Acquired Apraxia Of Speech Treatment In Burlington
What Is Apraxia of Speech?
Acquired Apraxia of Speech (AOS) is a motor speech disorder that affects how the brain plans and coordinates the movements needed for clear speech.
It is most often caused by neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, or progressive diseases that impact the brain.
Unlike speech problems caused by muscle weakness, AOS is not about strength—it’s about planning. The brain knows what it wants to say, but has difficulty organizing the precise movements of the lips, tongue, and jaw to say it clearly.
People with apraxia of speech may:
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Have trouble starting words or sounds
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Speak with inconsistent errors (the same word may come out differently each time)
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Appear to “search” for the right mouth movements
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Speak more slowly or with effort
At Pillars of Wellness in Burlington, our speech-language pathologists assess apraxia of speech and provide structured, evidence-based treatment to help improve clarity, coordination, and confidence in communication.
This may include guided practice, repetition, and strategies to support more accurate and consistent speech. Learn more about our speech therapy services.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of apraxia of speech vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:
Difficulty producing or imitating sounds
Saying sounds the wrong way
Adding new sounds
Leaving sounds out
Inconsistent speech sounds
Speaking more slowly
Difficulty saying any sounds at all
A comprehensive assessment by a speech-language pathologist is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate intervention.
What are the benefits of early intervention for apraxia of speech?
Early identification and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with AOS (apraxia of speech). Intervention initiated soon after symptom onset can support:
- 5Improved speech clarity and effectiveness
- 5Reduced frustration during conversation
- 5Greater confidence in communication
- 5Better adaptation to communication challenges
A speech-language pathologist can work with individuals and their families to develop strategies that support communication and promote participation in daily activities.
Goals of Apraxia of Speech Treatment
Speech-language pathologists (SLP’s) develop individualized treatment plans to address the communication needs of adults with AOS. The primary objective is to improve the clarity and effectiveness of spoken communication in daily life. Depending on the nature and progression of the disorder, treatment may be:
- Restorative, aiming to improve speech production and coordination.
- Compensatory, focusing on strategies and tools when speech is limited.
- Maintenance-focused to help preserve existing communication abilities for as long as possible.
Components of Apraxia of Speech Treatment
When creating a treatment plan for apraxia of speech in adults, speech-language pathologists typically consider the following components:
Assessment
An SLP begins with a thorough evaluation to understand the individual’s speech abilities and communication needs. Assessment typically includes:
- Speech sound production and sequencing
- Motor planning skills
- Co-existing conditions (e.g., aphasia)
- Functional communication across different settings
Standardized tools and observational methods are used to guide diagnosis and treatment planning.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Therapy approaches are selected based on current research and individual needs. Common treatment methods include:
- Sound Production Treatment (SPT)
- Integral Stimulation Techniques: Emphasizing a “listen, watch, and say it with me”
- Tactile, visual, and auditory cues: Used to facilitate correct placement and timing of speech movements.
Other treatment approaches can include augmentative and alternative communication (ACC). This type of therapy helps patients develop alternate ways to communicate such as using gestures and facial expressions or using ACC devices.
By taking into account all these components when creating a treatment plan for apraxia of speech in adults, speech-language pathologists can help their patients communicate more effectively and accurately. With the right treatment and support, people with apraxia of speech can make great progress in improving their communication skills and quality of life.
Our clinic provides apraxia of speech treatment in Burlington if you live in the area.
Why choose Pillars of Wellness For Apraxia of Speech in Burlington?
Apraxia of speech is a complex and often misunderstood condition. With the right assessment, guidance, and consistent therapy, many individuals can make meaningful progress in their communication and overall quality of life.
At Pillars of Wellness in Burlington, our speech-language pathologists provide structured, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs. Treatment focuses on improving speech planning, coordination, and clarity through guided practice and repetition.
Apraxia of speech is often linked to other neurological or speech conditions. Our team also supports individuals who may benefit from speech therapy for traumatic brain injury, as well as those experiencing dysarthria or dysphagia. This allows us to provide a more complete and coordinated approach to care.
We understand that communication challenges can affect confidence, independence, and daily interactions. Our goal is to provide clear guidance, practical strategies, and compassionate support every step of the way.
If you have questions or would like to book an assessment, our team is here to help.
Before Your Visit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is apraxia of speech?
Apraxia of speech is a motor speech disorder that makes it hard to plan and coordinate the movements needed for clear speech — even though the muscles themselves are not weak. Speech sounds may be distorted, inconsistent, or slow.
What causes apraxia of speech?
It often results from neurological events like stroke, brain injury, or progressive neurological conditions, and can also occur in children as a developmental disorder.
How is it treated?
A speech‑language pathologist (SLP) provides individualized therapy to improve motor planning and production of speech sounds using research‑based techniques and practice.
What are the benefits of treatment?
Early and ongoing therapy can help improve speech clarity, reduce frustration, and increase confidence in communication.
Who should I contact to start treatment?
Contact the clinic to book an assessment with a qualified SLP — they’ll evaluate speech abilities and develop a tailored treatment plan.
