Speech and Language Therapy

Speech-Language therapy is a rehabilitation service that helps individuals maximize their ability to understand language, express their thoughts and swallow safely. At Glens Falls Hospital, speech-language pathologists work with individuals of all ages in the hospital, outpatient clinics and area skilled nursing facilities. Our focus is on early identification, diagnosis, consultation, and treatment.  At Glens Falls Hospital, all of our Speech Language Pathologists have Certificates of Clinical Competence through the American Speech Language Hearing Association. This is a voluntary internationally recognized credential that demonstrates that our clinicians have achieved a high level of education and training.

Services

Services include an evaluation and treatment plan focused on the individual’s roles and responsibilities.  Treatment may include testing of speech, language, thinking or swallowing and interventions to improve communication and swallowing. Use of augmentative and alternative communication (ACC) may also be part of a treatment program. Our speech pathologist work closely with physicians, dieticians and other members of the rehab team. 

Our Speech-Language Pathologists Treat:

• Aphasia – problems speaking, understanding, reading, writing, or using numbers due to stroke or brain injury
• Apraxia – problems controlling mouth muscles to speak clearly
• Cognitive-communication disorders – problems with memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and attention
• Dysarthria – weakness or tightness in speech muscles that cause slurred or very quiet speech that may be hard to understand
• Voice disorders – changes in how a person’s voice sounds
  • Higher or lower pitch
  • Hoarseness
  • Too soft or too loud
  • Unable to make sound
• Swallowing (Dysphagia) – problems chewing or swallowing that can lead to
  • Dehydration
  • Malnutrition
  • Aspiration (food or liquid going into the airway)
  • Frequent pneumonia or respiratory infections
  • Less enjoyment of eating
  • Embarrassment when eating because of drooling or other problems
  • The need for tube feeding or other ways to get nutrition

Outpatient Speech Language Therapy Specialty Programs:

• Cognitive Rehabilitation with focus on Memory
• Neurologic Rehabilitation
• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Parkinson’s (LSVT Loud)
• Swallowing and Communication
• Voice Therapy