Speech Language Pathology - Adult

Speech-Language Pathologists evaluate, diagnose, treat and enhance function in both communication (speech production, receptive and expressive language, cognition, voice, resonance, fluency, and hearing) and swallowing, including related feeding behaviors. Taking a lead role in advocating for and implementing Communication Access (i.e., low tech solutions to high technology solutions for individuals who are not able to use their voice for short term or long term reasons).

Intervention includes:

• health promotion
• capacity building
• prevention and wellness
• triage
• screening
• clinical assessment
• diagnosis
• individual and group treatment
• partner training
• education
• advocacy
• counseling
• consultation
• referral and environmental modifications to facilitate communication and safe feeding and swallowing

Speech-language pathology may support individuals experiencing;

• stroke / head injury
• neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease
• cognitive communication disorders
• developmental delays
• other neurological / degenerative diseases such as ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
• voice disorders

Works with individuals to;

• produce sounds/articulate, reduce stuttering
• understand and use language
• use the voice in a healthier way (ie. address voice disorder)
• learn another way to communicate (through a communication board or other device)
• learn ways to make swallowing easier to prevent food from entering the airway or choking
• read or write after changes to the brain
• thinking skills around communication (like memory, problem solving, and verbal reasoning)
• word finding

There is no wait time for inpatient services. The wait time for outpatient services varies depending on referral rate (typically one to two week wait period).

• Disability Supports - Specialized Therapy / Rehabilitation

Hours vary from community to community. Call local Community Health Site for information on current times.