Learn 10 Things Your Speech Language Therapist Wishes You Knew

8. By “language,” we do not mean English.

Here’s an example of speech-therapy jargon. When we talk about “language,” we’re referring to two types: receptive and expressive. People who suffer from either type can benefit from speech therapy.

 

Your knowledge of the language is referred to as receptive language. It is the ability required for someone to comprehend what is being spoken. People who struggle with this may appear to be not listening or uninterested in what others are saying to them. They may struggle to understand questions and sentences or to follow verbal instructions.

The ability to communicate with people vocally, in writing, or through sign language or gestures is referred to as expressive language. Individuals with expressive language difficulties may not employ proper grammar or have a large vocabulary. They may use short sentences.

9. We deal with more than just speech.

When you think of speech therapy, you may see a child who stutters or speaks with a lisp. Speech-language pathologists, on the other hand, assess and treat persons of all ages who have communication problems, cognitive challenges, and even swallowing disorders. We provide a wide range of services and assistance for:

• Autism spectrum diseases

 

• Developmental or speech difficulties

• Articulation disorders

• Stroke-related problems such as aphasia

• Memory/attention problems caused by a traumatic brain injury

• Hearing loss (e.g., aural rehabilitation)

• Cleft palate

• Diseases such as cancer, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis

• Neurogenic disorders such as Parkinson’s disease

• Cognitive disorders such as dementia

• Public speaking

• Social skills

10. Everyone can benefit from speech therapy!

Speech therapy has no age restrictions. Everyone stands to gain. Speech-language pathologists may help everyone, from a youngster who needs help saying their first word to an adult who needs aid with public speaking or word finding. It is never too late to obtain the tools and resources you require to speak clearly!