Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) refers to the use of different methods or tools to help individuals who struggle with communication. These methods and tools can include pictures, symbols, sign language, speech-generating devices, and other forms of assistive technology. AAC is commonly used by people with disabilities such as autism, apraxia of speech, cerebral palsy, or traumatic brain injuries, as well as those who have difficulty with speech or language due to other diagnoses. The goal of AAC is to enable individuals to express themselves, participate in social interactions, and engage in activities to the best of their abilities.

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder that affects a child's ability to plan and coordinate the movements needed for speech. Children with CAS have difficulty making the precise movements necessary to produce speech sounds, words, and sentences. The condition is not caused by muscle weakness or paralysis, but rather by difficulties in the brain's ability to plan and execute the movements needed for speech. Children with CAS may have inconsistent speech errors, difficulty with sequencing sounds and syllables, and struggle with producing longer and more complex words and sentences. The severity of CAS can vary widely among children, and treatment may involve speech therapy, assistive technology, and other interventions to improve speech production and communication skills.

Phonological impairment is a type of communication disorder that affects a person's ability to use and understand the sound system of language. Individuals with phonological impairment have difficulty producing or using speech sounds correctly and may substitute, omit, or distort sounds in their speech. This can make it challenging for them to communicate effectively and be understood by others. The causes of phonological impairment are not fully understood but may involve a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Treatment for phonological impairment often involves speech therapy, which focuses on helping individuals develop and improve their phonological skills and their ability to use and understand language effectively.

Persistent speech sound disorder is a type of communication disorder that affects a person's ability to produce speech sounds correctly. It is characterized by errors in speech production that persist beyond the age when they are typically eliminated in typically developing children. This disorder can affect different speech sounds, and the severity of the disorder can vary widely among individuals. The causes of persistent speech sound disorders are not fully understood but may involve a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Treatment for this disorder typically involves speech therapy, which focuses on improving the person's ability to produce speech sounds correctly and improving their overall communication skills. Our clinic specializes in treating lingering speech sound disorders for /s/, /r/, and /l/ among other sounds.

Pragmatic language disorder is used to describe a difference in the way some individuals use and understand language in social situations. It recognizes that individuals with this disorder have unique strengths and challenges, and that their experiences should be respected and valued as a natural variation of human diversity.

In this context, treatment for pragmatic language disorder is focused on providing support that helps individuals build upon their strengths and overcome challenges in communication. This may involve the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, social skills education, and other interventions tailored to the individual's needs and preferences. The goal is to help individuals with pragmatic language disorder achieve their full potential and thrive in their personal and social lives, rather than simply "fixing" them to conform to traditional social norms.

Oral myofunctional therapy is a type of treatment that aims to correct orofacial muscle imbalances and promote proper muscle function in the mouth and face. It involves exercises and techniques that help individuals develop and maintain proper tongue and lip position, swallowing patterns, and breathing habits.

Oral myofunctional therapy is commonly used to address issues such as tongue thrust, speech difficulties, snoring, sleep apnea, and TMJ disorders. It can also be used as part of orthodontic treatment to improve the alignment of teeth and jaws. Treatment typically involves a combination of in-office therapy sessions and at-home exercises and can be tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals. The goal of oral myofunctional therapy is to promote healthy orofacial function, improve overall health and well-being, and enhance speech and communication abilities.

Speech therapy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with a neurodiversity-affirming approach involves using language that respects and values the unique experiences and perspectives of autistic individuals. The goal is to support autistic individuals in developing their communication skills and promoting their overall well-being and quality of life.

Child-led therapy models are a common approach used in speech therapy for ASD. These models prioritize the child's interests, preferences, and communication styles, allowing them to lead the therapy sessions and engage in activities that they enjoy. Therapy activities may include play-based activities, social skills , and the use of visual aids, assistive technology, and other communication tools.

Speech therapy for ASD may also focus on addressing sensory sensitivities and other issues that can impact communication and social interaction. This can involve developing strategies to help individuals regulate sensory input and respond appropriately to different stimuli in their environment. Collaboration with Occupational Therapy providers is our priority.

Overall, the goal of speech therapy for ASD with a neurodiversity-affirming and child-led approach is to empower individuals with ASD to communicate and engage in social interactions in a way that is meaningful and authentic to them, while also addressing any challenges or barriers they may face.

Pediatric language disorders are a type of communication disorder that affects the language skills of children. These disorders can affect the ability of children to understand, process, or produce language, and can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the specific type of disorder.

Receptive language disorder is a type of pediatric language disorder that affects a child's ability to understand language, while expressive language disorder affects the child's ability to express themselves verbally. Mixed receptive-expressive language disorder affects both understanding and expression of language.

Treatment for pediatric language disorders typically involves speech therapy, which focuses on improving language skills, increasing communication abilities, and enhancing social interaction. Early intervention is key for the best possible outcomes.

Fluency disorders are a type of speech disorder that affects an individual's ability to speak fluently and smoothly. These disorders can include stuttering, cluttering, and other types of disfluencies.

One approach to treating fluency disorders that has gained attention in recent years is self-advocacy. Self-advocacy involves helping individuals with fluency disorders to understand their own strengths and challenges related to communication, and to develop strategies for managing their disfluencies and communicating effectively.

In speech therapy for fluency disorders with a focus on self-advocacy, individuals may learn to identify situations in which their disfluencies are more likely to occur and develop strategies to manage them, such as using slower speech or taking pauses. They may also learn to advocate for themselves in social and professional situations, such as by informing others about their disfluencies and requesting accommodations or support as needed.

The goal of fluency disorder therapy with a focus on self-advocacy is to empower individuals with fluency disorders to take an active role in managing their communication difficulties and to advocate for themselves in a variety of settings. By building self-confidence and communication skills, individuals with fluency disorders can improve their quality of life and achieve their personal and professional goals.

Pediatric feeding disorders are a type of disorder that affect a child's ability to eat and drink safely and effectively. These disorders can be caused by a range of factors, including medical conditions, developmental delays, and behavioral or sensory issues.

Symptoms of pediatric feeding disorders can include difficulty with sucking, swallowing, chewing, or coordinating breathing with eating or drinking. Children with feeding disorders may also experience aversion or anxiety related to food, leading to selective eating or refusal to eat altogether.

Treatment for pediatric feeding disorders may involve a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and nutritionists. Therapy may focus on improving oral motor skills, sensory processing, and behavioral issues related to feeding, as well as addressing any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the problem.

In some cases, feeding therapy may involve a gradual exposure to new foods or textures, with the goal of expanding the child's diet and promoting healthy eating habits. The ultimate goal of therapy for pediatric feeding disorders is to help children develop the skills they need to eat and drink safely and effectively, improve their nutrition, and achieve their developmental milestones.