At Starlight Care we understand the importance of human connection. That is why take pride in the skill of our unrivaled Speech Therapists, who can offer you or your patient the highest standard in the industry with a unique plan of care specialized to fit your needs. With early intervention, speech therapy can improve communication and boost self-confidence. You can depend on our Care Team to be by your side every step of the way while we collaborate with your Doctor to maximize your potential.

What is Speech Therapy?

Speech therapy is the assessment and treatment of communication problems and speech disorders. Speech impairments may be caused by an injury or illness and may include retraining of swallowing function. We can also help patients deal with languageissues, such as trouble finding the right words or difficulty forming complete statements. Speech disorders affect the vocal cords, muscles, nerves, and other structures within the throat. Causes may include:

• vocal cord damage/paralysis
• brain damage
• muscle weakness
• respiratory weakness
• strokes
• polyps or nodules on the vocal cords
  In addition, we work with patients with cognitive difficulties, including problems with short-term memory, organization, and planning. Speech Therapy offers a variety of exercises which may involve:
• exercises to strengthen oral muscles
• problem solving, memory, and organization, and other activities geared at improving cognitive communication
• conversational tactics to improve social communication
• breathing for resonance

Potential Symptoms of Speech Disorders

Depending on the cause of the speech disorder, several symptoms may be present. Common symptoms experienced by people with speech disorders are:

• repeating sounds, which is most often seen in people who stutter
• adding extra sounds and words
• elongating words
• making jerky movements while talking, usually involving the head
• blinking several times while talking
• visible frustration when trying to communicate
• taking frequent pauses when talking
• distorting sounds when talking
• hoarseness or speaking with a raspy or gravelly sounding voice

Whether you are recovering from an illness or trauma, need to overcome speech or voice difficulties, or want to communicate more effectively, we will help you navigate your personal journey to achieve a successful, meaningful outcome.