How do I find a speech and language therapist?

Referral procedures depend on the country in which you live and treatment may or may not be accessible though your country’s national health system.

For instance in the UK, to see a National Health Service (NHS) speech and language therapist you usually need a referral from the GP, hospital consultant or Parkinson’s disease nurse specialist, although in some places you can refer yourself via your local hospital or health/primary care centre.

If this treatment is not state-funded, you can also be seen on a private basis – this means you will have to pay for any treatment and assessment you receive.

Independent speech and language therapists can be found by contacting the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (www.helpwithtalking.com) or CPLOL member associations in European Union countries.

The Parkinson’s association in your country may be able to provide information based on members’ experiences. The EPDA website contains the contact details for European and International Parkinson’s organisations.