At Independent Speech & Language Therapy Services (ISLTS), we offer a specialist, evidence-based DLD diagnosis service for children and young people. Our assessments are holistic, child-centred, and needs-led, ensuring that outcomes are meaningful, practical, and supportive.
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child or young person’s ability to understand and use spoken language. DLD can have a significant impact on learning, social interaction, emotional wellbeing, and confidence.
Our Approach
We recognise that every child is unique. A DLD diagnosis should never be based on test scores alone.
Our DLD diagnostic assessments:
- Consider your child’s individual strengths and needs
- Take place in real-life contexts such as clinic or school
- Are informed by parents, carers, and education staff
- Focus on understanding functional impact, not just labels
Our aim is to provide clarity, reassurance, and clear next steps for families and schools.
The DLD Diagnosis Pathway
Free telephone consultation
The process begins with a free 20-minute telephone consultation with one of our specialist Speech and Language Therapists.
This allows you to:
- Discuss your concerns
- Ask questions about DLD
- Explore whether a diagnostic assessment is appropriate
- Receive professional advice on next steps
There is no obligation to proceed.
Initial screening appointment (optional)
If recommended, we may offer an initial screening appointment.
- 30-45 minute informal, play-based session in clinic
- Focuses on your child’s understanding and use of spoken language
- Followed by verbal feedback and clear recommendations
This appointment can help families decide whether to proceed with a full DLD diagnosis assessment. If you choose to continue, the cost is deducted from the full assessment fee.
Cost: £50
Diagnostic Assessment Options
Option 1: Diagnostic assessment only
This pathway is suitable where a clear diagnostic decision is required.
It typically includes:
- A detailed parent consultation and developmental history (45–60 minutes, online or in clinic)
- Questionnaires completed by school or nursery
- 1–2 assessment sessions (45–60 minutes each, in clinic or educational setting)
- A comprehensive written report, including:
- Diagnostic conclusion
- Detailed formulation of your child’s speech, language and communication profile
- Individualised recommendations for home and education
Cost: £350–£450 (Final cost depends on individual assessment needs and will not exceed £450.)
Option 2: Combined assessment and intervention
This pathway combines diagnostic assessment with immediate therapeutic support.
It typically includes:
- Parent consultation and developmental history
- School or nursery questionnaires
- A 6-week block of therapy, usually delivered in school so that your child can be observed in their classroom setting
- Ongoing assessment and observation during therapy sessions
- Opportunities for school staff to observe sessions and receive guidance
- A detailed diagnostic report, plus:
- A structured intervention plan
- Therapy targets and resources
- Guidance on measuring progress and next steps
Cost: £750 (Additional travel costs may apply in some cases)
After Diagnosis
Regardless of whether a diagnosis of DLD is confirmed, all families receive:
- Clear, child-specific recommendations
- Guidance for supporting communication at home and school
Where appropriate, we may recommend:
- Requesting an EHCP needs assessment
- Reviewing or amending an existing EHCP
- Further therapy or school-based support
Why Choose ISLTS?
Independent Speech & Language Therapy Services (ISLTS) is led by highly specialist Speech and Language Therapists with over 25 years of clinical experience supporting children, young people and their families.
We are trusted by families, schools and local authorities to deliver clear, ethical and evidence-based diagnostic pathways that place the child at the centre of every decision.
Our focus is not simply on providing a diagnosis, but on developing a thorough understanding of each child’s individual communication profile, ensuring that families and schools receive practical, supportive recommendations that make a real difference in everyday life.
Next Steps
If you have concerns about your child’s language development or would like to explore whether a DLD assessment is appropriate:
Contact us to arrange a free telephone consultation.
Visit our DLD Service page for more information.
