
Generally my clients are children BUT every so often I get an adult interested in speech therapy to correct a sound error that they still are struggling with. I have had adult clients who have a hard time shaping the /r/ sound, adult clients with a distorted /s/ sound, or adult clients who have a tongue thrust that has interfered with orthodontia work.
SO...is it ever too late to correct a sound error? Is speech therapy just for kids? Can you teach an old(er) dog new tricks? Of course you can!
I LOVE LOVE working with adult clients because they have a lot going for them right out the door. Adults are motivated to make a change, they want to fix the sound, they are paying for the help! Because adults are motivated they generally practice more consistently and with a greater focused effort. Adults have a longer attention span and don't mind drilling, they don't need games because they are not here to play...they are here to work! Adults are good listeners, they watch and remember instructions because adults are paying attention. Adults are able to think abstractly and figuratively so it is easier to work on sounds and shapes that they can't see you making in your mouth. And my very favorite part about working with adults: Adults are willing to take responsibility for their sounds! They work hard to be able to hear differences and correct errors on their own.
If you are an adult who would like help, but tried speech therapy and had a bad experience, or an adult who has never even tried speech therapy, don't give up! It is never too late, adults can ROCK speech therapy! Some of my most rewarding sessions have been with adults as they conquer sounds that have eluded them for years.
SO...is it ever too late to correct a sound error? Is speech therapy just for kids? Can you teach an old(er) dog new tricks? Of course you can!
I LOVE LOVE working with adult clients because they have a lot going for them right out the door. Adults are motivated to make a change, they want to fix the sound, they are paying for the help! Because adults are motivated they generally practice more consistently and with a greater focused effort. Adults have a longer attention span and don't mind drilling, they don't need games because they are not here to play...they are here to work! Adults are good listeners, they watch and remember instructions because adults are paying attention. Adults are able to think abstractly and figuratively so it is easier to work on sounds and shapes that they can't see you making in your mouth. And my very favorite part about working with adults: Adults are willing to take responsibility for their sounds! They work hard to be able to hear differences and correct errors on their own.
If you are an adult who would like help, but tried speech therapy and had a bad experience, or an adult who has never even tried speech therapy, don't give up! It is never too late, adults can ROCK speech therapy! Some of my most rewarding sessions have been with adults as they conquer sounds that have eluded them for years.