Communication difficulties, no matter how insignificant, may interfere with the social, emotional and occupational lives of adults. In children, communication disorders may impede educational progress and social development. Speech-language rehabilitation reaches out to adults and children with communication and/or swallowing disorders. Our speech-language pathologists have been trained at the master's level in evaluation and treatment of these disorders. The staff is dedicated to a very practical, personal approach in developing individualized rehabilitation plans.
Oral-Motor Disorders, Dysarthria, Dysphagia
Some children are born with neuromuscular problems that keep them from performing normal physical and speech activities. Speech may also be impaired following brain damage due to a stroke or head trauma. Dysarthria is a weakness of the oral musculature which may affect the ability to speak clearly and/or swallow. Dysphagia is a difficulty with swallowing that may accompany a communication disorder.
Articulation Disorders
A disorder of articulation is a difficulty with the production of the sounds of speech. Sounds are sometimes omitted, substituted or distorted, interfering with the listener's ability to understand the speaker.
Aphasia Therapy
After a stroke or brain injury, a person may exhibit aphasia, which is difficulty with comprehending or formulating ideas, words or sentences.
Cognitive Disorders
Cognitive disorders can be described as some degree of loss in cognitive function (thought processes) due to a brain injury or stroke.The person with a cognitive/linguistic deficit may experience difficulty with attention, memory and/or organizing thoughts or actions. Our department is equipped with computers to assist in the cognitive rehabilitation process.
A cognitive driver's evaluation is available to provide an objective assessment of skills necessary for safe return to independent driving. This involves assessment of response/reaction time, processing time and organizational skills that are directly related to safe, successful driving.
Stuttering
Difficulty in getting sounds out can best describe stuttering. Sounds are abnormally repeated or reflect hesitations.
Voice Disorders
Many voice disorders such as hoarseness, excessive breathiness and unusual pitch levels may result from poor vocal habits. When a doctor determines the need, the speech-language pathologist instructs the individual in better ways to use his/her voice.