Compass Blog #21_By Maeve J
Last month we wrote an article entitled, “What is Speech Therapy?”, and we summed up
Speech Therapy as, “the assessment and treatment of communication problems and speech
disorders. It is performed by speech-language pathologists (SLPs), which are often referred to
as speech therapists.” (Healthline).
One of those Speech Language Pathologists at Compass Community Health has more
to say on the topic! We interviewed her to get an inside look into her experience working in
Speech Therapy. Here is what she had to say.
1. What is Speech Therapy?
Our scope of practice as speech language pathologists is just too broad to condense into a
“nutshell”. As SLP’s we can treat from baby to adults. Here at Compass, we focus our treatment
on pediatrics. We work with kids to help them communicate by improving speech and language
skills as they relate to:
- Speech sounds/articulation
- Receptive language
- Expressive language
- Fluency/stuttering
- Social communication
2. What’s your favorite area to address?
I enjoy working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Each child, adolescent or adult is a
unique individual with wonderful strengths, and it is sometimes incredibly challengingbut also
very satisfying to see that individual reach his/her potential.
3. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from what you do?
There are many lessons that I have learned over the years. Patience is incredibly important
when working with children. I have learned to never underestimate the power of play. I remind
myself often that caregivers know their child better than anyone so it is incredibly important that I listen so I can hear what they have to say. I have learned that encouraging and supporting
caregivers is just as important as providing therapy for their child.
4. What do you want others to know about Speech Therapy at Compass?
At Compass, we strive to incorporate families into the therapy process, amd we support and
encourage them on their journey.
Compass Community Health’s Speech Therapy services are strongly tied to their
Pediatric Occupational Therapy services as well. Check out our article, “What is OT?”.
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Your health is important. Compass Community Health is here to help.
Reach out today!
-Email: info@compasscommunityhealth.org,
-Message us on Facebook @ Compass Community Health
-Call: 740-355-7102
-Address: 1634 11th St, Portsmouth, OH 45662