Speech-Language Pathology

The Communication and Swallowing Disorders Department at Shaughnessy-Kaplan provides awide range of evaluative and treatment services to help patients maximize their communication, cognitive or swallowing skills. Speech-Language Pathologists work individually or with other team members to return the patient to their highest level of functioning in the community.

Speech-Language Pathologists provide expert care for patients who experience stroke, brain injury, dementia, head/neck cancer diagnoses, neuromuscular Diseases (including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease), tracheostomy and ventilator dependence.

Speech-Language Problems Treated
	•	Aphasia (difficulty with language after a stroke)
	•	Apraxia (motor planning difficulties in speech)
	•	Dysarthria (slurred speech)
	•	Dysfluency (stuttering)
	•	Voice Disorders (e.g., vocal cord paralysis, hoarseness, dysphonia)
	•	Non-verbal communication (augmentative devices)

Cognitive-Linguistic Problems Treated Difficulties with:
	•	Memory
	•	Orientation
	•	Attention/Concentration
	•	Organizational Skills
	•	Problem Solving or Safety Awareness
	•	Social Interaction Skills

Swallowing/Feeding Difficulties Treatments can often include:
	•	Swallow evaluations
	•	Diet texture recommendations
	•	Modified Barium Swallow Studies
	•	Face, mouth and neck exercises

Speech-Language Pathologists, in conjuction with Radiology physicians at Salem Hospital, conduct modified barium swallow studies for the assessment and treatment of swallowing disorders. Our speech pathologists also perform videostroboscopy evaluations in conjunction with ear, nose and throat physicians, to diagnose and treat voice disorders.