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My client base is primarily comprised of adults who have survived strokes and brain trauma, or those suffering from neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinsons and all types of dementia, as well as head and neck cancer. Individuals with other impairments are also seen. A general outline of services is listed, although is not limited to the following:
*Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) are diagnosed and intervention is provided to: determine the safest diet level through guarded trials and diet adjustment, create home exercises to regain function, train and educate the client and caregivers in safe swallow practices/strategies and meal preparation, with the overall goal of reducing aspiration risk with the least restrictive diet.
*Speech, language, and voice disorders are evaluated and treatment is given for dysarthria, apraxia, expressive and receptive aphasia, and voice difficulties due to neurologic involvement or head and neck surgery. Reading and writing deficits are also targeted for intervention, and augmentative and alternative communication devices created or recommended (low or high tech) for nonverbal patients, as well as training in use of voice prosthesis if appropriate.
*Cognitive impairments including memory loss, problem solving/ reasoning, planning, orientation, and thought organization are evaluated and treatment is provided. Adaptive and environmental aids are created and patients and caregivers are trained in their use, such as memory books for those with Alzheimer's or other neurologic difficulties.
*Hearing and visual impairments are addressed either in isolation or in conjunction with other deficits and patients and caregivers are assisted in obtaining and utilizing adaptive aids such as amplification devices, phones with special features, large print materials, or referrals are made to appropriate community resources.
My treatment focuses on an individual's functional needs and abilities. Sessions are tailored to promote the best quality of life with the most realistic and attainable goals. I am compassionate and caring while having the flexibiltiy to adjust my intervention to address special issues as they arise. Counseling is provided for emotional adjustment to disability as needed using an intuitive and trusting approach. My goal with patients is to have them participate in their lives at the highest level possible with optimal success.
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