Early Speech and Language
Early Language Intervention
By engaging children in playful, relationship-based interactions that follow their natural interests and developmental level we can build foundational skills such as self-regulation, shared attention, two-way communication, and symbolic thinking.
We focus on child-centered treatment strategies, evidence-based language stimulation techniques, and parent or caregiver training to increase receptive/expressive language, first sounds, words and phrases, and functional communication.
AAC and Total Communication
AAC and Total Communication
A Total Communication (TC) approach is meant to increase effective interactions by combining various methods such as spoken language, sign language, gestures, facial expressions, writing, drawing, visual aids, communication boards, and electronic devices like voice output communication aids (VOCAs) and speech-generating devices (SGDs).
We utilize a TC approach to increase functional communication by implementing use of gesture and low-tech/high-tech AAC in impactful and practical ways, ensuring every individual has a means to express their thoughts, wants, and needs.
Feeding and Swallowing
Sensory sensitivities and oral/oropharyngeal deficits
Sensory sensitivity: Healthy and positive relationships with food can be fostered by utilizing a comprehensive approach that addresses underlying sensory challenges . We use Food Chaining strategies to promote comfortable and confident mealtimes, increase willingness to try new or different foods, and decrease unwanted behaviors. Diagnoses related to sensory sensitivities that can impact eating include autism, down syndrome, ADHD, cerebral palsy, FASD, prematurity and failure to thrive.
Oral and oropharyngeal deficits: Careful consideration of medical history paired with therapeutic exercises aimed at increasing strength, range of motion, coordination and endurance of oral and oropharyngeal muscles paired with compensatory strategies when needed. Maintaining adequate nutritional intake, increasing swallow safety, and decreasing dietary restrictions are some of the reasons an individual might seek out speech therapy services for dysphagia. Conditions related to oral and oropharyngeal deficits include stroke, TBI, Parkinson's disease, dementia, and other neuromuscular disorders.
Speech and Language in Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Children and Adults
Speech and language impairments that are developmental, congenital, or acquired can have a significant negative impact on daily living and quality of life. We treat children and adults with developmental speech and language disorders, stuttering, acquired motor-speech, voice, and language disorders due to stroke, TBI, aphasia, dementia, etc.
