Speech Therapy

Speech Therapy in Central Massachusetts and Beyond

Many conditions can affect your ability to speak and understand others. The speech-language pathologists (SLPs) at UMass Memorial Health evaluate and treat the full range of speech, language and swallowing disorders. We see adults and children in our inpatient and outpatient clinics. 

Conditions We Treat

Our SLPs work with adults and children who are affected by:

Articulation Disorders

These disorders affect children, and the most common ones include trouble pronouncing an “s” or “r” sound. Our therapists work with your child to strengthen the muscles involved in speech and guide them through pronunciation. We also discuss strategies you can use to help your child at home.

Auditory (Hearing) Processing Disorders

Auditory processing disorders (APDs) interfere with your brain’s ability to process and understand what you hear. APDs can affect children and adults. Common causes include neurological problems, ear infections, genetics or head injuries. Our speech therapists create a personalized plan based on the areas of speech that need support.

Congenital Conditions

Children with craniofacial differences like cleft palate may benefit from speech therapy. Our therapists help with pronunciation, resonance (how the voice sounds) and other challenges. Learn more about how we care for children in our Craniofacial Clinic.

Feeding and Swallowing Disorders

The muscles involved in chewing, sucking and swallowing must work together when you eat and drink. If you have a swallowing disorder, you may feel like food is stuck in your throat, or you may choke or cough when eating or drinking.

Cancer, neurological problems and congenital conditions may cause feeding or swallowing disorders. Our SLPs help you learn muscle coordination and provide a personalized dietary plan. Learn more about how we care for children with these disorders in our Pediatric Nutrition program.

VitalStim for Dysphagia

VitalStim is an advanced, noninvasive therapy for dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). The treatment uses a low-level electrical current to stimulate throat muscles. It’s especially effective when combined with swallowing or speech exercises. Our team includes SLPs with advanced training and certification in VitalStim.

Language or Fluency Disorders

Fluency disorders, like stuttering and cluttering (speaking too quickly or cutting words off), affect children and adults. These disorders may be a result of learning delays, autism spectrum disorder or APDs, but sometimes there is no obvious cause. We provide a customized therapy plan to help you or your child learn to speak clearly and confidently.

Speech Impairments from Neurological Conditions

Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke and traumatic brain injury can slow or slur speech and lead to trouble pronouncing words. You might also have challenges processing and understanding speech, writing or reading.

Our therapists have deep knowledge of the complex connection between your brain and speech. We work with your other providers to understand your diagnosis and unique challenges. Then, we develop a plan that addresses your needs.

Tongue Thrust

Tongue thrust is when a child involuntarily pushes their tongue forward in their mouth. Over time, the tongue misplacement can affect a child’s speech. Our speech-language pathologists help your child regain tongue control with proven exercises and drills.

Vocal Strain

Speaking with incorrect resonance can cause pain, vocal fatigue and a scratchy voice. We work with speakers, singers and others who rely on a healthy voice. Our SLPs teach you how to project your voice with little to no strain on your vocal cords.