Aphasia and other communication disorders can be caused by a stroke, brain injury, or a degenerative disease like Primary Progressive Aphasia. Speech therapy can support neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to heal, to improve language and speech skills. Speech therapists can also provide recommendations for using communication strategies to support communication while the brain heals. 

What Is Aphasia?

Aphasia is a term used to describe language difficulties following a sudden or gradual change in the brain. Aphasia can affect the ability to talk, read, write, and understand language. The severity of aphasia depends on which parts, and how much of the brain is affected.

What Other Communication Disorders are Caused by Brain Changes?

In addition to affecting language skills, an injury to the brain, like a stroke, may also cause dysarthria or apraxia of speech. These conditions can make it difficult to produce clear speech. Speech may be effortful, slurred, and difficult to understand.  

The good news is that speech therapy can speed up the brain’s natural ability to repair itself.

How Are Communication Impairments Treated?

Many people who experience sudden or gradual brain changes will require speech therapy services.

Adult Speech Therapy Services’ approach to treatment involves four key components.

• • • • • Training research-based brain exercises to promote healing and improved skills
        • Compensatory strategies to improve communication while the brain is healing
        • Development of a home practice program to facilitate ongoing exercise between therapy sessions 
        • Education and training for family members and caregivers, as their support is integral to our clients’ success

One of our experienced speech therapists will start the therapy process by getting to know each client’s individual goals. Some of these goals include returning to work or communicating with family members, or doctors.  Next, we evaluate the client to find out what skills need to be addressed in therapy. Finally, we create a customized treatment plan unique to each client.  

Where Can I Get Treatment for communication impairments In Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania?

Here at Adult Speech Therapy Services, we specialize in treating communication changes following stroke, TBI, or degenerative diseases.  Our clinicians are certified by the American Speech Language Hearing Association and have significant clinical experience treating adults with communication impairments.

If you’re interested in learning more about speech therapy services for the treatment of aphasia and other communication disorders, contact us today at 301-323-8486 to schedule a free consultation.