning to talk, school-age children, adults recovering from stroke, or seniors managing cognitive decline.

Before the First Session: What You'll Need to Prepare

Let's walk through the essential steps you can take before your first session.

1. Gather Background Information

Just like seeing any healthcare provider, your speech therapist will want a full picture of your history. Come prepared with:

Medical history, any previous diagnoses, medications, surgeries, or developmental concerns
Education or school records, especially if this is for a child
Past assessments or reports, if you've worked with other professionals
Family history of speech, language, or learning issues (if applicable)
Observations, when do the communication challenges seem to happen most?

Writing these down in advance can help you avoid the "brain freeze" moment when you're asked about specific concerns.

2. Clarify Your Concerns and Goals

Be clear about why you're seeking therapy. Are you concerned about pronunciation, vocabulary, social interaction, or something else?

Write down a few specific examples—when does the issue happen? How does it affect day-to-day life? This helps the therapist get a clearer picture from the start.

Also, try to think ahead: What would success look like to you? Maybe it's your child being able to say "r" sounds more clearly, or an adult gaining confidence in work presentations. This is key for goal-setting.

3. Complete Any Intake Forms Ahead of Time

Many clinics will send you digital forms to complete before the session. These might include:

Personal information
Insurance and billing info
Consent forms
Medical questionnaires

Filling these out ahead of time avoids cutting into your session time and ensures a smoother process overall.

4. Know What to Expect Logistically

Find out the basics:

How long is the session?
Is it in-person or via teletherapy?
Where do you park?
Do you need to bring anything?

If your session is virtual, make sure your tech is ready to go, check your webcam, microphone, and internet connection. A quiet room without distractions makes a big difference.

During the Session: What Will Happen

The first session is usually about getting to know you and gathering information.

1. Assessment and Observation

The SLP will likely perform an informal or formal assessment. This might include:

Talking and listening exercises
Reading or repeating words
Playing games (for children)
Swallowing or voice tests (if needed)

Don't stress if it feels like "testing."Think of it as fact-finding to create the best treatment plan.

2. Building Rapport

Especially for children, building trust and comfort is a big part of the first few sessions. Don't worry if the therapist spends some time just chatting or playing. That connection lays the groundwork for future progress.

Adults may find the therapist asking questions about work, social settings, or daily communication challenges to tailor their support better.

3. Initial Impressions and Discussion

At the end of the session, the therapist may share some initial thoughts or impressions. They'll explain the next steps and how future sessions might look, whether it's weekly visits, at-home practice, or group sessions.

You'll also get the chance to ask questions. Don't hold back. You're a key player in this process.

How to Get the Most Out of Speech Therapy

1. Consistency Is Key

Progress in speech therapy is often gradual. Attending regularly and following through with home exercises (if given) makes a big difference. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect, and this couldn't be truer in speech work.

2. Get Involved

For parents, your involvement is crucial. The therapist may give you activities or cues to reinforce learning at home. Think of yourself as part of the team, not just a bystander.

Adults can also benefit from daily practice. Try integrating speech strategies into everyday conversations; consistency and repetition matter.

3. Be Patient with the Process

Speech therapy is not a quick fix. There might be ups and downs, especially at the start. But stick with it. When progress feels slow, remember: Rome wasn't built in a day.

Celebrate small wins, whether it's mastering a sound, using a new word, or feeling more confident in a conversation.

That first speech therapy session might feel like diving into the deep end, but once you're in, you'll realize you're not alone. The therapist is there to support, guide, and empower you (or your child) to communicate with more clarity and confidence.

Being prepared lays the foundation for a productive and rewarding therapy journey. With the right mindset, clear goals, and a little patience, you'll be speaking volumes before you know it.

And if you're inspired to explore this field professionally, online SLP programs offer flexible paths to becoming a certified speech-language pathologist, so you can help others find their voice, too.