Communication Therapy for Adults
Supporting your voice, your words, your life—with evidence-based therapy that empowers communication, dignity, and independence.
Supporting Adults with Commnication Therapy
Communication is central to connection, independence, and quality of life. Adults may experience communication difficulties due to stroke, brain injury, progressive neurological conditions, or other medical changes. These challenges might include difficulty finding words (aphasia), slurred or weak speech (dysarthria), speech coordination issues (apraxia of speech), or changes in thinking and language skills (cognitive communication disorders).
At Greenlights Therapies, we work with individuals and their families to rebuild communication skills and confidence, using evidence-based speech therapy grounded in the latest research and delivered with holistic, person-centred care.
Rebuilding communication after illness or injury with supportive speech therapy.
When communication is affected by a condition like stroke, traumatic brain injury, or a degenerative disease such as Parkinson’s or motor neurone disease, it can profoundly impact daily life. We support adults experiencing motor speech disorders, language difficulties, and cognitive-communication changes, working to improve speech clarity, understanding, expressive language, and social communication.
Our therapy focuses on what matters most, whether its reconnecting with loved ones, returning to work, or navigating everyday tasks, our therapy services are delivered with clinical expertise, compassion, and respect for each individual’s unique experience.
What are motor speech and language disorders?
Motor speech disorders affect the coordination and control of the muscles involved in speech. Conditions like dysarthria, which can result from spasticity, weakness, or other muscle impairments, may cause speech to become slurred, slow, or difficult to understand. Dysarthria can arise from a variety of neurological conditions, such as stroke, brain injury, or Parkinson’s disease.
Apraxia of speech is another type of motor speech disorder where the brain has difficulty planning and coordinating the movements needed for clear speech, even though the muscles themselves may function normally. Individuals with apraxia often know what they want to say, but the pathway from the brain to the muscles is disrupted, making it hard to articulate words correctly. Therapy for motor speech disorders focuses on improving the clarity, coordination, and strength of speech production, helping individuals communicate more effectively.
Language disorders affect a person’s ability to understand, produce, or use language effectively. The term aphasia is used to describe acquired language disorders, which can occur after a stroke, brain injury, or brain tumors. Aphasia can impact expressive language (difficulty finding the right words or forming sentences) and receptive language (difficulty understanding spoken or written language).
Aphasia may affect spoken language, reading, writing, or comprehension, making it challenging to communicate with others. Language disorders can significantly affect social interactions, work, and day-to-day life. Therapy helps individuals regain their ability to express themselves, improve comprehension, and communicate more confidently, whether through spoken language, writing, or other communication strategies.
FAQ
How common are communication difficulties after a stroke, and what is the prognosis for recovery?
Communication difficulties—such as aphasia, dysarthria, or apraxia of speech—are common after a stroke, affecting around one in three stroke survivors. These challenges can make it hard to speak, understand others, read, write, or express how you’re feeling. They can also make it harder to interact with your treating team, ask questions, or stay socially connected.
Recovery varies from person to person. While most improvement typically happens in the first few months, it’s important to know that progress can continue for years with the right support. Regular speech therapy and ongoing practice, such as joining a local aphasia group or participating in social communication opportunities can make a big difference.
Communication difficulties can be frustrating and isolating, and they may increase the risk of depression and anxiety. It’s important to seek support from your healthcare team, including your doctor and speech pathologist, if you’re feeling overwhelmed. With the right therapy and support, many people experience meaningful improvements and reconnect with the people and activities that matter most.
How can families support adults with communication disorders?
Families play a crucial role in supporting adults with communication disorders. Here are some ways families can help:
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Be patient: Communication may take longer, so give your loved one extra time to express themselves without interrupting.
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Create a supportive environment: Reduce distractions, make sure they can see and hear you clearly, and use simple, direct language.
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Encourage practice: Help your loved one practice new communication strategies or exercises suggested by their speech pathologist.
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Use alternative communication tools: If recommended, help with AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices or communication boards to assist in expressing thoughts.
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Stay positive and provide encouragement: Celebrate small successes and provide reassurance to boost confidence and morale.
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Be involved in therapy: Attend therapy sessions, when possible, to better understand your loved one’s progress and learn ways to support them at home.
Your involvement and understanding can make a significant difference in the recovery process, helping your loved one regain their communication skills and improve their quality of life.
What is the ICF Framework, and how does it relate to adult communication disorders?
The ICF Framework (International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health), developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), provides a comprehensive model to assess health and functioning in a holistic way. It goes beyond just looking at the medical condition and takes into account how the condition impacts a person’s participation in daily life activities, such as social interactions, work, and self-care.
In the context of adult communication disorders, the ICF Framework helps speech pathologists assess not only the physical aspects of a disorder (e.g., muscle control for speech or language function) but also how these challenges affect a person’s social interactions, emotional well-being, and ability to perform in daily life. By incorporating the ICF model, therapy is focused not only on improving specific symptoms but also on enhancing overall quality of life, supporting the individual’s ability to participate in meaningful activities like reconnecting with family, returning to work, or engaging in social settings.
How long will therapy take to improve communication?
The length of therapy depends on the individual’s condition, the severity of the communication disorder, and the progress made during therapy. Some people see significant improvements in just a few sessions, while others may need ongoing support for months or longer. A speech pathologist will develop a personalised treatment plan to help achieve meaningful progress.
What is AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), and how can it help with adult communication disorders?
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) refers to methods and tools that help individuals communicate when speaking or writing is difficult. It can augment or replace speech, allowing individuals to express themselves more effectively.
AAC can include both unaided methods (like sign language or gestures) and aided methods (such as communication boards, speech-generating devices, or apps). These tools help people with conditions like aphasia, dysarthria, or apraxia communicate when speech is challenging or unclear.
AAC can be used as part of speech therapy to improve overall communication and help individuals maintain meaningful interactions with others.
How are goals set in speech therapy for adult communication disorders?
In speech therapy, goals are set based on the individual’s specific communication challenges and what they want to achieve. Goals are personalised to ensure they are meaningful and relevant to the person’s daily life. For example, goals might focus on improving speech clarity, enhancing understanding of language, or developing strategies to manage cognitive-communication difficulties in specific settings. These goals are often set in collaboration with the individual, their family, and other healthcare providers to ensure they align with the person’s needs and priorities. Goals are reviewed regularly to track progress and adjust therapy as needed.
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work, live, and gather. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, and recognise their ongoing connection to land, waters, and culture. We are committed to fostering inclusive and culturally respectful healthcare services that meet the needs of First Nations communities across Tasmania and beyond.