Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions2023-09-01T12:51:44-04:00

Swim Whisperers® Swim Lessons

What are Adaptive Swim Whisperers Swim Lessons?2024-03-01T12:52:58-05:00

Swim Whisperers® swim instruction is based on the Swim Angelfish Methodology. Our instructors assess and identify the underlying problem the swimmer is having learning to swim, and then implement the strategies they need to overcome these roadblocks. In short, the goal of Swim Whisperers® is to turn any child into a confident and independent swimmer, no matter their situation or ability.

The  Swim Whisperers® program was specially designed to cater to children with severe to mild sensory issues, problems with motor skills, difficulty processing information, attention issues, or any other condition that might physically or psychologically impede the process of learning to swim. In some cases, the obstacle may be something as simple as a child who is unwilling to put their head under water, or who is terrified to let go of the side of the pool. Our program addresses all kinds and severity of challenges.

What type of training do your instructors have?2024-01-05T13:51:39-05:00

All of our Swim Instructors are trained in the following:

  • Starfish Aquatics Institute: The Starfish Swim School Instructor Development System©
  • First Aid and CPR
  • Adaptive Swim Whisperers® Certified
My child is afraid of water/swimming can you help them?2024-01-05T13:51:39-05:00

Absolutely! This is our specialty. We use a range of adaptive techniques that have been proven to work with individuals who have a fear of the water or are anxious swimmers. Read our inspirational blog about one of our swimmers and their journey from fear and anxiety to fun and independence.

Are your sessions private or group?2023-09-01T13:13:56-04:00

For both aquatic therapy and Swim Whisperers, we offer Private, Semi-Private (2 children), or Group (3-4) sessions. Generally, children start with private sessions to establish basic skills, then work their way up to semi-private and group sessions, which offer increased social interaction benefits.

Will my child always have the same swim instructor?2024-01-05T13:51:39-05:00

Building a strong bond matters! That’s why we usually pair your child with the same dedicated Swim Whisperers® instructor for continuity and comfort. This allows your child to build a trusting relationship and make consistent progress. In rare cases, if a substitute is needed, we’ll make sure they’re fully informed about your child’s goals and routines to ensure a seamless transition.

What can we do to make our first lesson go smoothly?2024-01-05T13:51:39-05:00

There are several things we can do to help ensure that your child’s first swim lesson at Swim Angelfish is a success! Once you have a spot in our lesson program, we will send you some helpful suggestions which include visiting the pool in advance, having an intake call with your swim instructor (so that we can understand how to best help your child meet their goals), establishing a routine for coming to each lesson, bringing comfort items with you as well as using positive reinforcement and being patient.

What can I do at home to help develop my child’s skills?2024-01-05T13:51:39-05:00

Supporting your child’s swim skills at home is a great idea! You can practice many skills in the bath, like blowing bubbles, learning how to breathe properly, and simple at-home exercises that can help with a child’s motor planning, muscle strengthening, and body control.

Once you begin lessons with us, your instructor will provide you with a Home Exercise Program (HEP) that will guide you through some other ideas to try.

Do you have an adult adaptive swim lesson program?2024-01-05T13:51:39-05:00

Yes, we do. We offer adaptive swim lessons to people of all ages! Our method works with all ages and abilities and the ability to be in a private lesson can provide an opportunity for an adult to learn in a comfortable and supportive environment.

How do I get started? Can I register online?2023-08-30T09:02:29-04:00

To enroll in our Swim Whisperers® Swim Lessons or Angelfish Aquatic Therapy sessions, please start by visiting our Registration page and choosing your region – either Massachusetts & New Hampshire or Connecticut & New York – and then continue to complete the registration form.

We will contact you to find a time and instructor that works best for your child.

Are swim lessons covered by insurance?2023-12-06T09:07:32-05:00

No. However, certain state programs provide funding for swim lessons through grants – so please contact your local authorities to understand more about their funding and support programs.

How do I pay?2023-08-30T16:20:55-04:00

The Payment is due at the time of service. Once you register, we ask that you enter a credit card into your account. Mind Body is a secure system that stores your credit card information before your first lesson and it will be charged after your session. We will charge your card on file within 24 hours of your service.

Our team does not have access to the account number or credit card information.

How can I find a Swim Whisperers® certified instructor near me?2023-10-24T12:12:09-04:00

To find a swim instructor who has completed the Swim Whisperers® Multi-Level Certification Program near you, search for them on our global map.

Aquatic Therapy

What is Aquatic Therapy?2023-09-01T13:18:44-04:00

Aquatic therapy is performed by specially trained Physical therapists and Occupational therapists. We use the therapeutic properties of the water to enhance our treatment and provide core strengthening, increased flexibility and range of motion, integrate primitive reflexes, improve coordination, improve dynamic balance and promote sensory integration.

Is Aquatic Therapy the same as traditional OT and PT?2023-09-01T13:21:25-04:00

The main difference between Aquatic Therapy and OT or PT is that we can treat multiple areas at once using the therapeutic properties of the water to enhance treatment.

While Aquatic Therapy can work on similar goals to traditional OT and PT, the therapeutic properties of the water add a motivating sensory element that cannot be replicated on land. With your skin being your largest organ and the water surrounding your entire body, we have an element of deep pressure that cannot be replicated. When these properties are incorporated into the therapeutic handling that we do, the client is able to multitask on multiple systems, all at the same time. The best part about it is that it is fun, motivating and prepares your child for a lifelong skill of more comfort and independence in the water.

Is Aquatic Therapy covered under health insurance?2023-09-01T13:20:07-04:00

We are considered an out-of-network provider.

We bill the services as outpatient as either Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy, depending on which therapist provides the treatment. Please check with your insurance provider to determine what if anything is covered. The billing code for individual therapy is 97113.

For all other health insurance-related questions please visit the Insurance tab in our FAQ section.

Do I need a perscription from my child’s doctor?2023-08-30T08:41:18-04:00

No, you do not need a script for services in the states of MA, NH, CT and NY. But it can help to get one from your child’s doctor if you are planning on submitting for reimbursement to help justify services.

When will I receive my Evaluation Report?2023-08-30T08:42:35-04:00

Your therapist will email it to you within 2-3 weeks of the initial evaluation.

I need a letter of medical necessity or justification. How do I get that?2023-09-01T13:20:52-04:00

Email your therapist directly to get a letter of justification, please allow 1-2 weeks for this to be completed. You can also ask your child’s MD to write one as well.

How do I pay for Aquatic Therapy sessions?2023-08-30T16:16:22-04:00

Payment is due at the time of service. Mind Body is a secure system that stores your credit card information before your first lesson and it will be charged after your session. For any other payment or billing related questions, refer to the ‘Billing’ tab in our FAQ section.

Are your sessions private or group?2023-09-01T13:13:56-04:00

For both aquatic therapy and Swim Whisperers, we offer Private, Semi-Private (2 children), or Group (3-4) sessions. Generally, children start with private sessions to establish basic skills, then work their way up to semi-private and group sessions, which offer increased social interaction benefits.

How do I get started? Can I register online?2023-08-30T09:02:29-04:00

To enroll in our Swim Whisperers® Swim Lessons or Angelfish Aquatic Therapy sessions, please start by visiting our Registration page and choosing your region – either Massachusetts & New Hampshire or Connecticut & New York – and then continue to complete the registration form.

We will contact you to find a time and instructor that works best for your child.

Swim Whisperers® Swim Lessons vs Aquatic Therapy

What is the difference between Aquatic Therapy and Swim Lessons?2023-09-01T13:22:55-04:00

Aquatic Therapy uses the therapeutic properties of the water to assist in achieving therapy goals. We work on motor planning, reflex integration, core strength, balance, self-regulation and bilateral coordination.

Most children with special needs will benefit from aquatic therapy. The therapeutic qualities of water are a wonderful alternative to or can complement traditional therapies for a variety of diagnoses including Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and any sensory-motor challenges. In our blog Everything You Need to Know About Pediatric Aquatic Therapy we share some of the reasons why you might expand your child’s services to include Aquatic Occupational, Physical and Recreation Therapy.

Adaptive Swim Lessons are designed specifically for individuals with disabilities or special needs. Our Swim Whisperers swim lessons are tailored to meet the needs of each individual and aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to learn how to swim, improve their swimming skills and gain water safety awareness.

Adaptive Swim lessons provide individuals with disabilities or special needs the opportunity to learn an essential skill, build confidence in the water, and enjoy the many benefits of swimming in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Adaptive Swim lessons are not Occupational Therapy or Physical Therapy and cannot be billed to insurance.

How do I know which is better for my child – Aquatic Therapy or Adaptive Swim Lessons?2024-03-01T12:50:43-05:00

Sometimes the decision is not clear and you may need help from a Therapist to determine that. We have created a Swim Assessment, which is performed by an experienced therapist (who is also a swim instructor). They will work with your child for a 30 minute session and assess a checklist of skills to help you answer this question and better guide you in the next steps based on your goals. This assessment is not a therapy evaluation and is not able to be submitted to insurance.

My child has had swim lessons in the past and still cannot swim, should we do adaptive swim lessons or therapy?2024-03-01T12:52:27-05:00

To help determine your child’s needs, it may be beneficial to register for a service assessment so that our experienced therapists can assess and make an appropriate recommendation to help meet your goals.

Swim Whisperer Swim Lessons focus on addressing the underlying obstacle your swimmer is having in achieving swim skill benchmarks. The goal is safety, more independence in the water, and learning to swim.

Aquatic Therapy uses the therapeutic properties of the water to assist in achieving therapy goals. We work on motor planning, reflex integration, core strength, balance, self-regulation and bilateral coordination.

Will my child learn to swim in Aquatic Therapy?2023-09-01T13:25:40-04:00

We will not work on swim skill benchmarks or stroke mechanics in Aquatic Therapy as that is not the purpose.

Your child will, however, learn how to be safer and more independent in the water as it pertains to your therapy goals for independent balance, mobility and motor planning.

How long will my child need Aquatic Therapy? When can they start Adaptive Swim Lessons?2024-03-01T12:51:17-05:00

This is specific to your particular child and once their therapist feels that they are ready to take adaptive swim lessons.

Are your Therapists and Swim Instructors able to work with a swimmer that has a lot of sensory motor issues and anxiety?2023-09-01T13:27:44-04:00

Yes, our instructors are specially trained to overcome the underlying problem causing their anxiety.

Is Aquatic Therapy the same as Land-Based therapy?2023-09-05T11:47:08-04:00

Aquatic Therapy acts as a complementary or alternative method to traditional therapies for conditions like Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Sensory-Motor challenges. By leveraging water’s properties, individuals can work towards therapeutic goals in an environment that reduces the impact of gravity and supports their developmental needs.​

Billing

How do I contact you with a billing question or issue?2023-08-30T16:12:44-04:00

We are happy to help you with any billing issues you might have. Please email billing@swimangelfish.com.

How do I pay?2023-08-30T16:20:55-04:00

The Payment is due at the time of service. Once you register, we ask that you enter a credit card into your account. Mind Body is a secure system that stores your credit card information before your first lesson and it will be charged after your session. We will charge your card on file within 24 hours of your service.

Our team does not have access to the account number or credit card information.

How do I get my invoice?2023-08-30T17:29:46-04:00

You will receive an invoice via email at the end of the month to self-submit to insurance from billing@swimangelfish.com.

Make sure to check your spam folder if you do not receive it.

Can I use my health insurance for your services?2023-08-30T16:27:38-04:00

Health insurance cannot be used for Adaptive Swim Lessons.

Health insurance can be used for Aquatic Therapy sessions.

For more insurance related questions please select the ‘Insurance’ tab in our FAQ section where you will find comprehensive answers.

Insurance

Which services are covered under health insurance?2023-08-30T17:18:12-04:00

Only Aquatic Therapy can be covered by insurance.

Are you contracted/in-network with any insurance companies?2023-08-30T17:18:37-04:00

No, we are out of network providers with all insurance companies.

Can I get an out of network exception?2023-08-30T17:18:50-04:00

If your plan requires you to only render services with providers in-network, you may be offered an ‘out of network exception’ since aquatic therapy is a specialty service and may not be offered in your area. It is important that if you do so, you work with a case manager to ensure approval.

Often, since we are not contracted by insurance, there are difficulties with reimbursement despite the initial ‘approval’. If you can prove that there are no in-network providers in your area that can do the specialized therapy for your child’s needs, you can be granted an ‘out of network exception’. They may ask you to call your provider when this is getting approved.

Make sure to have all tax ID, NPI, CPT and diagnosis code (ICD 10) information for this call.

How do I know if insurance limits my session to 30 minutes of coverage (2 units) or 45 minutes of coverage (3 units)?2023-08-30T17:19:12-04:00

Your insurance company will outline this in your ‘approval’ or plan so be sure to clarify. They will let you know if they approve by units of service (time), or CPT codes. They will also let you know the CPT codes they approve.

Does my insurance require a PT v. OT or visa-versa?2023-08-30T17:19:43-04:00

It is important that you clarify with your insurance company what type of therapist is rendering the services to make sure there are no errors when submitting your claims. All paperwork must be consistent.

What CPT code should I use?2023-08-30T17:20:07-04:00

Use code 97113 for Aquatic Exercise Therapy, per 15 minutes of service.
For an Physical Therapy evaluation use code 97162.
For an Occupational Therapy evaluation use code 97166.

My insurance wants to use another CPT code is that okay?2023-08-30T17:20:14-04:00

A private insurance company can recommend using a different CPT Code, if so please email billing@swimangelfish.com to change the invoice. Please note the bill will include that services were rendered in the pool (aquatic setting).

What is the NPI number I should use on my claim?2023-08-30T17:20:37-04:00

The NPI number for CT/NY is 1780979369

The NPI Number for MA/NH is 1801279492

My insurance wants me to provide the therapists NPI, how do I find that?2023-08-30T17:21:13-04:00

We put the therapist license number on the invoice, but we use a company NPI number.

What is the Tax ID number I should use on my claim?2023-08-30T17:21:40-04:00

The Tax ID number for CT/NY is: 06-1724026

The Tax ID number for MA/NH is: 46-5747811

What is the company name?2023-08-30T17:22:06-04:00

The company name for CT/NY is Angelfish Therapy LLC.

The company name for MA/NH is Swim Whisperers Swim School New England LLC.

Our billing address is 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford CT, 06905

What diagnosis code do I use?2023-08-30T17:22:41-04:00

Your child’s doctor is the only one who can provide you with the correct ICD-10 codes. Please ask for the ICD-10 codes from your MD to be put on your account and added to your monthly invoice.

It is often best to use ones that match what the outpatient land-based therapy is using and may include more than one. Try not to use a code that indicates general developmental delay as this is usually not reimbursed.

I have a new diagnosis code I want to add, how do I go about doing that?2023-08-30T17:23:03-04:00

Email your therapist directly to add a new ICD-10 code and it will be updated on your next monthly invoice.

My insurance company needs to talk to my child’s therapist directly for a peer-to-peer review. Can you help?2023-08-30T17:23:42-04:00

Please email your therapist and they will work to accommodate a time to set up the call, please understand that our staff have responsibilities outside of their time at Swim Angelfish and may require certain times/days.

My insurance has a question I can’t answer about Aquatic Therapy, where is the best place to go?2023-08-30T17:25:54-04:00

Contact the office@swimangelfish.com or call 203-545-0024, or see if your provider is available to be called in while you are on the line with the insurance company.

Can I use my flexible spending account for therapy?2023-08-30T17:26:13-04:00

Some of our families have had success in the past, but be sure to check with your flex-spending provider/employer. You can email billing@swimangelfish.com to set up payments.

What are other ways to get services covered?2023-08-30T17:26:32-04:00

We have received support from two organizations (The Fearless Angel Project and JT Fortin Foundation) that award Scholarships for Adaptive Swim Lessons and Aquatic Therapy, which we suggest you apply for. Some of our families have had success with their local organization scholarships. You can also look at the Department of Disabilities or Department of Children and Families for available funding if applicable.

Can Swim Angelfish submit a claim on our behalf?2023-08-30T17:29:05-04:00

No, families are required to self-submit we do not work directly with any insurance companies.

Training

What types of Swim Instructor training do you offer?2023-09-01T13:17:32-04:00

For Swim Instructor training we offer an Adaptive Swim Whisperers Certification program. This is a multi-level, online training program where you will learn a variety of time-tested strategies that are proven to overcome the 14 most common roadblocks faced by swimmers with special needs.

Visit our Swim Whisperers Certification page for more information.  

What types of Therapist training do you offer?2023-09-01T13:16:45-04:00

We have 4 online, continuing education Therapy courses for aquatic professionals where you will learn new treatment and handling techniques, understand how to integrate reflexes and overcome roadblocks to help your pediatric clients with special needs achieve their therapy goals.

Visit our Adaptive Aquatic Therapist Training page for more information.

We also host an Aquatic Therapy In-Water Lab for aquatic professionals who have completed the Totally Treatment online course.

Visit our In-Water Workshops page for more information.

How can I find a Swim Whisperers® certified instructor near me?2023-10-24T12:12:09-04:00

To find a swim instructor who has completed the Swim Whisperers® Multi-Level Certification Program near you, search for them on our global map.

What are the Swim Whisperers® Perks?2023-10-24T13:59:04-04:00

The Swim Whisperers® Perks include:

  1. Continued access to your training account with all of the course materials (for the level you have completed).
  2. Inclusion on the Swim Whisperers® Certified Instructors Map – so that potential new clients can find you easily.
  3. Membership to the Swim Whisperers® Private Facebook Group – dedicated answers to your questions from Ailene & Cindy, support from other certified instructors and access to a network of aquatic professionals.
  4. Ability to participate in our in-water workshops taught by Ailene and Cindy.

These Perks are granted on completion of your Swim Whisperers® certification for each level. They expire 1 year after completion of your certification, unless you ‘level up’ and enrol in the subsequent Swim Whisperers® level. Once you complete all 4 levels you will have lifetime access to the perks.

How long does it take to complete each Swim Whisperers® level?2023-10-24T12:12:08-04:00

We recommend completing the Swim Whisperers® course within 90 days from the date of enrollment. This timeframe allows you to consistently build and consolidate your understanding of the course material over three months.

Why do I need to maintain my Swim Whisperers® Certification?2023-10-24T14:51:05-04:00

There are lots of great reasons to maintain your Swim Whisperers® Certification and continue to progress through this multi-level training program.

Maintenance by ‘leveling up’ benefits you because:

  • Continue to promote yourself as Swim Whisperers® Certified.
  • Keep access to the Swim Whisperers® Perks (all course material, remain listed on the Swim Whisperers® Certified Instructors Map and continue to be a member of the Swim Whisperers® Private Facebook Group).
  • Continue to build your knowledge and grow your adaptive skills.
  • Ensure that you stay up-to-date with adaptive swim practices.
  • Remain effective when teaching individuals with special needs to swim.
  • Have a record of your adaptive aquatics learning journey.
How long does my Swim Whisperers® Certification status last?2023-10-24T12:12:09-04:00

Your Swim Whisperers Certification and Perks are valid for 1 year from the date of enrollment in each level.

To maintain your certification, you must advance through each Swim Whisperers level. Advancement to the next level, must occur within 1 year (12 months) of enrolling in the course level. Once you complete all 4 levels you will have lifetime access to the Swim Whisperers Perks.

What happens if I do not maintain my certification?2023-10-24T14:51:15-04:00

If you do not maintain your certification by enrolling in the subsequent level, you will lose access to all of the course material and information in your Swim Angelfish® Training Account (Teachable).

You will be unlisted as a Swim Whisperers® Certified Instructor on our Map and your membership to the Swim Whisperers® Private Facebook Group will be deactivated.

You will not actively be able to promote yourself as Certified in the Swim Whisperers methodology.

If you have completed Swim Whisperers® Level 4, however, you will gain lifetime access to your Swim Angelfish® Training Account (Teachable) and the associated Swim Whisperers® Perks.

Does my Swim Whisperers® Certificate expire?2023-10-24T12:12:08-04:00

Whilst there is no expiration date on your Swim Whisperers® Certificate, we do require you to Maintain Your Certification status to keep access to your Swim Whisperers® Perks.

It is important to invest in continuing education to keep your adaptive aquatics skills and knowledge current. By leveling up through the Swim Whisperers® program, you will learn how to integrate and apply the adaptive techniques and strategies you learned from each level into your swim curriculum to transform your ability as an instructor.

Title

Go to Top