Speech-Language Pathologists Manage Sound Production in Language
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are the healthcare professionals who manage sound production in language through assessment and treatment of speech sound disorders and other communication difficulties. 1, 2
Role of Speech-Language Pathologists
Speech-language pathologists are responsible for:
- Assessing and diagnosing speech sound production disorders
- Developing and implementing treatment plans for articulation disorders
- Managing functional communication disorders affecting sound production
- Treating dysfluency/stuttering that impacts sound production
- Addressing voice disorders that affect speech sound production
Assessment Process
SLPs use several approaches to evaluate sound production:
- Standardized assessment of speech sound production
- Bedside examinations of articulation and sound production
- Specialized diagnostic tools such as:
- Videofluoroscopic swallow studies (when speech and swallowing issues co-occur)
- Laryngoscopy (for voice-related sound production issues) 2
Treatment Approaches for Sound Production Disorders
Articulation Disorders Treatment
SLPs implement various strategies for treating articulation disorders, including:
Education and explanatory approaches:
- Providing reassurance about the nature of symptoms and prognosis
- Explaining how speech sounds are actually produced versus how we think they are produced 1
Symptomatic interventions:
- Reducing excessive musculoskeletal tension in speech and non-speech muscles
- Eliminating secondary movements that interfere with normal articulation
- Using distraction techniques to normalize speech patterns
- Implementing dual-tasking while speaking
- Utilizing non-speech articulation such as singing 1
Functional Voice Disorders Treatment
For voice-related sound production issues, SLPs employ:
- Natural, reflexive behaviors accompanied by sound (coughing, sighing, etc.)
- Playful pre-linguistic vocal sounds
- Automatic phrases with minimal communicative responsibility
- Physical/postural maneuvers including laryngeal repositioning
- Attention redirection techniques 1
Stuttering/Dysfluency Management
For dysfluency affecting sound production, SLPs use:
- Reduction of excessive musculoskeletal tension in speech muscles
- Elimination of secondary movements through distraction techniques
- Speech restructuring and fluency shaping techniques
- Rate control and easy onset techniques 1
Common Treatment Patterns
SLPs often combine multiple approaches when treating sound production disorders:
- Hybrid therapy methods tailored to individual needs 3
- Typically 1-2 therapy sessions weekly for 4-8 weeks, with duration determined by symptom severity 2
- Success heavily dependent on patient practice outside of therapy sessions 2
Special Considerations
Children with Speech Sound Disorders
For pediatric populations, SLPs may:
- Select targets based on developmental approach or functional relevance 3
- Combine elements of minimal pairs approach, traditional articulatory approaches, auditory discrimination, and cued articulation 3
- Consider both phonological theories and speech production mechanics 4
- Address both speech perception and production 4
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Treating all speech sound disorders the same way: Different types of errors (e.g., lateral lisps vs. other speech sound errors) require different treatment approaches 4
- Overlooking underlying mechanisms: Process-oriented approaches that address specific deficits in speech mechanisms are more effective than generic approaches 5
- Ignoring psychological factors: Addressing anxiety and other psychological aspects related to speech production is essential for successful outcomes 1, 2
- Failing to document progress: Regular assessment of improvement is critical for adjusting treatment plans 2
Insurance Coverage
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover speech therapy for sound production disorders when:
- Provided by a certified SLP
- Deemed medically necessary
- Referred by appropriate medical professionals 2