Communication Disorders

Speech-Language Pathology Services

After stroke or severe trauma, the ability to speak or use language is often affected. Such problems may involve reading and writing and even understanding the spoken word. Speech and language problems (aphasia) usually occur when a stroke affects the left side of the brain. Our speech pathology team is comprised of highly qualified New York State licensed speech pathologists dedicated to making your communication more effective using the most recent technologies and innovations.

Services include:

• Language and motor speech therapy
  
• Stuttering and voice therapy
  
• Swallowing or dysphagia disorders

Dysphagia Program

Dysphagia, or swallowing difficulties, may be related to strokes, head injuries, or progressive neurological diseases (i.e. MS or ALS). Swallowing difficulties challenge our lifestyles. Our team of specialists is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of dysphagia. We provide tableside assessments and modified Barium Swallow Studies in conjunction with Radiology. We will work with you to develop treatment plans and diet modifications to increase independent living and enjoyment.

Motor Speech and Language Therapy

Benedictine Hospital offers outpatient programs to identify, evaluate, and treat communication disorders. We work with patients to improve their ability to meet the demands of daily activities and the challenges of returning to the workplace.

Childhood Development Programs

Not all patients who use Benedictine’s Communication Disorders Department do so because of stroke or trauma. Communications Disorders also serves our community’s children. Early identification of developmental delays and disabilities helps infants and toddlers to receive the therapy and support they need to prepare for school.

We offer a wide range of services, including speech, occupational and physical therapy, and special education. These services can be provided, through the New York State funded early intervention and pre-school programs, free of charge to children who qualify. We also offer outpatient therapy programs through private insurance.

Early Intervention Program (birth to 3 years old)

The Early Intervention Program provides the following services at your home or in the Communication Disorders Department at the hospital:

• Screening and evaluation
  
• Play-based therapy
  
• Coordination of services
  
• Speech, occupational, and physical therapy
  
• Special educational services

Preschool Program (3 to 5 years old)

The Preschool Program provides multidisciplinary evaluations and treatment in all areas of development, including:

• Speech/language skills
  
• Cognition/learning skills
  
• Fine and gross motor skills
  
• Socio/emotional development

For more information about the Communication Disorders Department
please call 845-334-3077.