Communicating your needs, feelings, and ideas is a core part of life. But for some people, effective communication can be challenging due to certain health conditions.
Speech therapy (sometimes called speech pathology) helps support those with disorders that cause problems with communication and/or swallowing. From making speech sounds to interpreting other people’s speech, speech-language pathologists help patients with a variety of communication needs. They also assess and treat those who experience difficulties swallowing and feeding.
At South Shore Hospital, we offer speech therapy through partner organizations in our community. Therapists provide high-quality and effective speech therapy treatment in the convenient and familiar location of South Shore Hospital.
Experienced Doctors
Complete primary care services, from routine check-ups and preventive care at five affiliated neighborhood clinics and affiliated physicians.
Friendly Staff
Excellent and personable physicians, nurses, and professional staff. Transportation Services for seniors and disabled patients at affiliated clinics and the hospital.
South Shore Hospital Speech Therapy Services
Speech therapists at South Shore Hospital treat many kinds of communication problems, such as speech sounds (how you use sounds to create words), fluency (also known as stuttering), and cognitive-communication (such as memory, problem-solving, and organization).
They also treat feeding and swallowing problems, including how you chew and swallow food and liquid. Treating swallowing disorders (also known as dysphagia) is key, as they can cause other problems, such as poor nutrition and weight loss.
At South Shore, speech-language pathologists will work closely with your care team to help you get the support you need from speech therapy.
Speech-Language Pathology Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about speech therapy, we have answers. At South Shore Hospital, we’re here to guide you through the process of getting the right care for your needs. Here are a few commonly asked questions about speech-language pathology.
When Might Someone Go to Speech Therapy?
Anyone who is struggling with communication, feeding, or swallowing can benefit from speech-language pathology. Some conditions that may lead to communication and swallowing disorders include:
- Disorders associated with stroke, brain injury, or dementia
- Craniofacial disorders, such as cleft lip and palate
- Developmental speech, language, and communication disorders, such as speech-sound delay or autism spectrum disorder
What is the Goal of Speech Therapy?
Speech-language pathologists have 4 primary goals when it comes to communication and swallowing disorders:
- Prevention
- Assessment
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
Depending on your condition and goals, your speech therapy may look different from another person’s therapy. At South Shore, we are committed to ensuring your speech therapy is designed to meet your lifestyle and needs.
Is Speech Therapy Just for Kids?
Speech-language therapy is for both children and adults with speech, language, cognitive, and swallowing disorders.
How Should I Prepare for my First Speech Therapy Appointment?
Making your speech therapy appointment is just the first step. In order to take full advantage of your sessions, you can prepare by:
- Writing down your concerns, symptoms, and goals for therapy
- Bringing key medical information, such as health conditions, medication you are taking (both prescription and over-the-counter), and a list of your healthcare providers
- Creating a list of any questions you have for your speech-language therapist
How Important Are Take-Home Exercises During Speech Therapy?
Your take-home exercises are just as important as your speech therapy sessions themselves. Any exercises or modifications your therapist asks you to do at home are essential to your success in achieving your goals.
Follow your speech therapist’s instructions exactly, including how often to do each exercise. If you have questions, ask your therapist to clarify what you should be doing at home to get better.
How Can I Schedule an Appointment With South Shore Speech Therapy?
Speech therapists at South Shore Hospital are here to treat and manage your communication and/or swallowing disorders. If you have questions about South Shore Hospital speech therapy or want to schedule an appointment, call 773-356-5276 or 773-356-5277.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A
Health Care Provider?
Search our list of health care providers and find the specialist that you need.