Making Legal Communication Easier for People with Disabilities
At Allied Therapy, we offer communication intermediary services for disabilities across Nova Scotia. We help people who have trouble understanding or expressing themselves, especially in legal or formal settings, so their voice is heard clearly and respectfully.
Our trained communication intermediaries provide support during court, police interviews, and other official situations. We’re here to make sure everyone has equal access to communication.
What is a Communication Intermediary?
A communication intermediary is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist who:
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Supports a person with disabilities in understanding legal language
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Helps them respond in a way that others can understand
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Uses plain language, visuals, and assistive tools when needed
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Makes sure communication is clear, calm, and fair
Who Needs Communication Support for Legal Settings?
We work with:
Children and adults with disabilities such as autism, brain injury, or developmental delays
Non-speaking individuals who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
People who need help understanding complex questions
Those who struggle to express their answers clearly in high-stress environments
We provide court communication assistance and support in:
Legal interviews and hearings
Police or RCMP interactions
Medical or social service assessments
Other official situations
Our Process
1. Assessment
We assess how a person understands and communicates to decide how we can help. We build a communication profile for others to understand how to best communicate with this individual
2. Preparation
​Before the interview or hearing, we meet with the person and their legal team to plan what supports are needed.
3. Court Communication Assistance
During the legal process, we stay by their side. We support them in understanding what's said and help them share their thoughts clearly.
4. Reporting
We provide clear reports for lawyers, judges, and other professionals explaining the person’s communication needs and the best ways to support them.
FAQ
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What makes Allied Therapy different from other therapy providers?Allied Therapy offers speech, occupational, and behaviour therapy under one roof, making it easier for families to access the support they need. Our family-centred approach, flexible service options (clinic, home, school, and telehealth), and experienced team ensure that therapy is convenient, effective, and tailored to each individual.
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What age groups do you work with?We provide therapy for children, teens, and adults. Whether your child needs early intervention or you are an adult seeking support for communication, motor skills, emotional regulation or behaviour challenges, our team is here to help.
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How do I know if my child or I need therapy?If you notice delays or changes in speech, motor skills, social interactions, or emotional regulation, an assessment with one of our therapists can provide clarity. We focus on early intervention and functional progress to help individuals gain independence and confidence in their daily lives.
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Are your services covered by insurance or funding programs?Many of our therapy services are covered by private insurance like Blue Cross and other funding programs. Our team can help you navigate your options and provide necessary documentation for reimbursement.
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Do you offer free consultations?We provide a free initial phone consultation to discuss your concerns and help determine the right services for you or your child. Our team will guide you through the next steps, including assessments and therapy planning.
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Do you offer therapy at home or in schools?Yes! We provide therapy in our Bedford clinic, at client's home, in schools, and via telehealth to ensure accessibility for families across Nova Scotia. We also collaborate with community partners and caregivers to create the best possible support system.
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How long does therapy take, and how often are sessions?The length and frequency of therapy depend on the individual's needs and goals. Some clients benefit from weekly sessions, while others may require a different schedule. After an assessment, we will recommend a plan that best supports progress.
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Do I require a referral?Allied Therapy does not require a medical referral, however confirm with your health insurance provider. Some may require one to cover treatment expenses.