FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that navigating child development concerns can bring many questions. Here you will find answers to the questions families ask us most often. If you do not see your question here, please do not hesitate to reach out directly — we are always happy to help.

General
General Questions
What is Beyond Barriers?
Beyond Barriers is a leading child development and assessment center in Dhaka, Bangladesh, founded by Dr. Shanta Islam, PhD. We specialize in comprehensive developmental assessments, screening, and therapeutic services for children from infancy through adolescence. Our multi-disciplinary team of psychologists, therapists, and developmental specialists uses internationally recognized, evidence-based tools and approaches to support every child’s unique developmental journey.
Who can benefit from your services?
Our services are designed for any child or family with developmental concerns. This includes children who may be showing signs of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, speech and language delays, learning difficulties, cerebral palsy, behavioral challenges, or any other developmental differences. We also welcome families who simply want a developmental check-up or guidance on supporting their child’s growth — you do not need a specific concern to visit us.
What ages do you serve?
We serve children from birth through 18 years of age. Our programs and assessments are carefully adapted to be age-appropriate at every stage, from early developmental screening for infants and toddlers to comprehensive evaluations and therapy for school-age children and adolescents. Early intervention is especially valuable, but it is never too late to seek support.
Do I need a referral from a doctor?
No, you do not need a referral to visit Beyond Barriers. Families can contact us directly to book an appointment. However, if you have a referral letter from your child’s pediatrician, school, or another professional, please bring it along as it can provide helpful background information for our team.
What are your operating hours?
All three of our locations — Mirpur DOHS, Uttara, and Dhanmondi — are open Saturday through Thursday, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. We are closed on Fridays and public holidays. We recommend booking appointments in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak hours.
Assessment
Assessment Questions
What happens during an assessment?
An assessment at Beyond Barriers typically begins with a warm welcome and intake conversation where we learn about your child’s history and your specific concerns. Our specialists then conduct structured observations, standardized tests, and interactive activities tailored to your child’s age and needs. Everything is done in a relaxed, child-friendly environment designed to help your child feel comfortable and engaged throughout the process.
How long does an assessment take?
The duration varies depending on the type of assessment and your child’s individual needs. A focused screening may take 1-2 hours, while a comprehensive developmental or psycho-educational assessment may span 2-3 sessions, each lasting 1.5 to 3 hours. We always work at your child’s pace and include breaks as needed to ensure accurate results and a comfortable experience.
What should I bring to the assessment?
Please bring any previous medical records, developmental reports, or school assessments. It is also helpful to bring teacher observations, any communication or behavior logs you have kept, and a list of your questions and concerns. For younger children, bring a favorite toy or snack to help them feel at ease. Our team will guide you through everything else you need once you arrive.
How soon will I get the assessment report?
We strive to deliver your child’s detailed assessment report within 7 to 14 working days after the final assessment session. The report includes comprehensive findings, a clear explanation of results, and practical recommendations for home, school, and therapy. A follow-up feedback session is always scheduled so our team can walk you through the report in person and answer all your questions.
Can you diagnose my child?
Yes, our qualified clinical psychologists and developmental specialists are trained to provide formal diagnoses for a range of developmental conditions, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, and more. We use internationally recognized diagnostic criteria and assessment tools. If a diagnosis is made, we will explain it clearly and provide a thorough plan of support and next steps for your family.
Therapy
Therapy & Support
What therapies do you offer?
We offer a comprehensive range of therapeutic services including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, social skills training, sensory integration therapy, and parent counseling and training. Our therapists use evidence-based, play-based methods that keep children engaged and motivated while building essential skills for everyday life.
How often will my child need therapy?
Therapy frequency depends on your child’s individual needs and goals. Most children attend 1-3 sessions per week, with each session lasting 30-60 minutes. Our team will recommend an appropriate schedule during the initial planning process and will adjust it as your child progresses. Consistency is key, and we work with families to create a manageable routine.
Can parents attend therapy sessions?
Absolutely. We believe parents are an essential part of the therapeutic process. Depending on the type of therapy and the child’s comfort level, parents may observe sessions, participate directly, or receive coaching and strategies to continue supporting their child’s development at home. We also offer dedicated parent training sessions to equip you with practical tools and techniques.
How do I know if therapy is working?
We track your child’s progress using measurable goals set at the beginning of therapy. Regular progress reviews are conducted every 8-12 weeks, during which our therapists share updates with you, discuss achievements, and adjust treatment plans as needed. You will also receive written progress reports. Many families begin noticing positive changes within the first few weeks of consistent therapy.
Do you provide home-based services?
Currently, all of our assessment and therapy services are provided at our three center locations in Mirpur DOHS, Uttara, and Dhanmondi. However, we do offer parent coaching and guidance sessions that equip you to carry out therapeutic activities at home effectively. We are exploring the possibility of home-based services and online consultations in the future — please contact us for the latest updates.
Practical
Practical Questions
How much do your services cost?
Service costs vary depending on the type and scope of assessment or therapy required. We are committed to making our services as accessible as possible. During your initial consultation, we will provide a clear breakdown of costs with no hidden fees. We also offer sliding-scale fees for families experiencing financial hardship — please speak with our team to learn more about available options.
Do you accept insurance?
We currently operate on a direct-pay basis. While we do not process insurance claims directly, we provide detailed invoices and professional reports that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Many families have been successful in obtaining partial or full reimbursement through their insurance companies. We are happy to assist with any documentation you may need.
How do I book an appointment?
Booking is easy. You can call us directly at +880 1XXX-XXXXXX, email us at info@thebeyondbarriers.com, or visit our Contact page to send us a message. A member of our team will respond within 24 hours to schedule your first visit at your preferred location — Mirpur DOHS, Uttara, or Dhanmondi.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee. We understand that life with children can be unpredictable, so we always try to be flexible and accommodating. If you need to change your appointment, simply call or message us as early as possible and we will find a new time that works for you.
Do you offer online consultations?
Yes, we offer online consultations for initial inquiries, parent counseling, and follow-up sessions. While comprehensive assessments are best conducted in person at our centers, many of our support services can be delivered effectively through secure video calls. This is especially helpful for families living outside Dhaka or those who prefer the convenience of remote sessions. Contact us to learn more about our online service options.
Still Have Questions?
We know that every family’s situation is unique, and sometimes the answers you need are specific to your child. Our team is always just a phone call or email away, and we welcome the opportunity to speak with you personally.
📞 Call us: +880 1XXX-XXXXXX
✉️ Email us: info@thebeyondbarriers.com
🕐 Hours: Saturday – Thursday, 10 AM – 7 PM
📅
Book a Free Initial Consultation
Speak with one of our specialists at no cost to discuss your child’s needs and learn how we can help.
