ROBYN MERKEL-WALSH M.A., CCC-SLP, COM®

New Patient FAQ

Please read before contacting for an appointment.

Do you take insurance?

I do not accept insurance and I am considered an "Out of Network" provider. I give each client a receipt (superbill) each session to submit, but it is the patient's responsibility to know what their plan covers and what procedures need to be followed. Please be aware that some companies require a script or pre-authorization prior to services. NOTE: In accordance with NJ P.L. 2018, c. 32, I must inform you that services may be covered in-network at a lesser rate and you have every right to pursue finding a provider who accepts your insurance.

What does "Out of Network" mean?

This means I do not participate with insurances as an "in network" provider. I collect fees at the time of the session, and it is the patient's responsibility to submit invoices to the insurance. Your insurance may or may not reimburse for services outside your provider network. HMO and Medicaid do not reimburse for out-of-network providers, but PPO plans do if speech is covered and medically necessary. In NJ, some plans must follow the Chapter 115 Law on Autism and Developmental Disabilities, which prohibits denying speech therapy to a child with autism or other developmental disabilities.

What services do you provide?

I specialize in oral motor, feeding, Oral Placement (OPT), PROMPT, Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs/tongue tie), orofacial myofunctional, Beckman Oral Motor, voice and articulation therapies. I treat children and adults with low tone, CP, Down syndrome, Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders, tongue-tie, facial palsy, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and a variety of diagnoses that inhibit expressive language and clear articulation. I also provide Vocology services including vocal hygiene, professional voice coaching and myofunctional therapy for tongue-tied singers, actors and other professional voice users.

Do I have to do an evaluation or can we just start therapy?

I must conduct an evaluation for each new patient without exception unless you have had a full orofacial myofunctional/feeding evaluation with either a TalkTools® advanced level therapist or a Certified Orofacial Myologist® within 12 weeks of scheduling. A clinical baseline is critical to designing a treatment plan, and insurance companies often require medical necessity documentation.

What are your fees?

Evaluation fees are determined by age/diagnosis and length of appointment and will be discussed at the time of booking.

How can I schedule and how long will I wait?

All appointments are arranged via email. I am a solo practice and do my own scheduling, so I have limited time for phone calls. In general, I have a 4–12 week wait for evaluations depending on the time of year. Each evaluation requires a signed evaluation policy and deposit within 7 days of scheduling. Once this is received, I will review records and forms.

How long will therapy continue?

This is determined by: (1) cooperation in therapy, (2) attendance, (3) carryover in the home, (4) cognitive status, (5) diagnosis, and (6) severity of the presenting problem. There is no ethical way to predict how long therapy will take. I do not offer packaged services — rather individualized care.

What forms of payment are accepted?

Teletherapy may be paid by credit card. In-person sessions may be paid by cash, check, or money order. Credit cards have fees — by limiting their use, the office can avoid rate increases.

Can I schedule a phone call before scheduling?

Like most medical appointments, a provider cannot provide medical advice without an evaluation. As part of the evaluation process, a virtual interview is conducted after the office receives the evaluation deposit, paperwork and all required information. If you would like to learn about Robyn's credentials, please see the "About Me" page, testimonials and publications.

I am ready to schedule — what is the next step?

Please go to the APPOINTMENTS tab. Fill out the contact form, indicating you have read the new patient information and that you would like to schedule. I will email you back with dates, times and fees. If you do not hear from me within 2 business days, please email me directly at robynslp95@aol.com.