Speech/Articulation

Fluency (Stuttering)


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

Fluency (Stuttering)

We utilize a variety of approaches in treating both the child and adult stutterer to promote fluent/controlled speech and improve self-confidence. For younger children, clinicians often provide indirect modeling of fluency-shaping strategies as well as parent counseling. 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 encourage participation in motivation and local stuttering self-help support organizations.

References:

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
  • Relating experiences/everyday conversations

In addition to verbal language, we use any and all strategies to “jump start” language. Many clinicians are knowledgeable and trained in the use of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), schedule boards, communication books and augmentative-alternative communication devices. Some clinicians use American Sign Language or Signing Exact English. Bilingual/bicultural staff members provide all bilingual assessment and treatment.

Study Skills

We offer programs that build and enhance academic skills to increase school success. Special summer programs are available to maintain and improve skills. Areas of specialty include:

  • Attention focus and information processing
  • Reading and writing readiness
  • Phonemic awareness
  • Visualizing and verbalizing
  • Organization and study skills
  • Textbook skills
  • Written language

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

Social Language Groups for Children

Peninsula Associates was the first speech-language clinic in northern California to design and implement pragmatic, social language groups for children of all ages.

Social Language/Preschool Readiness Groups For Toddlers and Preschoolers

Therapy focuses on promoting:
  • Speech clarity
  • Turn-taking
  • Listening skills
  • Interactive play

Social Language Groups for School Age Children

New behaviors are taught through structured lessons, role-playing, peer discussion and home assignments. Examples of lessons might include:
  • Starting and ending conversations
  • Staying on topic/switching topics
  • Expressing feelings
  • Asking for/accepting help
  • Interpreting body language
  • Starting and maintaining friendships

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
Examination by an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist may be required before voice therapy can proceed.