Speech and language pathology
Speech and language pathology is concerned with issues surrounding human speech and language communication disorders. There are multiple methods of human communication using all human senses both nonverbal communication (such as facial expression, posture and gesture), and verbal communication. Speech and language pathology is primarily concerned with disorders of verbal communication, including expressive language (the production of effective communication) and receptive language (the understanding of presented communication). Speech results from voice production, and the manipulation of speech sounds creates language.
Depending on the nature and severity of the disorder, common treatments may include exercises, instructive or repetitive practice and drilling, and the use of assistive technolgy aids and introduction of strategies to facilitate functional communication. Speech therapy may also include the use of sign language and the use of picture symbols or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) from the iconic PECS System.
Diagnostics
- Screening hearing of individuals who can participate in conventional pure-tone air conduction methods, as well as screening for middle ear pathology through screening tympanometry for the purpose of referral of individuals for further evaluation and management.
- Identify, define, and diagnose disorders of human communication and swallowing (dysphagia) and assist in localization and diagnosis of diseases and conditions.
- Participate in outcome measurement activities and use data to guide clinical decision making and determine the effectiveness of services provided in accordance with the principles of evidence-based practice.
- Provide direct services using a variety of service delivery models to treat and/or address communication, swallowing, or other upper aerodigestive concerns.
- Using instrumentation (e.g., videofluoroscopy, Electromyography (EMG), nasendoscopy, stroboscopy, computer technology) to observe, collect data, and measure parameters of communication and swallowing, or other upper aerodigestive functions in accordance with the principles of evidence-based practice.
Treatment and remediation services
- Providing services to individuals with hearing loss and their families/caregivers (e.g.,auditory training; speechreading; speech and language intervention secondary to hearing loss; visual inspection and listening checks of amplification devices for the purpose of troubleshooting, including verification of appropriate battery voltage).
- Establishing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) techniques and strategies including developing, selecting, and prescribing of such systems and devices (e.g., speech generating devices.)
- Selecting, fitting, and establishing effective use of prosthetic/adaptive devices for communication, swallowing, or other upper aerodynamics functions (e.g., tracheoesophageal prostheses, speaking valves, electrolarynges). This does not include sensory devices used by individuals with hearing loss or other auditory perceptual deficits
- Addressing behaviors (e.g. perseverative or disruptive actions) and environments (e.g. seating, positioning for swallowing safety or attention, communication opportunities) that affect communication, swallowing, or other upper aerodigestive functions.
- Providing services to modify or enhance communication performance (e.g. transgendered voice, care and improvement of the professional voice, personal/ professional communication effectiveness).
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