Speech Sound Disorders and Pediatric Motor Speech Disorders

“Speech sound disorders (SSD)” is an umbrella term referring to any combination of difficulties with perception, motor production and/or the phonological representation of speech sounds and speech segments that impact speech intelligibility. An SSD can have a negative effect on an individual’s academic, social and/or occupational life secondary to reduced intelligibility or the ability to be understood.

Our clinic provides comprehensive speech evaluations and therapy to clients of all ages, with a primary focus on pediatric speech sound disorders (SSDs) and motor speech disorders. 

 

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Common Causes and Examples of Speech Sound Disorders

  • Developmental disorders (autism)
  • Genetic disorders (Down syndrome)
  • Hearing loss or frequent ear infections
  • Neurological disorders (cerebral palsy)
  • Structural disorders (cleft palate)
  • Idiopathic (cause unknown)

 


Treatment Options

The Speech and Hearing Center provides both individual and group therapy for speech motor disorders on a weekly basis. Regardless of the approach adopted, therapy will be evidence-based, functional and tailored to the needs of the client.

In addition to sessions, the center offers speech therapy intensives. The intensives have an admissions process and are typically scheduled 3–6 months in advance. The center also intermittently offers summer camps that provide individual and group speech therapy sessions for children. Please contact Jodi Kumar for more information.
 


Clinician in This Area

Jodi N. Kumar

Clinical Supervisor, Adjunct Faculty