Speech Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease
Have you noticed lately that your voice sounds different? That your speech is soft? Or that others can’t understand what you are saying?
A common symptom of Parkinson’s disease is impaired speech functioning. Here is what to look for:
Speech that is difficult to understand (e.g., slurred, mumbled)
Slowed rate of speech
Short rushes/bursts of speech
Soft sounding voice
Abnormal voice quality (e.g., hoarse, breathy, strained)
Monotone sounding voice
Speech & Voice Therapy
The speech pathologists at Neuro Speech Solutions are certified in a specialty program called Speak Out!® by Parkinson Voice Project, a non-profit that aims to help those with Parkinson’s disease regain their voice and speak with intent!
Want to hear some real results from our practice? Here are previous clients before and after speech therapy with Neuro Speech Solutions.
What is Speak Out!®?
Speak Out! is an evidence-based program that emphasizes speaking with intent and converts speech from an automatic function to an intentional act.
The program consists of 8-12 individual sessions across 4 weeks where the speech pathologist and client will work together to implement intentional speech. This is done by using the Speak Out! workbook that includes vocal exercises, readings, and cognitive tasks. For optimal results, the client is to complete a lesson each day (even outside of therapy).
After Speak Out! is complete, the client is recommended to join our Group Therapy sessions, a group of Speak Out! graduates that meet weekly to practice their intentional voice.
Slurred speech or dysarthria is a common speech disorder after stroke and brain injury or due to progressive diseases such as Parkinson’s or ALS. Here are 5 things you can do to start speaking clearly. 3 Min Read