Unclear Speech: Dysarthria

Some people have difficulty moving or controlling their speech muscles after a stroke, brain injury, or due to a neurologic condition. They feel less confident and often avoid interacting with others because they are embarrassed or don’t want to be a burden.  It is frustrating for them AND their family and friends —who have trouble understanding their speech.   

What is Dysarthria?

Dysarthria is a condition where the muscles used for speech and breathing are weak or difficult to control, resulting in speech that is slurred, too slow or too fast, and difficult to understand.  There are different types of dysarthria, which can range from mild to severe. The most common causes of dysarthria are strokes and brain injuries. Dysarthria may also be a sign of a neurologic disease, such as Parkinson’s.

Speech Therapy Tacoma can help

I specialize in working with people with dysarthria. Together, we focus on improving the coordination, strength, and range of motion of speech structures, and improving self-awareness to monitor and use strategies to help your speech sound better. 

In severe cases, when oral speech skills do not improve with therapy (such as with progressive neurological diseases) use of an augmentative or alternative communication system may be necessary—this can be as simple as written words and pictures in a customized notebook or electronic devices.

Contact us
for a FREE phone consult

• We will discuss your situation

• Get all your questions answered

• Plan the next steps

There is NO COST or OBLIGATION
for this initial phone call.