Speech therapy helps patients improve their communication skills by speaking, listening, understanding language, and using language to communicate effectively with others. 

Techniques used in speech therapy may include exercises to improve speech sounds, language activities to improve understanding and expression, and assistive technology to help with communication. The ultimate goal of speech therapy is to help patients communicate more effectively and improve their quality of life.

What Does a Speech Therapist Do?

Speech therapists work with people of all ages who have a variety of communication disorders, including those with developmental delays, autism, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, and stroke. Speech therapy can involve one-on-one sessions with a therapist, group sessions, or a combination.

Speech Therapist vs. Speech Pathologist

While often misconstrued as two separate professions, there are no differences between a speech therapist and a speech pathologist. Both professionals assist with supporting patients who struggle with communicating effectively.

Who Needs Speech Therapy?

People of all ages can benefit from speech therapy solutions if they experience difficulty speaking, listening, understanding, or using language effectively. These conditions include autism, cerebral palsy, dementia, developmental delays and traumatic brain injury.

How Do I Know If Speech Therapy is Necessary?

In the event that you or your child is suspected to be suffering from a speech disorder, your healthcare provider will likely recommend some initial screenings. You can use these tests to determine the cause of your child’s communication difficulties. 

What Happens During Speech Therapy?

The type and age of your speech disorder will determine what happens in your speech therapy. There are many different speech therapy approaches and categories, and your healthcare provider will determine which is right for you.

For children, therapy will likely include play activities, such as sequencing activities or language-based board games and adults are given specific skill sets that need to be improved or rebuilt.

Speech Therapy Techniques for Children

Speech therapy techniques may include various activities and approaches, depending on the child’s specific needs and goals. Here are some standard methods that therapists may use in speech therapy for children:

  • Play games: Play is an effective method of engaging children to help them practice and improve their communication skills. Therapists may use toys, games, and other playful activities to engage and engage children in therapy.
  • Sound drills: The therapist uses repetition and modeling to help the child learn to produce these sounds accurately.
  • Storytelling: Everyone loves a good story. Giving children who struggle with speaking out loud a safe and comfortable environment to read a book can make it less scary.
  • Social skills training: Children practice learning social skills by initiating and maintaining conversations, understanding and following social rules, and understanding and using nonverbal cues.
  • Assistive technology: Children with difficulty speaking may benefit from assistive technology such as speech-generating devices or picture boards. The therapist can help the child learn to use these tools effectively.
  • Make funny faces: A funny face like a smile or a frown helps kids strengthen and coordinate their muscles for better speech.

It’s important to note that the specific techniques used in speech therapy will depend on the child’s individual needs and goals. A speech-language pathologist will develop a customized treatment plan based on the child’s specific needs.

Speech Therapy Techniques for Adults

Speech therapy techniques for adults may include various activities and approaches, depending on the child’s specific needs and goals. Here are some standard methods that may be used in speech therapy for adults:

  • Tongue exercises: Stick your tongue out, hold it for a bit and then pull it back in. You can use exercises like this one to train your tongue to move in coordinated patterns.
  • Smiling: Simply smiling in front of a mirror can help improve motor skills. Smile. Relax. Smile again. Repeat this process several times.
  • Puckering up: Try puckering your lips, then relaxing. Doing this repetitively helps strengthen your muscles to help you control the movement of your mouth.
  • Reading out loud: If you struggle with moving your mouth, reading out loud can be a great way to overcome this challenge. Begin with a few small sentences and then move on to bigger sentences.
  • Solve a puzzle: Studies have shown that memory games, word searches and crossword puzzles can help maintain cognitive function and improve thinking skills.

Does Speech Therapy Work?

Speech therapy is an effective treatment for many communication disorders and can help patients of all ages improve their communication skills. Research shows that speech therapy is particularly beneficial for children with developmental delays and autism and adults who suffer from similar conditions or have experienced a stroke or brain injury. 

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of speech therapy varies depending on the individual and the specific communication disorder being treated. Some people may make significant progress in a short period, while others may require longer-term therapy to see improvement. Factors that can impact the effectiveness of speech therapy include the severity of the communication disorder, the individual’s motivation and engagement in therapy, and the availability of support and resources outside of therapy sessions.

Therapy can be to the patient’s specific needs and goals. A good speech-language pathologist will work closely with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan and may adjust the plan as needed based on their progress and changing needs.

How Long Do You Need Speech Therapy?

The length of time that you will need speech therapy will depend on various factors, including the type and severity of your communication disorder, your goals for therapy, and your treatment progress. Some people only need a few weeks or months of therapy, while others may need longer-term treatment. Your speech-language pathologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals and adjust the plan as needed based on your progress. It’s important to follow the recommended treatment plan and to be consistent in attending therapy sessions to maximize your chances of making progress and achieving your goals.

Where Can I Find Speech Therapy in Los Angeles?

If you’re looking for speech therapy Pasadena, SGV Speech Therapy Solutions is a great option. Dr. Cassi Alter has assembled a dedicated team of therapists who carry the same passion as her in assisting adult and child patients struggling with speech issues. Pick up the phone, the caring team at SGV Speech Therapy is ready to help you today!