What is Speech and Language Therapy?

As a qualified Speech and Langauge Therapist (SLT) I am able to assess and treat speech, language and communications problems, and support those with eating and drinking difficulties.

 

Speech and language therapists support children and adults with difficulties/impairments in:

• attention and listening

• social communication (including Autistm Spectrum Disorder)

• understanding language

• using language

• speech and articulation

• those who stammer

• voice problems

• feeding, chewing or swallowing

 

As a speech and language therapist I work directly with individuals to assess and treat difficulties, either individually or in groups (specialist provision). I work with the family, careers and other professionals to train those supporting children with speech, language and communication needs (targetted provision). I also work with nurseries and schools and other environments to train professionals in supporting the language and communication environment of those in their care (universal provision). I currently work in a range of settings across Stevenge, Hitchin and Letchworth.

 

Frequently Used Terms

Communication: conveying meaning or sharing information through a shared system (gestures and signs, objects, photos and symbols, words)

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Language: the system of words or signs that people use to express thoughts and feelings

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Speech: the verbal means of communication

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Articulation: how speech sounds are made and combined to produce words

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Delay: A pattern of development typical in a younger child

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Disorder: An atypical pattern of development which is not following the usual pattern or sequence expected

 

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): a condition affecting social interaction, communication, interests and behaviour

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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): communication methods used to support for replace speech. This may include signing, photos/symbols, voice output systems and high tech communication devices.

 

Dysphagia: difficulty or discomfort with swallowing