I have a special interest in treating speech/voice disorders for those with Parkinson's Disease and am an LSVT® LOUD certified clinician. I recognize how Parkinson's disease can have a significant impact on one's ability to communicate effectively. By understanding the symptoms and providing targeted interventions, I help my clients regain control over their voice and speech abilities and increase their confidence to engage in social interaction in everyday life. 

Typical voice and speech changes you might experience with Parkinson's Disease:

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• Reduced Vocal Loudness: Parkinson's disease can cause a decrease in vocal volume, resulting in a softer voice that is difficult for others to hear clearly.

• Hoarseness and Breathiness: Changes in vocal quality, such as hoarseness and breathiness, can occur due to the impact of Parkinson's on the vocal folds, leading to a strained or weak voice.

• Monotone Speech: Parkinson's can affect the variation in pitch and intonation, resulting in a monotone or flat-sounding speech that lacks natural expression.

• Articulation Challenges: Parkinson's disease may lead to imprecise articulation, causing slurred or mumbled speech, which can make it challenging for others to understand your words.

• Swallowing Difficulties: In some cases, Parkinson's can also affect swallowing function, causing difficulties in safely and efficiently swallowing food and liquid.
   

My approach to voice and speech therapy:
 

• Comprehensive Assessment: I will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess the specific voice and speech challenges you are experiencing. This assessment provides a clear understanding of your unique needs, allowing me to develop a tailored treatment plan.

• Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment results, I will design a personalized treatment plan to address your specific voice and speech difficulties. This plan will focus on improving vocal loudness, clarity of speech, and overall communication effectiveness. This might include voice strengthening, pacing, articulation, and varying intonation and expression exercises to assist in regaining a stronger and clearer voice.

• LSVT® LOUD. I highly recommend intensive treatment in order to re-calibrate voice volume and maintain function longer term. LSVT LOUD is a specialized treatment approach specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson's disease to address speech and voice difficulties. I am a certified LSVT LOUD clinician which means they have undergone extensive training and have expertise in delivering this evidence-based therapy. With their specialized knowledge, they will guide you through the LSVT LOUD program using a systematic and structured approach.
   

Why Choose LSVT LOUD Treatment?
 

• Certified LSVT LOUD Expertise: I am a certified LSVT LOUD clinician, which means I have undergone extensive training and have expertise in delivering this evidence-based therapy. With my specialized knowledge, I will guide you through the LSVT LOUD program using a systematic and structured approach.

• Personalized Treatment Plan: I understand that each individual with Parkinson's has unique needs and goals. I will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to assess your speech and voice abilities, as well as understand your specific challenges and aspirations. Based on this assessment, I will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that therapy is focused on addressing your speech difficulties effectively.

• Intensive Therapy Sessions: LSVT LOUD is an intensive treatment program that requires focused effort and repetition. I will provide you with individualized therapy sessions that are designed to challenge and stimulate your voice and speech abilities. The therapy will involve exercises, drills, and functional tasks that target vocal loudness, voice quality, and articulation, allowing you to maximize your potential for improvement.

• Evidence-Based Approach: LSVT LOUD is supported by extensive research and has been shown to be effective in improving speech and voice in individuals with Parkinson's disease. I stay up-to-date with the latest research and techniques, ensuring that you receive the most current and evidence-based treatment available.

• Home Practice and Carryover: LSVT LOUD extends beyond the therapy sessions. I will provide you with exercises and strategies to practice at home, promoting carryover of the skills learned during therapy into your daily life. I will guide you in maintaining your progress and integrating the techniques into your everyday communication, ensuring long-term success.

• Support and Encouragement: I am committed to your success and will provide ongoing support and encouragement throughout your LSVT LOUD treatment. I will monitor your progress closely, make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed, and offer guidance to help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
  
  For more information on LSVT LOUD, please see their website here.

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• Swallowing problems (dysphagia): If swallowing difficulties are present such as coughing when eating and drinking or a sensation of foods sticking in the throat, I can provide a clinical assessment and provide advice regarding making swallowing safer and easier. This might include an onward referral for an x-ray to assess your swallowing in greater detail. The LSVT LOUD program has the added benefit of improving swallowing safety by strengthening the muscles which help to protect you when you from food and drink 'going down the wrong way'. 

 

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Take the first step towards improving your speech, communication and swallowing abilities with our dedicated individual therapist. Early intervention is highly encouraged and advantageous to maintain function longer term - it is never too early to start treatment! Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about my Speech Therapy Services for Individuals with Parkinson's Disease.