What is Speech Pathology? Speech Language Pathologists (Speech Therapists) are the
professionals who treat all types of
communication and swallowing disorders. They hold at least a master's degree and are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. In Florida, they also are licensed by the state.
Speech Pathologists specialize in optimizing recovery from speech, language, voice, swallowing, and cognitive (memory/thinking/reasoning) dysfunction.
Most people who have communication or swallowing problems can be helped Even if the problem can not be totally eliminated, Speech Pathologists can teach people strategies to help them cope and live more independently.
What areas can a Speech Pathologist address? Specific areas that a Speech Pathologist can address are: Aphasia - inability to speak because of a stroke or head injury
Childhood speech and language delays Cognitive impairments
- causing short attention span, impulsive behaviors, inability to problem solve and reason, disorientation and memory impairments, inability to organize thoughts and plan activities Dysphagia
(swallowing difficulty) - being unable to eat or drink Facial weakness or paralysis Glossectomy or laryngectomy - having part of the tongue or voice box removed because of cancer Slurred speech
Stuttering Voice problems - changes in the sound or quality of voice
Who can benefit from Speech Therapy? The ability to eat and communicate is essential to people of all ages.
Anyone who has difficulty in the areas listed above is appropriate for Speech Therapy. People can be born with difficulties or acquire them after a stroke, accident/injury, illness or disease.
Treatment sessions are geared specifically to the needs of each individual patient.
How can I get Speech Therapy? Speech therapy services require a physician's order.
Speech therapists see patients while they are in Halifax Medical Center, or on an outpatient basis. Appointments for outpatient evaluations can be made by calling 386-258-4969. For further information contact Speech Therapy Supervisor Taunia Nixon Hetz, MS, CCC/SLP, at the Halifax ReHab Center, 386-254-4001 ext. 6910.
Halifax Medical Center, 303 N. Clyde Morris Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -2002 Halifax Medical Center. All rights reserved.- This site is best viewed with Internet Explorer 4.01 and later
