According to the Cleveland Clinic, speech therapy is treatment that improves the ability of a person with or without disabilities to talk and use language skills. Speech therapy can help people with communication challenges to express thoughts, understand what other people are saying, and improve skills like memory and the ability to solve problems. Speech therapists (SLP), also known as speech-language pathologists, find exercises and interventions that address a person’s specific needs, such as talking and communicating or processing language, among other needs. The type of speech therapy that a person may need depends on several factors, including their age and which health condition or communication disorder or disability they may need to address. Speech therapy approaches may include perception exercises; learning sign language; using aids such as communication boards, or computer assisted speech; and exercises to improve breathing, swallowing, and the voice, among others. Speech therapy may be offered in various settings, including private practice, rehabilitation centers, and schools, among others.

NIDILRR currently funds over 20 research and development projects related to speech therapy, communication disabilities, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). A search in NARIC’s REHABDATA shows over 2000 articles on speech therapy from the NIDILRR grantee community and beyond.

Contact NARIC’s information specialists to learn about speech therapy resources near you.