Speech Therapy

Speech therapy can also be part of a multidisciplinary approach. Challenges with speech are a common sign that a child might need supportive services. A speech-language pathologist is responsible for assessing, diagnosing and treating patients with speech, language, cognitive-communication and swallowing disorders.

The pathologist may also collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as physicians, audiologists and occupational therapists. Pathologists often work in schools and have contact with children of all ages.

The following are some of the responsibilities of the speech-language pathologist for complete speech therapy: – Conducting diagnostic and screening assessments: Pathologists assess patients to determine if they have a communication disorder. This usually involves interviewing the patient and conducting observations with the patient. – Conducting Functional Communication Assessments (FCA): Pathologists may also use Functional Communication Assessments (FCA) as part of their evaluation process.

FCA’s are an integral part of the treatment process. The FCA involves a thorough observation of the patient’s communication environment and communication behaviors. Developing an Individualized Treatment Plan. Pathologists create an Individualized Treatment Plan (ITP) for each patient.

The ITP contains the diagnosis, goals and objectives, and a treatment plan. The treatment plan of speech therapy may include informing the patient about the disorder, identifying risk factors and determining goals