Speech therapy can be a transformative journey, but what actually happens during a session? Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, understanding the process can ease concerns and set clear expectations. How do therapists tailor their approaches to each individual’s needs, and what results can you anticipate? In this article, we’ll uncover the key elements of speech therapy and what makes it so effective.
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What Can You Expect During a Speech Therapy Session?
Speech therapy sessions are designed to be welcoming and supportive, providing a comfortable environment to address communication challenges. Your speech therapist will begin by asking about your medical history, communication concerns, and personal goals. This is a chance to share what you hope to achieve through therapy, helping to shape the direction of your sessions.
Initial Assessment
The session often starts with an evaluation to understand your specific strengths and challenges. The therapist may observe communication strategies, assess speech patterns, and identify clear goals tailored to your needs.
For Children
Children’s sessions are interactive and engaging, often incorporating play-based learning with games and toys to encourage communication. Activities may include language exercises such as storytelling, picture cards, or reading, and sound modeling to practice proper articulation. Parents or caregivers are often involved, learning strategies to reinforce progress at home.
For Adults
Adult sessions focus on practical exercises tailored to individual needs. These may include improving pronunciation and articulation, managing stuttering or voice challenges, or strengthening muscles for feeding or swallowing difficulties.
Common Techniques and Exercises Used in Speech Therapy
Speech therapy incorporates a variety of techniques and exercises tailored to address specific speech and language challenges. These strategies aim to improve articulation, fluency, comprehension, and expressive language skills, all while ensuring the process is engaging and effective.
- Articulation Therapy
This technique helps individuals produce specific sounds correctly. Exercises may include repetitive practice, strengthening mouth and jaw muscles, and using tools like picture cards to focus on problematic sounds. - Language Therapy
Therapists use activities like storytelling, role-playing, and vocabulary games to develop expressive and receptive language. Visual aids such as picture books and flashcards further support comprehension and engagement. - Fluency Therapy
For stuttering and fluency disorders, strategies such as slowing speech, controlled breathing, and managing speaking anxiety are introduced. These techniques enhance speech flow while building confidence. - Oral Motor Exercises
Strengthening the muscles involved in speech is achieved through fun activities like blowing bubbles, using straws, or interactive exercises. These improve articulation and speech clarity. - Interactive Games and Play
Incorporating games such as hopscotch or sensory treasure hunts keeps sessions enjoyable. For example, children may need to say target words before advancing in the activity, integrating speech practice with play. - Parent Involvement
Home-based activities, like reading aloud, singing, or practicing speech sounds, reinforce skills learned in therapy and ensure consistent progress.
How Long Will Speech Therapy Take to Show Results?
The time needed for speech therapy to show results depends on factors like the severity of the issue, age, and consistency in practice. Mild issues, such as articulation disorders, may improve in weeks with regular practice, while complex conditions like stuttering or language disorders may require months or years of consistent therapy and reassessment.
Individualized plans and consistent effort, including home practice and caregiver involvement, are essential to achieving faster, lasting results. For specific timelines, consult a speech therapist for personalized guidance.
How to Prepare for Your First Speech Therapy Appointment
Preparing for your first speech therapy appointment can reduce anxiety and ensure the session is as productive as possible. Here are some steps to get ready:
1. Understand the Purpose of the Session
The first appointment is usually an evaluation. The therapist will gather information about speech, language, or feeding concerns by observing behaviors, discussing developmental milestones, and conducting assessments.
2. Gather Necessary Documents
Bring a list of developmental concerns, medical history, and previous evaluations if available. Relevant documents like school reports or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) can provide helpful context.
3. Prepare Your Questions
Think about what you’d like to know or clarify during the session, such as therapy goals, techniques, or ways to support progress at home.
4. Plan for the Session
Sessions may last up to two hours, so schedule accordingly. If the session is for your child, consider not bringing siblings to maintain focus. Be prepared for interactive activities, like play, used to assess communication skills.
5. Build Rapport
Therapists often use engaging activities to create a comfortable environment and establish a connection. This helps make the experience enjoyable and encourages participation.
Sources.
Hoch, L., Golding-Kushner, K., Siegel-Sadewitz, V. L., & Shprintzen, R. J. (1986, August). Speech therapy. In Seminars in speech and language (Vol. 7, No. 03, pp. 313-326). © 1986 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.
Nelson, R. O., & Evans, I. M. (1968). The combination of learning principles and speech therapy techniques in the treatment of non‐communicating children. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 9(2), 111-124.