Speech and Language Therapy
Speech-Language Pathologists are equipped to evaluate, diagnose and treat a variety of communication problems. Each child is individually assessed using standardized and evidence based assessments to determine appropriate goals to help them achieve their communication potential. This may take the form of verbal or non-verbal communication methods. Parents are included in the evaluation process and are encouraged to participate in therapeutic activities through observation, in session participation, or activities sent home to maximize progress.
Problems with communication can take a variety of forms. These include:
Speech Sound Disorders
Language Delays and Disorders
Literacy
Social communication
Voice
Fluency
Cognitive-Communication
Feeding and Swallowing
Common causes of problems in these areas in the pediatric community are premature birth, genetic disorders, hearing loss, brain injury, intellectual disabilities, and developmental disabilities such as autism.
Common areas addressed during speech and language therapy for children with autism are:
Receptive Language
Expressive Language
Social Skills
Alternative and Augmentative Communication
Feeding difficulties
Our Professional Credentials
Our speech-Language pathologists hold a minimum of a masters degree from an accredited program and a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). SLP-CCCs must also pass a national accreditation exam and holds an active state license. Continued education in clinical areas of interest is required to maintain both a Florida license and ASHA certification.
How we determine your child needs speech and language therapy
If she or he:
Is not meeting expected developmental communication milestones
Has difficulty expressing their wants and needs
Has difficulty using a variety of new words
Has difficulty following directions
Has difficulty eating and swallowing
Has difficulty staying organized
Has difficulty learning to read and write
Has speech that is difficult to understand
Has difficulty making specific speech sounds
Has difficulty speaking fluently
Has difficulty making friends