Our Services
Children Services (up to 18 years old)
Speech Sounds Disorders (SSD)
Speech sound disorders in children encompass a range of difficulties related to the production of speech sounds.
Articulation disorders specifically involve challenges in forming individual sounds impacting clarity in pronunciation.
Phonological processes refer to patterns of errors in organizing and using speech sounds within a language, impacting overall intelligibility.
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder where the messages from the brain to the jaw, lips and tongue interrupt coordination of the precise movements needed for speech. Unlike articulation disorders, CAS involves difficulty planning and executing the complex sequences of movements required for accurate speech production.
Early identification and intervention play a crucial role in addressing SSDs, and promoting effective speech, language, and literacy development in children. Treatment approaches often include speech therapy, tailored to the specific needs and challenges presented by each child.
Language Delay (Late Language Emergence, Late Talker)
Language delay in children refers to a delay in the development of language skills compared to their peers. Late language emergence and late talker are terms used to describe specific aspects of this delay.
Late language emergence typically refers to a situation where a child exhibits delayed language milestones in the early years of development, often noticeable by the age of two. On the other hand, a late talker specifically refers to a child who has a limited vocabulary or difficulty forming sentences despite reaching the expected age for language development.
Children with LLE may have expressive language delays only, or they may have mixed expressive and receptive delays. Children with expressive delays show delayed vocabulary acquisition and often show delayed development of sentence structure and articulation. Children with mixed expressive and receptive language delays show delays in oral language production and in language comprehension.
Early intervention through speech and language therapy has shown effectiveness in addressing language delays. Therapy may include activities to improve vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills. Parental involvement is crucial, as practicing language-building exercises at home reinforces the progress achieved during therapy sessions.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to be aware of developmental milestones and seek professional guidance if they suspect language delays in their child. Timely intervention can significantly enhance a child’s language skills and overall communication abilities.
Language-Based Learning Disability (LBLD)
A language-based learning disability (LBLD) is a neurological condition that affects a person’s ability to understand, use, and process language. In children or adolescents, LBLD can significantly impact various aspects of their academic performance.
In terms of schooling, individuals with LBLD may struggle with tasks that involve language, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. They might face challenges in understanding and following verbal instructions, leading to difficulties in classroom participation and comprehension.
Academically, LBLD can impede progress in subjects that heavily rely on language skills, like reading and writing. Reading difficulties often manifest as slow and inaccurate decoding, making it challenging for students to grasp the meaning of written text. Writing may be affected by issues with spelling, grammar, and organizing thoughts coherently.
In the classroom, students with LBLD may experience frustration and anxiety, impacting their self-esteem. Teachers play a crucial role in identifying and supporting these students through targeted interventions and accommodations. Specialized instruction, such as multisensory approaches to reading and writing, can be beneficial.
Overall, understanding and addressing language-based learning disabilities early on is essential for providing tailored support and ensuring that affected children and adolescents can navigate the academic challenges they face.
Neurodiversity Affirming Services for Autism
Neurodiversity-affirming speech therapy is an approach that embraces and acknowledges the strengths, interests, and unique communication styles of neurodivergent individuals.
In the past, speech and language therapy for autistic or neurodiverse individuals focused on “fixing” the client to conform to neurotypical norms. We know better now, so we do better!
We aim to create a safe, fun and supportive environment to develop supports, strategies, and skills focusing on their unique neurotype, preferences, values, and goals. We help build on strengths, promote self-advocacy and enhance communication skills.
We also offer Gestalt Language Processor (GLP) therapy using the Natural Language Acquisition Framework. All of our therapists have taken additional education and training in this area.
Parent involvement is pivotal by actively participating in the planning and implementation of interventions.
Literacy
Literacy assessment and therapy play a crucial role in identifying and addressing language-based reading and writing difficulties.
By assessing literacy skills, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can identify specific challenges individuals may face, such as difficulties in decoding, comprehension, or fluency. Phonemic awareness, involving the understanding of sound-symbol relationships, serves as a fundamental building block for literacy. Working on these skills early can significantly impact a child’s overall academic success.
The collaborative approach between a teacher and an SLP enhances the effectiveness of literacy intervention. Teachers provide classroom context and curriculum knowledge, while SLPs contribute expertise in language development and communication disorders. This collaboration allows for a holistic understanding of a student’s challenges and ensures targeted interventions that align with both academic and communication goals. This is why Mountain Speech Language Services created the “Let’s Read” summer camp
Addressing literacy challenges early not only supports academic achievement but also promotes communication skills, social interactions, and overall confidence. The combination of specialized assessment, targeted therapy, and collaborative efforts between educators and SLPs creates a comprehensive approach to literacy development, fostering a strong foundation for a lifetime of successful learning.
Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC)
Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) services encompass a range of strategies and tools designed to support individuals with communication needs. These services aim to enhance communication through low-tech or high-tech communication aids.
AAC methods include low-tech options may include communication boards with picture symbols, allowing individuals to convey messages by pointing or gesturing
While high-tech solutions involve electronic devices, such as speech-generating devices or communication apps on tablets, enabling users to produce synthesized speech.
Speech-language pathologists assess clients to determine the most suitable AAC approach based on their needs and abilities. Therapy services can be provided by an SLP or CDA. AAC services empower individuals to communicate effectively, fostering independence and social interaction for those with diverse communication abilities.
Adult Services (18 years old +)
Language - Aphasia
Aphasia assessment, provided by an SLP, plays a crucial role in supporting adults affected by this language disorder often resulting from a stroke or brain injury. Assessment involves evaluating language skills, understanding the specific challenges a person faces in their daily lives, and determining the best course of therapeutic intervention.
Therapy, provided by an SLP or CDA, focuses on improving communication abilities, such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Techniques may include targeted exercises, communication strategies, and technology-assisted interventions. The importance of this therapy lies in its potential to significantly enhance an individual’s ability to communicate, thereby fostering independence and social participation.
Effective aphasia therapy can lead to notable improvements in language skills and overall quality of life for adults with aphasia. It not only addresses linguistic deficits but also helps individuals adapt
and find alternative means of expression.
Speech - Dysarthria/Apraxia
In the assessment phase, SLPs evaluate the nature and severity of the speech disorders, considering factors like muscle weakness (dysarthria) or motor planning difficulties (apraxia).
For dysarthria, treatment often includes exercises to strengthen oral muscles, improve breath support, and enhance coordination for clearer speech. SLPs and/or CDAs may employ techniques like respiratory exercises, articulation exercises, and prosody training to address specific aspects of dysarthric speech.
In apraxia treatment, provided by SLPs or CDAs, the focus is on retraining the motor planning and coordination of speech movements.
The effectiveness of treatment methods varies based on the individual’s specific condition and severity. Consistent, individualized therapy plans designed by SLPs are crucial for success. Intensive and repetitive practice, often incorporating technology and visual aids, contributes to improved speech intelligibility and communication for individuals recovering from dysarthria and apraxia post-stroke or brain injury. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan ensure ongoing progress.
Characteristics of Dysarthria in Adults
1. Articulation Difficulties:** Impaired coordination of muscles involved in speech results in unclear articulation.
2. Slurred Speech:** Pronunciation may sound slurred, making it challenging for others to understand.
3. Muscle Weakness or Paralysis:** Weakness in the muscles used for speech, including those controlling the lips, tongue, and vocal cords.
4. Variable Speech Quality:** Speech may fluctuate in clarity and strength depending on fatigue and other factors.
5. Slow or Rapid Speech:** Dysarthria can lead to speech that is either too slow or too fast.
6. Breathing Irregularities:** Difficulty controlling breath support for speech, impacting overall vocal quality.
7. Hypernasality or Hyponasality:** Altered nasal resonance, with speech sounding either too nasal or insufficiently nasal.
Characteristics of Apraxia in Adults:
1. Inconsistent Errors:** Difficulty with consistent sound errors, even on the same word in different attempts.
2. Groping Movements:** Individuals may exhibit groping or trial-and-error movements while attempting speech.
3. Difficulty Initiating Speech:** Struggles to initiate and sequence speech sounds, resulting in hesitations.
4. Articulatory Inaccuracy:** Inaccurate production of speech sounds, with errors in timing and placement.
5. Greater Difficulty with Longer Words or Phrases:** Challenges become more pronounced with longer and more complex utterances.
6. Automatic vs. Volitional Speech:** Individuals may have less difficulty with automatic, well-practiced phrases than with novel or volitional speech.
7. Awareness of Errors:** Some individuals with apraxia are aware of their speech errors, which can be frustrating for them.
Cognitive-Communication Disorders
Cognitive communication disorders resulting from brain injury or stroke can significantly impact various aspects of communication. These disorders may manifest as difficulties in attention, memory, problem-solving, social communication, and overall cognitive-linguistic function.
The speech-language pathologist (SLP) plays a pivotal role in assessing and treating cognitive communication disorders. In the assessment phase, the SLP evaluates the individual’s cognitive- inguistic abilities, identifying specific areas of impairment. In cases of right hemisphere stroke, unique challenges may include difficulties with social skills, understanding non-literal language, and interpreting social cues.
Treatment, provided by an SLP or CDA, involves individualized plans targeting cognitive-communication deficits. Interventions may include cognitive exercises, memory strategies, social communication training, and pragmatic language therapy. Technology and compensatory strategies are often incorporated to facilitate communication in real-life situations.
The effectiveness of treatment can be profound, enhancing an individual’s ability to communicate and participate in various life domains. Successful intervention can contribute to a smoother return to work, school, and community participation. Strategies learned in therapy empower individuals to navigate social interactions, manage daily tasks, and engage effectively in their personal and professional lives post-injury or stroke. Ongoing collaboration between the SLP, individual, and relevant support networks is essential for sustained progress and successful reintegration into daily life.
Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia - Dis-fay-ja)
Dysphagia, a swallowing disorder, can impact the oral, pharyngeal, and/or esophageal phases of swallowing. Oral dysphagia involves challenges in chewing and moving food in the mouth, pharyngeal ysphagia pertains to difficulties in the throat during swallowing, and esophageal dysphagia relates to issues in the passage of food through the esophagus.
The speech-language pathologist (SLP) plays a crucial role in the assessment and treatment of dysphagia. In assessment, the SLP evaluates the individual’s ability to swallow, identifying specific difficulties and risks. Treatment strategies vary based on the type and severity of dysphagia and may include exercises to improve muscle strength, swallowing techniques, and dietary modifications.
Collaboration with other professionals such as Registered Dietitians, gastroenterologists (GI) and Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists is essential, particularly for complex cases. Instrumental assessments, like videofluoroscopic swallow studies or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluations, may be conducted in collaboration with these specialists to provide a more detailed understanding of the swallowing process.
Ensuring safe swallowing is paramount for an individual’s quality of life. The ability to eat and drink safely not only maintains proper nutrition/hydration but also contributes to social engagement and overall well-being.
Teletherapy
Teletherapy in speech-language pathology is a highly recommended model of intervention that has proven to be quite successful. It allows for speech and language services, such as assessments, and therapy sessions to be conducted virtually from anywhere in Ontario, right from the comfort of your own home.
This approach offers numerous benefits for clients, including increased accessibility, flexibility in scheduling, and the ability to receive high-quality services from qualified professionals without the need for travel. Additionally, teletherapy facilitates consistent communication between the therapist and client, which can lead to more effective outcomes in addressing speech and language disorders.
Overall, teletherapy practices in speech-language pathology provide a convenient and effective way for individuals to receive the support they need to improve their communication skills.
Tutoring Services
Unlock academic success with our tutoring services for grades 1-6! Led by our education consultant & certified Ontario elementary teacher with over 20 years of experience, our sessions focus on reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Key Features:
- Certified Teacher: Benefit from the expertise of a seasoned Ontario elementary teacher with a proven track record of success in educating young learners.
- Comprehensive Subjects: Covering reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, our tutoring addresses various academic needs.
- Individualized Approach: Tailored lessons cater to each student’s unique learning style and areas of improvement, fostering a personalized and effective learning experience.
- Flexible Locations: Choose the setting that suits you best – sessions can be held in our comfortable office located in Upper Hamilton, in-home in Grimsby, Stoney Creek or Hamilton, or virtually for convenience.
- Competitive Rates: Quality education doesn’t have to break the bank.
Rate: $50/hour
Whether your child needs extra support in a specific subject or seeks enrichment, our tutoring services aim to empower young learners for academic excellence. Contact us to schedule sessions that fit your schedule and contribute to your child’s educational journey.
Social Skills Group Therapy
Mountain Speech-Language Services offers a dynamic Social Skills Group Therapy Program tailored for children aged 6 to 10 years old. Led by a certified elementary school teacher, speech-language pathologist, and a communication disorders assistant, each group comprises 3 to 4 children, ensuring personalized attention.
Our program integrates speech and language development, cognitive growth, and social skills acquisition, aligning with children’s developmental stages and academic
requirements. Recognizing the pivotal role of social communication in academic success, we emphasize emotional recognition, self-regulation, behavior management, And perspective-taking.
Topics covered span foundational skills such as playing, following rules, and managing impulses, to advanced concepts including conversation proficiency, nonverbal
communication interpretation, and situational awareness. Additionally, we address self-esteem, problem-solving, and friendship building, with optional discussions on hygiene’s impact on social interactions.
Our inclusive approach welcomes children with diverse learning needs, including autism, ADHD, And learning disabilities. Curriculum modifications ensure every child’s meaningful participation. The program runs for eight weeks at the cost of $595, with flexible scheduling to accommodate families’ needs. Join us in empowering your child’s social competence and academic journey.