ESA for Speech Therapy: How Arizona Families Can Use It at Juniper Speech Therapy
- juniperspeechtherapy
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
Navigating the world of speech therapy services can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out how to pay for them. Thankfully, Arizona families have access to a powerful resource: the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program.
At Juniper Speech Therapy, we are approved to accept ESA Classwallet funds and offer holistic Speech and Myofunctional Therapy to families across Arizona.
What Is ESA?
The Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) is a program funded by the state of Arizona that gives families public funding to use on approved educational expenses. These funds can be used for:
Private school tuition
Homeschool curriculum
Tutoring and therapies
Classes and lessons
Rather than being limited to what’s offered in public schools, ESA gives families the freedom to choose what’s best for their child’s individual needs.
Two Types of ESA Funding in Arizona
Universal ESA
Open to all Arizona families
No diagnosis or IEP required
Covers curriculum, homeschool support, and educational expenses
❌ Does not cover therapy services like Speech Therapy or Myofunctional Therapy
Special Education ESA
For students with an IEP or qualifying diagnosis
Provides higher funding amounts
✅ Can be used for services like Speech Therapy and Myofunctional Therapy
Only students with Special Education ESA can use funds for Speech Therapy services at Juniper Speech Therapy.
Who Qualifies for ESA?
Universal ESA
As of 2022, all Arizona K–12 students who are eligible to attend public school qualify for Universal ESA funding. This includes:
Homeschool students
Private school students
Online school students
Students who withdraw from public or charter school
➡️ No diagnosis, disability, or income requirement needed. If your child is school-aged in Arizona, you can apply to receive Universal ESA funds.
Special Education ESA Funds
Children with a qualifying special education category on an IEP, MET report, or 504 plan may be eligible for ESA funds under the special education category, which often includes a higher funding amount.
These students typically have one or more of the following:
Speech-language impairment
Autism
Developmental delay
Orthopedic impairment
Specific learning disability
Hearing or vision impairment
Multiple disabilities
Other health impairment (e.g., ADHD, seizure disorders)
This classification gives access to additional ESA funds that can be used toward:
Speech Therapy
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Specialized curriculum and therapeutic supports
Using ESA for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy
As a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), I provide ESA-approved services including:
Traditional Speech and Language Therapy
Myofunctional Therapy (oral rest posture, nasal breathing, swallowing)
When provided by a licensed SLP, Myofunctional Therapy falls under the scope of Speech Therapy and is eligible for ESA reimbursement through ClassWallet.
How the Process Works
Apply for ESA: Visit azed.gov/esa to apply. If your child has an IEP, evaluation report, or documented diagnosis, you may qualify for Special Education ESA. Once approved, you’ll receive access to a ClassWallet account.
Schedule a Free Consultation: I’ll help you understand what services your child might benefit from, and how ESA funds can be used.
Book an Evaluation: I provide a comprehensive, root-cause-focused assessment that goes beyond speech sounds to include breathing, posture, and function.
Use Your ESA Funds Through ClassWallet: I’ll provide the required invoices for submission, and you can use your ESA funds to cover eligible services.
Why ESA Families Choose Juniper Speech Therapy
ESA-Approved – I’m already in the system, which saves you time and stress
Root-Cause Focused – We address speech clarity and the underlying function
Support for Home Educating Families – Flexible scheduling and communication
Special Education Friendly – I’m familiar with IEPs, evaluations, and the nuances of special education needs
Let’s Get Started
Whether you’re homeschooling, navigating special education, or just want a more holistic approach to your child’s development, ESA funds can help you access the therapy they need and deserve.
📧 Contact me today to schedule a consultation
📍 Phoenix, AZ | In-Person & Virtual Options Available
🎓 Speech & Myofunctional Therapy | Accepts ESA