A speech therapist helps patients improve speech and language. He or she communicates with patients, their family members and physicians, and they collaborate with teachers and other professionals to develop a treatment plan. They use proven and novel therapies to help patients improve their communication skills. Their job is also to educate patients and their families about speech disorders and available therapies. A speech therapist may need to specialize in a specific disorder, but he or she must have a strong understanding of speech and language patterns in order to provide the best treatment. read more Cleveland Feeding & Swallowing Center
Those wishing to become a speech therapist should complete a master’s degree program. The coursework in such programs often includes clinical experiences and internships. In addition, common coursework may include classes on language development and anatomy and physiology. Many working adults and other students are now opting to earn their master’s degree online.
Today’s job market is competitive and people need to improve their communication skills to be competitive. Speech therapists can help improve skills such as small talk, clear enunciation, and tone. They can also help clients manage conflict and make good first impressions. A speech therapist can also help people who suffer from a stroke or head injury recover their ability to communicate effectively.
While speech and language disorders can be difficult to treat, they can be overcome through patience, understanding, and speech therapy. Ultimately, overcoming speech and language disorders improves a person’s independence and quality of life. With the right treatment and care, a child can experience significant improvement in his or her speech and language skills.
The activities used in speech therapy will vary depending on the type of disorder a child is struggling with. Therapy may involve one-on-one or group sessions. The activities will focus on specific speech disorders. For example, language activities involve talking with a child, demonstrating the correct way to pronounce words, and engaging in phonological activities. A speech therapist can also teach children how to move their tongue for specific sounds.
Another disorder that affects language is dysarthria. It is a motor speech disorder that causes slurred and imprecise speech. A speech therapist can teach the patient how to minimize the symptoms of dysarthria, such as learning to finish difficult sounds. Another disorder that affects language and speech skills is apraxia, which is caused by brain damage, brain injury, or other conditions. An apraxic person has difficulty pronouncing words, and may constantly grope for the right words. With speech therapy, a person can regain their ability to talk.
The profession of speech pathology requires a master’s degree and specialized training. To become a speech therapist in a school, a person must have a CCC-SLP certification. However, many states also require a teaching certificate, which usually requires a master’s degree from a recognized college or university. If an individual already has a bachelor’s degree, some states will grant a provisional teaching license for two or three years.
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Cleveland Feeding & Swallowing Center
18626 Detroit Ave Suite
A Lakewood, OH
44107 (216) 320-2456