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.

At Let's Talk, we offer a range of AAC services tailored to meet the unique needs of each child and family. Our goal is to provide meaningful support at every stage of the AAC journey. Services include:  

• AAC evaluations to determine the most appropriate tools and supports for each individual

• Device trials and funding support to help families navigate the path to obtaining AAC

• Individualized AAC therapy to support functional communication, language development, and user independence

• Parent and caregiver training to ensure AAC use is supported across all environments

• Team collaboration with schools, OTs, PTs, and other professionals to build consistent communication systems