Speech Language Pathology

Helping You Communicate

Speech language pathology can help children and adults with impaired speech (intelligibility, language or cognition problems) to decrease their frustration level and increase their ability to communicate and live independently. Speech-language pathologists at MyMichigan Health evaluate and treat a wide variety of communication and cognitive disorders, including the following:

• Aphasia – a dysfunction of the brain that impairs the ability to understand or express language
• Dysarthria – a neuromotor disorder that disrupts transmission of messages controlling the motor movements for speech
• Apraxia – an impaired ability to generate the motor programming for speech movements
• Dysphagia – a swallowing disorder that can cause aspiration of material into the lungs or otherwise impact an individual’s ability to consume food or drink
• Cognitive Deficits – such as attention deficits, memory loss, reduced reasoning skills and impaired judgment
• Voice Disorders – such as those caused by misuse or abuse of the voice, progressive neurological diseases or surgery such as laryngectomy
• Developmental Speech and Language Disorders
• Stuttering

Evaluation and Treatment

Patients are evaluated on an individual basis to assess communication and/or swallowing function. Our experts then determine a treatment plan, measure progress on an ongoing basis and change the plan of treatment as needed, to ensure the best possible outcome.

MyMichigan speech-language pathologists also have advanced training in several state-of-the-art therapies, including:

• Lee Silverman Voice Treatment® (LSVT) – one of the most recognized and effective treatments for speech disorders related to Parkinson’s disease. MyMichigan has two of the few certified LSVT clinicians in the state.
• Deep Pharyngeal Neuromuscular Stimulation (DPNS) – a quick and efficient treatment for dysphagia. Learn more about DPNS.
• Accent Modification
• Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing

Costs, Insurance and Referrals

Speech therapy services are generally covered by Medicare, Medicaid or commercial insurance. Physician referral is required. Check with your health plan carrier for details.