Speech-Language Therapy

Speech-Language therapy focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of speech, language, swallowing, cognitive and voice disorders. The speech-language pathologist develops a treatment plan with the patient utilizing individual and group therapy sessions to address deficits. Sessions involving education of the patient’s family are encouraged throughout the patient’s stay.

The speech pathologist individualizes the therapy plan, by capitalizing on the patient’s interest and hobbies. Therapy plans may include projects, computer activities, specific cognitive/speech exercises and self-initiated activities.

The UAB Speech & Hearing Clinic strives to remain on the cutting edge of technological advances by offering two of the very latest developments in swallowing evaluation and therapy. The Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) aids in assessing swallowing function and diagnosing swallowing disorders. Patient’s diagnosed with a swallowing disorder, known as dysphagia, may be candidates for pharyngeal electrical stimulation, which stimulates and strengthens the muscles involved in swallowing through the use of a small electrical current.

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices allow people with severe communication disabilities to participate more fully in their social roles with family, friends, co-workers, and in all other interpersonal relationships. Augmentative and alternative communication evaluations are available at the speech clinic, usually with representatives from AAC companies in attendance to answer any questions you may have.