Speech Therapy
Our speech language pathologists bring a unique expertise and passion to help children and adults successfully overcome problems with speech, voice, language and swallowing. Whether caused by a brain injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, developmental delay or another issue, we are experts in helping patients regain their ability to communicate and reclaim their quality of life.
Our speech therapists develop an individualized treatment regimen to maximize the ability of each patient. Speech specialists help people with the following conditions:
- Individuals with aphasia (difficulty understanding language or verbally communicating) or a communication impairment from stroke, brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, cancer or ALS
- Adults and children with a swallowing disorder, as a result of injury, illness or developmental delay
- Individuals with voice overuse or inflammation of the vocal chords—often affecting teachers, singers, actors and others who rely on their voice for their livelihood—or other voice disorders, such as those caused by reflux or involuntary muscle movements of the larynx
- Adults and children affected by stuttering, autism, ADHD, slurred speech, and articulation disorders
We offer evidence-based treatments and techniques, allowing us to carefully tailor therapy to each patient’s specific needs and goals. Among the advanced treatment resources, many of our clinics offer the following services. Please contact a location near you to learn more.
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation treatment for treating swallowing disorders
- Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), a non-radioactive alternative to modified barium swallow studies that allows more precise therapeutic intervention
- Pediatric speech and language therapy, including individual and therapeutic group classes to overcome stuttering, language delay, and teach successful interpersonal and communication skills for children with autism or ADHD
- Recovery after head and neck cancer surgery or radiation therapy
- Specialized therapy interventions to increase vocal loudness for patient with Parkinson’s and other neurological impairment
- Videostroboscopy to assess vocal function
- Video-fluoroscopic swallowing studies
Early evaluation and treatment of swallowing problems can prevent upper respiratory congestion and/or pneumonia. Speech-language pathologists work closely with radiologists to evaluate swallowing using modified barium swallow studies to help determine the cause of the swallowing problem as a result of:
- Stroke
- Cancer surgery
- GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux)
- Progressive neurological disorders
- Pulmonary disease
Treatment typically includes management of:
- Diet and food texture recommendations
- Swallow management
- Compensatory swallowing techniques
Voice therapy is an effective way to increase vocal loudness and allows each person to communicate their needs. Treatment is available for both adults and children. Pediatric voice therapy is available for children able to attend and remain focused for a 30 minute session.
Vocal pathologies treated include:
- Vocal nodules
- Polyps
- Vocal fold paralysis
- Chronic hoarseness
- Spasmodic dysphonias
- Parkinson's disease
- Muscle tension dysfunction
Treatment may include:
- Phonation exercises
- Myofascial release techniques
- Methods to prevent vocal fatigue, vocal loss and hoarseness
Doctors Specializing in Speech Therapy
At Providence, you'll have access to a vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.
