Assessment begins with a detailed interview of individuals with communication, speech/language disorders, and/or their families. This process gives a better understanding of the nature and severity of the communication difficulties. Subsequently, assessment is carried out through observations, standardized or non-standardized tests, and questionnaires. Finally, the assessment results are discussed with the individuals and their families.
The university clinic offers assessments for various speech disorders, including but not limited to:
- Phonological disorders
- Specific language impairment
- Auditory processing disorder
- Stuttering
- Voice disorders
- Aphasia
- Dysarthria
Early Childhood (Ages up to 5 years and 11 months)
The assessments for speech disorders in early childhood are determined through discussion and agreement with the family. Topics covered in the discussion include:
- Difficulty in understanding speech
- Expressive difficulties
- Lack of participation in group activities such as story time
- Confusion and expressive anxiety
- Lack of concentration when given instructions or asked for oral or written responses
School Age (Ages 6-18 years)
In this age group, the assessment focuses on:
- Concerns regarding articulation and language
- Difficulties in reading/writing (with an emphasis on linguistic aspects of writing)
Adults
For individuals with medical diagnoses, different tests or questionnaires are used depending on the nature of the problem. The assessment will lead to the creation of an individualized intervention plan. Indicative medical diagnoses include stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, motor neuron disease, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, stuttering, etc. Speech therapy diagnoses include aphasia, apraxia, dysarthria, etc.
Each assessment is different but may include the following:
- Language comprehension
- Articulation and linguistic expression
- Word-finding difficulties
- Voice difficulties
- Reading and writing skills
- Memory, attention, and problem-solving
- Accent modification
- Communication effectiveness for personal/professional reasons