Signs And Symptoms
Individuals who have a speech or language disorder often perceive the sounds around them as if they’re miles away. This often causes them to be frequently frustrated, angry, withdrawn, and… miserable.
At CTS Dallas, our therapists have a unique understanding of the underlying causes of these puzzling behaviors and reactions. We employ cross-disciplinary strategies to address root issues in ways that honor the dignity of the individual. And creates a place of calm safety where they can more to develop the skills they need.
If you suspect your child, or someone you care about, has a speech or language problem, here are the signs and symptoms to look for:
Signs and Symptoms Speech and Language Challenges
In Children:
- Non-verbal at age two
- Difficulty following spoken directions
- Repeating words and phrases without understanding them (called echolalia or “scripting”)
- Jumbled or mumbled speech – accompanied by normal vocal tone and gestures or in robotic monotone voice and rhythm
- Problems retrieving words – difficulty naming objects or talking in circles around subjects without appropriate vocabulary
- Misnaming items
- Difficulty understanding and using the rules of grammar
- Difficulty with word meanings
- Difficulty speaking clearly
In Teens & Adults
- Misunderstanding words in conversations
- Word retrieval difficulties – misnaming objects or can’t recall labels of familiar objects
- Misusing words in conversation
- Mispronouncing words
- Mumbling so that others have difficulty understanding
- Academic performance lagging behind intellectual capabilities
- Sleepiness when reading or listening to others
- Overreacting to sudden noises or extremely bothered by noise
- Trouble staying focused when listening or reading
- Difficulty following more than two or more oral directions
- Chronic hoarseness or nasal voice problems
- Pushing their tongue between the teeth while speaking or swallowing (tongue-thrust)
- Trouble organizing thoughts, ideas, making plans or problem solving
- Stumbling, repeating or blocking sounds or words from the natural flow of speech (stuttering)
The good news is that most speech and language disorders are treatable. The key to success is the right evaluation and a treatment plan that’s designed specifically for each individual’s needs.
Why CTS Dallas Is Unique
What makes our strategies unique is that we incorporate strategies that address the underlying causes that inhibit the development of effective communication. These include auditory and language processing, executive function, primitive reflexes, motor planning, and coordination.
Combining a unique cross-disciplinary method, we combine evidence-based approaches in speech therapy along with elements gleaned from other neuro-development, brain activating, and behavioral disciplines.
Our founder, Jane Shook, has cross-trained in numerous disciplines to derive innovative and highly effective approaches to treatment. At CTS Dallas we adhere to Jane’s credo:
A wise teacher makes learning fun!