Speech Language Pathology or Speech Therapy is a field in healthcare focused on the assessment and treatment of speech, communication, language, and swallowing disorders. SLPs also provide Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems for people who have severe speech and language difficulties, like autism spectrum disorder or progressive neurological disorders.

Speech and communication are crucial for children and adolescent’s daily activities, academic success, and social interactions. Speech involves producing sounds, focusing on articulation, fluency, and voice, while Language is the system of communication, including the rules for combining words and sentences, their meanings, and pragmatics. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) specialize in helping children and adolescents develop these necessary communication skills. For children with severe communication challenges, SLPs also provide Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) methods to support and enhance their ability to communicate. Speech therapy interventions often include play-based activities, language games, and structured exercises depending on the child’s developmental level and specific needs.

The first step would be to schedule a Speech Language pathology evaluation. SLPs will conduct an initial evaluation by gathering medical and developmental information, administering standardized tests, observing interactions, analyzing speech patterns, assessing cognitive-communication skills, evaluating feeding and swallowing if necessary, and considering the need for Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) to develop a personalized intervention plan. Contact us for more information on how to schedule a Speech and Language Pathology evaluation. Schedule a Phone Screening.