Association of Speech Therapists in Private Practice
Speech Therapy
 

Ensuring that your Speech and Language Therapist is registered to practice

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) recommends that:

  • All Speech and Language Therapists should be registered members of College and State Registered with the Health Professions Council. It is essential to be registered with the Health Professions Council in order to practise in the UK. Anyone claiming to practise as a Speech and Language Therapist, either in the public or private sector, without being State Registered is committing a criminal offence and could prosecuted. The letters SRSLT, MRCSLT show that the therapist is State Registered and a member of the professional body. All members of RCSLT agree to follow professional guidelines and a code of ethics. They make an annual commitment to furthering their individual professional education and development.

The Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP) requires that:

  • All members are registered members of RCSLT and state registered with HPC.

When you do decide that private therapy is for you, make sure you find the right therapist:

  • Ask if the therapist is a registered member of RCSLT.
  • Ask if the therapist is State Registered with HPC.
  • Ask if the therapist is a member of ASLTIP.
  • Ask the therapist whether they have expertise in the area you require. A good general therapist will be helpful if you are unsure about the exact nature of your problem and may be able to help you find a suitable expert.
  • You should be provided with a full and clear tariff of charges for assessment, treatment, report writing, travel and other expenses before you agree to therapy. You will be responsible for settling the therapist's bill. However, you may find that your private health insurance will cover part if not all of your expenditure.
  • Remember to ask about payment terms, payments may be required at each session or at longer intervals, perhaps monthly, by terms or on a block session basis.
  • Ask the therapist about their procedures for canceled appointments and whether you will be charged.
  • Your chosen therapist may wish to liaise with other therapists and professionals. This will only be done with your permission and all your information will remain totally confidential.