Speech Therapy Consulting Speech Therapy Consulting
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Worried Your Child Isn't Talking Yet?

You're not overreacting. And you're not alone. Many parents feel exactly what you're feeling right now.

"Maybe they're just a late bloomer." "Boys talk later." You've heard it all. But something in your gut says it's time to get answers.

5.0 on Google
15+ Years Experience
500+ Families Helped

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We'll reach out within 24 hours. No pressure, just answers.

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5.0
Based on Google Reviews

My son Callan has been a client at Speech Therapy Consulting, Inc. for one year. Callan's speech has improved greatly under Melony's care. He has made wonderful progress and seems to enjoy attending his weekly speech session.

Danielle R., Parent of a Late Talker

Our daughter has been seeing Melony for over a year for both speech and language delays. We've seen tremendous growth in her ability to communicate. Melony makes therapy fun and engaging, and our daughter actually looks forward to her sessions.

Jennifer M., Parent of a Late Talker

You're Here Now. That's What Matters.

If you've been told to "wait and see," we want you to know: seeking help is never the wrong choice. There's no downside to getting an evaluation. Either you'll get peace of mind, or you'll get your child started on support early, when it matters most.

You're not being paranoid. You're being a good parent.

Your toddler isn't saying as many words as other kids their age. Maybe they're not talking at all yet, or they're using just a handful of words when their peers are already combining words into sentences.

You've been told "boys talk later" or "Einstein didn't talk until he was three" but deep down, you know your child best. And your concern is valid.

The good news? Early help works. Children who receive speech therapy between ages 18-36 months often catch up quickly. The window for language development is wide open during these years, and we're here to help your child make the most of it.

Why Families Choose Us

The facts you need to feel confident in your decision

15+
Years Helping Children
500+
Families Served
ASHA
Certified Specialists
5.0
Google Rating

ASHA-Certified SLPs

Our speech-language pathologists hold the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP), the gold standard in our field.

Early Intervention Specialists

Specific training and experience working with toddlers ages 18 months to 3 years during critical language windows.

Evidence-Based Methods

We use research-backed approaches proven effective for late talkers, not guesswork or one-size-fits-all programs.

Parent Partnership

We teach you strategies to support your child at home. You become part of the team, because the real progress happens between sessions.

Does This Sound Like Your Child?

Signs parents often notice in late talkers

Not Talking by Age 2

No first words by 18 months or very few words by age 2

Limited Vocabulary

Fewer than 50 words by 24 months when peers have hundreds

Not Combining Words

Not putting two words together by age 2 ("more milk," "go car")

Trouble Following Directions

Doesn't respond to simple instructions like "come here" or "get your shoes"

Frustration Communicating

Tantrums or meltdowns when they can't express their needs

Limited Babbling

Didn't babble much as a baby, or babbling sounds very limited

Uses Gestures Instead

Relies heavily on pointing, pulling, or gesturing rather than words

Not Imitating

Doesn't try to copy words or sounds that you model

If you recognized your child in any of these, it's worth having a conversation. An evaluation can give you clarity, whether that means reassurance or an action plan.

Still Wondering If You Should Call?

There's no harm in asking questions. Get a free consultation with our early intervention specialists, no strings attached.

How We Help Late Talkers

Gentle, play-based support designed for toddlers

Play-Based Language Stimulation

We use your child's favorite toys and activities to naturally encourage word production. Therapy doesn't feel like work to your child. It feels like play.

Parent Coaching

You'll learn strategies to model language and create rich language opportunities at home. You're your child's best teacher, and we'll show you how.

Vocabulary Building

Systematic introduction of new words in functional, meaningful contexts your child encounters daily, such as food, toys, family members, and daily routines.

Early Syntax Development

Techniques to help your child move from single words to two-word combinations ("more cookie") and beyond, building sentence structure step by step.

What to Expect

Your child's journey from evaluation to talking

Typical Timeline

  • Initial Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment of expressive and receptive language, play skills, and parent-child interaction
  • Weekly Sessions: 30-45 minutes of engaging, play-based therapy tailored to your child's interests
  • Home Program: Strategies and activities you can do between sessions (the real magic happens at home!)
  • Progress Reports: Regular check-ins and updates every 3-6 months to track growth
  • Expected Progress: Many children make significant gains with consistent therapy and home practice

Every child is different. Some late talkers have an explosion of language within weeks. Others need more time and support. What matters most is starting early and staying consistent.

Insurance Accepted

We accept most major insurance providers, including coverage for early intervention

Sutter HMO
Kaiser
Cigna
Blue Shield PPO
Western Health Advantage
Regional Center (Ages 0-3)

Special note for parents of children ages 0-3: You may qualify for services at no cost through North Bay Regional Center's Early Start program.

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Common Questions About Late Talkers

While some late talkers do catch up without intervention, research shows that early help leads to better long-term outcomes. Waiting until age 3+ means missing the critical language development window. If your child isn't meeting milestones, an evaluation provides clarity. You'll either get peace of mind or start helping your child sooner. There's no downside to checking.
While therapy feels like play to your child, every activity is strategically designed to target specific language goals. We use specialized techniques like modeling, expansion, and environmental arrangement to maximize language learning. We also teach you these techniques so you can use them at home.
Most late talkers who receive early intervention catch up and graduate from therapy. The timeline varies for each child. A small percentage continue to need support as they enter preschool or school, but early intervention significantly improves outcomes and often prevents long-term difficulties.
Language delay is one possible sign of autism, but many late talkers are not on the spectrum. Other red flags include limited eye contact, not responding to their name, lack of pointing or gestures, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty with social interaction. During our evaluation, we assess for these signs and can refer for further testing if needed. Whatever we find, we'll be honest with you.
Absolutely not! Toddlers learn through movement and play. We follow your child's lead, work on the floor, chase bubbles, play with cars, whatever keeps them engaged and motivated. The best learning happens when your child is having fun.
This is very common. One parent often notices concerns before the other. We're happy to include both parents in the consultation so everyone can ask questions and get on the same page. We can also share research and milestone information that may help. An evaluation isn't a commitment to therapy. It's just getting information to make an informed decision together.

Related Conditions

Other speech and language support we provide

Let's Talk About Your Child

You've made it this far. That tells us you care deeply about your child's development. We're here to listen, answer your questions, and help you figure out the next right step, whatever that looks like for your family.

  • Free initial consultation, no pressure
  • Specialists in early language development
  • Play-based, toddler-friendly approach
  • We'll respond within 24 hours

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(707) 366-5246

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We respect your privacy and will never share your information.

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