The ability to communicate through language impacts many areas of our lives. Geisinger’s speech-language pathologists treat patients with speech, language and swallowing disorders.
Speech therapists also work with children who need help with language development. This includes verbal communication, such as pronouncing words, as well as nonverbal communication.
What you should know about speech therapy:
- Speech therapists often work as part of a team, which may include primary care physicians, pediatricians, physiatrists, physical therapists and occupational therapists.
- Signs of speech and language disorders include:
- Struggling to say words
- Repeating words, or parts of words (stuttering)
- Saying words in the wrong order
- Speech that is too fast or too slow
- Language development not on track with milestones (in children)
Why choose speech therapy at Geisinger?
- Inpatient speech therapy: Our speech therapists see patients in the hospital, especially patients who have had oral surgeries or suffered a stroke. Not being able to communicate with family and loved ones is very frustrating and greatly affects quality of life. To make the greatest impact, we want to start speech therapy as soon as possible.
- Multiple outpatient clinics: You may need to continue your speech therapy after you leave the hospital. Parents may also have orders from a pediatrician or other specialist to see a speech therapist. We offer outpatient clinics across the region help make your therapy more convenient.
- Personalized care: We coordinate with other specialists to make sure you are getting the appropriate therapy. As part of the physical medicine and rehabilitation department, speech therapists work closely with physiatry, physical therapy and occupational therapy. Our purpose is to help increase function in all areas of life, including your ability to communicate.