Speech Language Pathology - Adult Services

There are many reasons why an adult would seek out the services of a Speech-Language Pathologist. We work with adults in acute and long-term care as well as on an outpatient basis . Adults can self-refer to our services or be referred by a medical professional or a family member. Speech-Language Pathologists will work with adults on:

Communication Abilities: Can include understanding what others are saying, being able to say what you want to say, using alternative measures to communicate your message, and improving clarity of speech so that it is understood.
Voice disorders: Can include problem with pitch, volume, tone, and other qualities of voice.
Fluency (stuttering): The interruption in the flow of speech.
Dysphagia (swallowing difficulties): Can include difficulties with eating foods or drinking liquids.

Adult Services:

If you would like to make a referral, you can do so by clicking the link below.

Referrals are accepted from any member of the healthcare team, family, or the individual.
If you would like to make a referral click on the link below or
call: (709) 256-5458 for our Gander clinic or (709) 292-2169 for our Grand Falls-Windsor clinic.

Speech-Language Pathology Outpatient Referral Form

Communication

Communication can be impacted by a number of conditions, and a Speech-Language Pathologist can work with individuals to make improvements in their ability to understand or create messages to others. Speech-Language Pathologists work with people who have:

Aphasia, an acquired disorder impacting communication that often happens following a stroke or head injury.
A degenerative condition that impacts communication (e.g., dementia, ALS, Parkinson's)
Dysarthria, is a speech disorder caused by muscle weakness that often causes slurred or slow speech that can be difficult to understand.

Extra information is available by clicking on links below.

Please click here if you would like to make a referral.

Additional resources:

CH-SLP 112 Aphasia Talking Tips - Caregiver

CH-SLP 113 Aphasia Talking Tips - Client

CH-SLP 114 Conversation partners dysarthria

CH-SLP 115 Conversation partners dysarthria client

CH-SLP 131 Parkinson’s Disease Speech

CH-SLP 132 Dementia and Communication

Aphasia.org

Aphasia.ca

Voice

Voice disorders occur when voice quality, pitch, and loudness differ or are inappropriate for a person’s age, gender or cultural background. Speech-Language Pathologists are experts on vocal function and production and provide both assessment and treatment of voice disorders. If you have a voice disorder, Speech-Language Pathologists will work with you to help you learn to use your voice more effectively and efficiently.

If you have had a change in your vocal function or you have any concerns about your voice it is important to have an assessment to ensure proper treatment.

Extra information is available by clicking on links below.

Please click here if you would like to make a referral.

Additional resources:

CH-SLP 120 Voice and Vocal Hygiene for Adults

CH-SLP 118 Taking Care of your Child’s Voice

Fluency

Fluency Disorder (Stuttering) is persistent interruptions in the flow of speaking. People who stutter may repeat sounds, syllables, words, and phrases, prolong specific sounds, or block sounds. It may also be accompanied by physical and mental tension, avoidance of situations where speaking is expected, and even avoidance of speech altogether. Speech-Language Pathologists play a central role in the screening, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of fluency disorders and will provide tools and supports to promote fluent speech.

Stuttering can begin from a young age, or could be acquired in adulthood. If you have a sudden onset of stuttering reach out to your medical team including your family physician.

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador has a Stuttering Association to provide support and resources to people who stutter.

Please click here if you would like to make a referral.

Extra information is available by clicking on links below.

Additional resources:

Newfoundland Stuttering Association

Swallowing

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, occurs when someone has problems swallowing certain foods or liquids or cannot swallow at all. Signs of dysphagia include:

Coughing or choking when eating or drinking
Difficulty clearing food from the mouth
Taking extra time or effort to eat and/or drink
Bringing food back up

Occasional difficulty with swallowing, such as eating too fast or not chewing your food well enough, usually is not cause for concern. However, persistent dysphagia can be a serious medical condition requiring treatment. Speech-Language Pathologists are trained experts in assessing, managing, and treating dysphagia. If you, or someone you know, is having difficulty swallowing it is important to get an assessment by a Speech-Language Pathologist to determine the best course of action.

Extra information is available by clicking on links below.

Please click here if you would like to make a referral.