SPEECH THERAPY
LINDA SCHWARTZ, M.A., C.C.C.
Virtual/ In-Person Speech-Language Therapy-Children & Adults
Expert Witness
Speech-Language Pathology
Serving Santa Barbara In-Person & Virtually; All Areas of California Virtually
Speech and Language Delays and Disorders
Speech-Language Pathology
Speech-language pathology refers to delays or disorders in the areas of speech, language, voice or swallowing.
- Speech disorders or delays may include difficulty producing speech sounds correctly, problems with fluency (stuttering) and motor speech disorders such as dysarthria and apraxia of speech.
- Language disorders or delays may include difficulties with understanding information (receptive language), difficulties with verbal expression of thoughts and ideas, or difficulties with the social use of language.
- Voice disorders may include problems related to hoarseness, pitch, loudness and tone.
- Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) can relate to difficulties in the oral or pharyngeal phase of swallowing.
Speech-Language Pathologists (sometimes referred to informally as speech therapists) assess and treat speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Speech-language pathologists also work with individuals who do not have delays or disorders, but wish to improve aspects of their communication skills.
Speech-Language Pathologists have completed a master’s degree in their field and have passed a national examination in speech-language pathology. Speech-language pathologists hold a state license to practice speech-language pathology and some hold a Certificate of Clinical Competence (C.C.C.) from the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).