Speech-Language
Pathology

Evaluation and Treatment for Cognitive and Communication Disorders

Cognitive communication disorders result from impaired functioning of one or more of the following cognitive processes:

• Attention
• Executive Function
• Insight
• Judgement
• Language
• Organization
• Orientation
• Problem Solving
• Processing Speed
• Reasoning

A person with a cognitive communication disorder may have difficulty performing everyday activities necessary for work, school, household management, or social participation. They may have difficulty recalling information, following directions, or saying and understanding speech and language.

Evaluation and Treatment for Swallowing Difficulty (Dysphagia)

The goal of treatment is to make the swallow as safe and effective as possible. We do this by utilizing a variety of treatment methods:

• Exercises to increase the range of motion, speed, and strength of the muscles
• Modified Barium Swallow Studies — this is a procedure that is completed in Radiology with the Speech Language Pathologist and Radiologist. It consists of monitoring liquid/​food as it moves from the mouth, into the pharynx, and into the esophagus
• AmpCare ESP swallowing protocol — performed by a certified clinician for the treatment of dysphagia that combines neuromuscular electrical stimulation with resistive swallowing exercises

Evaluation and Treatment for Voice and Speech Changes

The goal of voice and speech therapy is to achieve the best possible voice with the least amount of effort. Voice changes include hoarseness, poor vocal quality, voice fatigue, effort­ful voic­ing, weak voice, or quiet voice. Voice therapy sessions may include:

• Education on how the voice works
• How to take care of the voice (vocal hygiene)
• Exercises to strengthen the voice
• Identifying specific vocal techniques that will improve vocal quality
• Improving the clarity and understandability of speech
• Working with a certified clinician in the Lee Silver­man Voice Treatment (LSVT® LOUD) for speech and voice disorders related to Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders.

Evaluation and training for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Speech Generated Devices (SGD)

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) including speech generating devices can give a ​“voice” to individuals who cannot functionally communicate using their own ability to speak. Our Speech Pathologist provide:

• Comprehensive AAC evaluations for children and adults
• Education on purchasing information for devices
• Device training and support provided to the patient and caregivers for low tech AAC devices and high tech AAC devices