Speech and Language
Understanding Speech and Language Therapy
Summary
Discover how speech and language therapy empowers clients of all ages and backgrounds to engage in their learning and, as adults, contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Clinicians equip their clients with essential mental, physical, and external tools, helping them become dynamic communicators.
Definition of a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)
Speech–Language Pathologists (SLPs) are skilled professionals who diagnose and treat a range of speech, language, and communication disorders. Most SLPs hold a Master’s degree in Communication Science or Disorders, with some specializing in swallowing and dysphagia.
SLPs work in diverse settings, including early intervention services for children from birth to three years, hospitals (inpatient and outpatient), clinics, home health care, and schools.
Speech-Language Pathologists provide essential speech and language therapy services.
Currently, Dynamic Communication does not have an SLP specializing in swallowing.
Who benefits from Speech and Language Therapy?
Individuals identified early for speech and language support include those with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and various diagnoses and syndromes associated with delayed communication. Additionally, adults who have experienced strokes, traumatic brain injuries, or degenerative diseases, such as ALS, may also benefit from working with an SLP.
Referrals
Referrals to our services come from a variety of sources, including parents, doctors, primary care providers, and interdisciplinary team members such as physical therapists (PT), occupational therapists (OT), dentists, orthodontists, ABA providers, and educators.
Evaluations
Each provider conducts a comprehensive evaluation before initiating any intervention or therapy. In certain cases and settings, a thorough review of existing files may suffice, particularly if a recent formal assessment has already been completed.
How long is someone in therapy?
It varies! The duration of therapy depends on several factors, including the client’s attendance, participation, and motivation, as well as the severity of their diagnosis and impairment.
For instance, if a client has 2-3 speech sound errors, therapy might last only a few months. However, a client with 10-15 speech sound errors may require over a year of therapy. In cases where an individual is seeking an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system, it can take several months to identify the best option and acquire the necessary equipment. Some AAC users and their families may work with an SLP for years as they continue to develop their skills and enhance their ability to communicate spontaneously.
Supporting diverse communication needs
Communication disorders encompass various aspects, including receptive and expressive language, pragmatic language skills (the understanding and use of social language), articulation (speech clarity), and fluency (e.g, stuttering). Additionally, some SLPs may support individuals across the lifespan.
At Dynamic Communication, we concentrate on pediatric speech and language development, as well as functional communication and augmentative and alternative communication methods. It’s important to note that many children or individuals we work with may also face additional challenges or disabilities.
Code of ethics
We have a comprehensive code of ethics in place. Additionally, we are required to complete continuing education for each certification cycle, which includes courses in ethics, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as supervision.
Creating a supportive environment
By nature, our clinicians are both compassionate and passionate about their work. We strive to collaborate with team members to effectively support each client’s success across various settings.
The role of education for parents and teams.
Parents and guardians play a vital role in collaborative teams. They are the consistent members across various settings and remain integral as a child progresses through the school system.
What makes a great SLP?
The field of speech-language pathology is broad, and SLPs cannot be experts in all areas. It’s essential to ensure that the SLP working with your child possesses the appropriate skill set for their specific needs.
A great SLP connects with both the client and their family, prioritizing the client’s best interests. If we determine that we aren’t the best fit for your needs, we are happy to provide resources and direct families to alternative providers.
Private SLP services and billing insurance
SLPs utilize CPT codes for billing; however, currently, we do not bill insurance directly. We are happy to provide a statement of service to assist families seeking reimbursement through their insurance.