Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) address communication problems in people of all ages. A speech therapist assesses and treats communication disorders, including:

• Hearing and speech disorders

• Language development disorders

• Stuttering

• Feeding

• Social skills
   

Speech therapy may take place in a small group or one-on-one, depending on the speech disorder. Exercises and activities vary depending upon the child’s disorder, age, and needs. SLPs collaborate with other therapists and teachers to accelerate skill development in all environments.
 

During speech therapy for children, the SLP may:

• Use books, pictures, communication devices, and other objects as part of language intervention, which can help stimulate language development

• Model correct sounds and syllables for a child during age-appropriate play to teach the child how to make certain sounds

• Educate parents and children about how to support speech therapy at home by providing strategies and homework

Occupational therapy (OT) helps people of all ages with physical, sensory, or cognitive difficulties. Occupational therapists help with barriers that hinder a person's emotional, social, and physical needs. They do this through everyday activities, exercises, and collaboration with other types of therapies.
 

Benefits:

• Fine motor skills (small-muscle movements made with the hands, fingers, and toes, such as grasping)

• Visual-perceptual skills

• Cognitive (thinking) skills

• Sensory-processing skills
   

Therapists evaluate each student and develop an individual plan. They utilize sensory integration strategies, sensory diets, and Learning Without Tears. When appropriate, occupational therapy may be combined with other treatments, including speech and neurologic music therapy.

Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) is an evidence-based treatment model that uses standardized, research-based techniques to treat the brain using specific elements of music such as rhythm, melody, dynamics, tempo, etc. Neurologic Music Therapists are trained in the neuroscience of music perception, production, and cognition. The Neurologic Music Therapist uses standardized techniques to achieve non-musical goals such as speech, physical movement, awareness, and other functional abilities.

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This therapy provides individualized activities to reinforce goals, including on-task behaviors, communication skills, socialization skills, fine and gross motor skills, eye contact, relaxation, texture and sound sensitivity, and leisure training.

 

NMT activities include:

• Singing

• Rhythmic movements

• Playing instruments

 

The neuro-music therapy room has pianos, drums, tone chimes, and guitars.