Speech-Language Pathology | LifeScape

Speech-Language Pathology

Speech-language pathology helps children and adults overcome social, communication, and language barriers. Other areas of expertise include Augmentative & Alternative Communication and intensive feeding therapy.

We provide speech-language pathology services at two convenient locations—Sioux Falls and Rapid City.

We Focus On:

  • Language, including what is said (expressive language) and what is understood (receptive language)
  • Clarity of speech due to concerns with articulation (phonological disorders) and motor speech (apraxia of speech, dysarthria, etc.)
  • Issues of voice quality and resonance (voice volume, hoarseness, hyper- or hyponasal speech)
  • Smooth, fluent speech for those who experience stuttering or cluttering disorders
  • Vocabulary development
  • Feeding and swallowing skills and oral motor function (We have South Dakota's only practitioner who is Board-Certified in Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders)
  • Picky eating and food aversions
  • Social interaction skills, such as conversion, turn-taking, initiation, non-verbal communication (eye contact, facial expressions, etc.), and relationship-building
  • Reading and writing skills, ranging from decoding and encoding sounds to fluent reading with comprehension and written expression
  • Functional communication skills through alternative modes such as sign language, PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), speech-generating communication devices, and other assistive technology devices
  • Executive functioning skills, such as problem-solving, attention, and memory

Augmentative & Alternative Communication

The LIfeScape Rehabilitation Center offers thorough Augmentative & Alternative Communication and computer access evaluations using the latest technology. We serve children and adults with any communication challenges, including those with Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, Huntington's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, and strokes. Our clinic features the area’s most experienced team of communication specialists, consisting of speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists.

What the Evaluation Consists of:

  • Prior to the evaluation, a questionnaire is sent out, and test scores, videos, and other information is requested to help determine the most appropriate devices and systems to consider during the evaluation
  • To make communication efficient and effective, the speech-language pathologist evaluates the patient to determine the feature he or she needs and then helps to find the AAC method that fits that criteria
  • Initial evaluation determines which types of communication methods would be appropriate. These methods range from simple picture symbol or word board devices, to low-tech speech generating devices, and high-tech devices with virtually unlimited speech output vocabulary.
  • The individual’s access methods are also assessed as part of the communication device trial. Access methods range from direct finger access to eye-gaze or switch access using nearly any body movement.
  • Computer access evaluation can occur as part of the augmentative communication evaluation or as a separate evaluation. The computer specialist selects from a wide array of adapted software and hardware to meet the computing needs of the individual. The access methods range from adapted keyboards and mouse devices to voice activation, switch access, or direct access using state-of-the-art methods that can track head or eye movement.
  • Recommendations are documented as part of a written comprehensive report based on clinical findings

Interested in Learning More?

Learn more about how we can help by calling us at 605-444-9700. Or, fill out a short form with your information and we’ll be in touch with you shortly.

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