Speech and Language

What is speech?
Speech is how we make sounds using the muscles of the mouth. A number of factors go into the development of this intricate system such as the strength and mobility of the muscles of the mouth and motor skills.
Individuals with a speech delays/disorders may exhibit:
  • Reduced or no babble
  • Limited speech sounds
  • Unintelligible speech
  • Stuttering
  • Phonological processes (vary by age) (e.g., “ha’ for ‘hat’; ‘top’ for ‘stop)
  • Articulation errors
What are receptive language and expressive language?
Receptive language refers to an individual’s ability to understand language (e.g., following directions, answering questions, comprehension of information).
Expressive language refers to how a child uses gesture, pictures or speech with good intent to express themselves. It encompasses vocabulary/semantics and morphology/syntax.
Individuals with receptive and expressive language delays/disorders may demonstrate difficulty with:
  • Play skills/expanding play
  • Eye contact
  • Understanding spoken language
  • Answering questions
  • Difficulty following directions
  • Reading/writing skills
  • Expressing thoughts/ideas, often leading to frustration
  • Speech delay
  • Babbling/acquisition of words
  • Affect or intention to interact
What is social pragmatic language?
Social language is used in interactions with others and in conversations. Language is constantly changing depending on the demands of the situation. Perspective taking and empathy are critical skills for solid social pragmatic language skills.
Individuals with social language problems may demonstrate difficulty with :
  • Eye contact
  • Holding conversations
  • Telling stories in an organized manner
  • Tone of voice
  • Staying on topic
  • Reading social cues
  • Personal space

Therapy sessions are tailored to the individual needs of the child. Services offered for treatment sessions may include:

  • Early intervention
  • Executive Function programming
  • Feeding Therapy
  • ILS language program

  • Lindamood Bell Programs

  • Myofunctional therapy

  • Oral placement therapy

  • PROMPT

  • Phonographix

  • Receptive and Expressive language therapy

  • Social thinking training

  • Talk Yoga

Treatment Philosophy
Speech Tree Therapy is a pediatric speech and language private practice that is committed to providing quality interventions to children and their families. We believe that treatment should be designed based on the child’s individual unique profile in collaboration with the family and other professionals working with the child. Collaboration with all professionals who work with the child, such as doctors, teachers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, is critical to therapy outcomes. Family and community focused instruction assists the child in reaching their maximum potential across domains. Treatment encourages whole child development and participation through movement, exploration, and sensory stimulation.

Therapy Sessions
Therapy sessions are tailored to your child’s specific needs and include a written note detailing the child’s goals, performance, and suggestions for carryover. Home based, center based, and school based services are offered depending on the needs of the child (and availability). VIrtual therapy sessions are now being offered!

Speechtree Therapy does not have the internal structure to accept insurance. It is recommended that you contact your insurance carrier to determine the coverage that your plan offers. We communicate with insurance companies upon written request.