Speech/Articulation

Swallowing

Speech Clarity/Articulation

We design programs to correct specific sounds as well as to improve overall speech intelligibility. Individualized articulation programs are developed to help with:

  • Persistent speech errors (e.g., lisp, /r/ /s/ /l/ errors)
  • Phonological disorders (sound simplification patterns)
  • Apraxia/Dyspraxia
  • Oral motor skills
  • Dysarthria
  • Tongue thrust

Language

We provide language therapy to clients of all ages. Our goal is to increase an individual's understanding and use of language. Individual and group programs are available to work on:

  • Listening/following directions
  • Vocabulary/concept development
  • Cognitive skills (memory, sequencing)
  • Communication for daily living
  • Asking/answering questions
  • Understanding stories/conversation
  • Grammar/sentence structure
Adult Language Groups
Adult language groups are offered to promote functional skills and social communication with others. These groups provide a comfortable environment that facilitates carryover within a group setting, for example: post-stroke clients practice word-finding strategies and conversational skills while socializing and talking about community events. Each group is unique and based on the needs of the individual members.

Communicative Effectiveness
We offer communicative effectiveness programs for the working professional. Our training programs focus on communicating with colleagues and managers in the work environment as well as understanding language styles and cultural differences. Programs are also available to boost self-confidence and improve organization for business presentations. Our trainers focus on preparation, content organization, body language and speaking styles. These programs may be implemented in the client's work setting or at our offices.

Voice

We provide therapy activities to establish and maintain good vocal hygiene for:

  • Vocal nodules and other vocal lesions
  • Inappropriate loudness/rhythm/rate/pitch
  • Harsh/weak/breathy/nasal vocal quality
  • Gender-related voice and communication
Examination by an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist may be required before voice therapy can proceed.

Dysphagia (Swallowing)
Peninsula Associates' staff demonstrate swallowing therapy exercises and techniques to clients, family members and caretakers. Our clinicians also provide consultation on modified consistency meals and meeting a client's nutritional needs. Therapy may be provided in the home, at a resident facility or in our offices.

Hearing Impairment

Peninsula Associates provides communication services for individuals with hearing impairment and deafness. Many of our clinicians have experience with:

  • Hearing aids and cochlear implants
  • Aural rehabilitation
  • Speech reading
  • Speech/voice training
  • Sign language
  • Total communication
  • Deaf Culture

Fluency (Stuttering)
We utilize a variety of approaches in treating the adult stutterer to promote fluent/controlled speech and to improve self-confidence. Peninsula Associates offers support and practice groups that provide a comfortable environment to practice techniques during role-playing, script reading or sharing everyday experiences. We also strongly encourage participation in local and national stuttering self-help support organizations.

Accent Modification
Peninsula Associates' clinicians are trained and certified in specialized accent modification programs. These programs focus on optimizing the communication skills of foreign-born speakers, understanding cultural differences and improving both personal and public speaking skills. Individual and group sessions are available. Most programs are accompanied by written and audio taped home activities. Services may be provided at our offices or on-site.