OUR SPECIALTIES

What is CAS?

Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a type of speech sound disorder that is characterized by an inefficiency in motor planning and programming. 

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), CAS is defined as:
"A neurological childhood (pediatric) speech sound disorder in which the precision and consistency of movements underlying speech are impaired in the absence of neuromuscular deficits..." (ASHA, 2007).

Signs of CAS Include but are NOT Limited To:

• Groping movements when trying to speak

• Distorted vowel sounds

• Equal stress on syllables

• Inconsistent speech errors on the same word over multiple trials

Diagnosis at Let’s Talk

At Let’s Talk, we offer comprehensive, dynamic motor speech evaluations conducted by our team of experts to determine if a child meets the criteria for CAS. Since CAS is a rare and complex disorder, it is essential that diagnosis is made by a speech-language pathologist with specialized training in motor speech disorders.

According to ASHA, only certified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with expertise in the principles of motor learning, differential diagnosis, and CAS intervention techniques should diagnose and treat CAS.

Our Therapy Approach

We provide 1:1 therapy sessions tailored to each child’s needs, using evidence-based approaches for CAS treatment. Our clinicians are trained in leading therapy methods, including:

• Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) – Dr. Edythe Strand’s research-based approach for motor learning.
• PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets) – A tactile-kinesthetic method that supports speech development.
• Nancy Kaufman’s Speech to Language Protocol – A structured approach for improving speech clarity.
• Multi-sensory cueing techniques – Using visual, auditory, and tactile cues to enhance speech production.

What is a Myofunctional Disorder?

A myofunctional disorder occurs when the orofacial muscles (tongue, lips, jaw) do not function properly, which can interfere with normal growth, development, and oral function. These disorders can impact speech, swallowing, breathing, and overall oral health.

Orofacial myofunctional therapy helps correct muscle function and provides rehabilitation for the following conditions:

Conditions We Treat

✔ Tongue Thrust – Incorrect tongue placement during swallowing or at rest.
✔ Incorrect Tongue Rest-Posture / Swallowing Pattern – Poor positioning of the tongue that affects oral function.
✔ Thumb / Pacifier Sucking Habit – Persistent habits that can impact dental and speech development.
✔ Nail Biting & Other Oral Habits – Compulsive habits affecting the mouth and teeth.
✔ Lip Incompetence (Open Mouth Posture) – Difficulty keeping the lips sealed at rest.
✔ Tongue and Lip Tie – Restricted movement of the tongue or lips due to tight tissue.
✔ Incorrect Oral Placement for Articulation Sounds – Difficulty producing clear speech due to tongue and mouth posture.
✔ Drooling – Excessive saliva flow due to weak or uncoordinated oral muscles.

Our Therapy Approach

We offer customized therapy based on age and specific needs:

• Children 5 years and older – Treated using a myofunctional therapy approach to retrain muscle function.
• Children under 5 years – Treated using a feeding therapy approach to support oral development.

Our Services Include:

✅ Weekly therapy sessions tailored to each individual’s needs.
✅ Pre- and post-op care for tongue ties to support recovery and function.
✅ Habit elimination programs for thumb/finger sucking, pacifier use, and other oral habits.

 1. Prenatal Feeding Counseling (Private Pay Only – In Office or Virtual)

📌 Who it's for: Expecting parents who want to learn more about breast/chest feeding, bottle feeding, or have specific concerns before birth.
📌 What to expect:

• Education on different feeding methods and what to expect after birth.
• Guidance on your personal feeding goals.
• A personalized feeding plan so you feel confident and empowered from day one.

2. Early Infant Feeding Evaluation (0-6 Months)

📌 Who it's for: Parents experiencing feeding difficulties in the first six months of life.
📌 What to expect:

• Latch assessment (for breast/chest and/or bottle feeding).
• Troubleshooting milk supply, reflux, gas, oral ties, and other feeding concerns.
• A customized feeding plan with ongoing support as needed.

3. Transitional Feeding Evaluation (6+ Months)

📌 Who it's for: Parents navigating milestones like returning to work, weaning, or starting solids.
📌 What to expect:

• Assessment of your child’s feeding skills at this stage.
• Guidance on introducing solids and adjusting your feeding routine.
• A personalized plan tailored to your baby's needs, with continued support as needed.

4. Food for Tots Evaluation (9-18+ Months)

📌 Who it's for: Parents transitioning their child from formula/breastmilk to family foods.
📌 What to expect:

• Evaluation of chewing and swallowing skills for different textures.
• Support for picky eating, transitioning from purees to solids, and expanding food variety.
• A nutrition-based feeding plan to ensure your child gets the nutrients needed to thrive.