908-509-7340
Evaluation
Evaluation of feeding and swallowing, orofacial myofunctional disorders, and speech sound disorders.
Intervention
Feeding and swallowing therapy, orofacial myofunctional therapy, pre- and post- frenectomy neuromuscular re-education, and traditional speech therapy
SERVICES
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT)
Infant and Child Feeding
There can be a variety of root causes that result in feeding difficulties throughout childhood. Evaluation and treatment can target breast and bottle feeding, transition to solids, straw and cup drinking, as well as selective eating. Is your infant or child having feeding difficulties? Signs include, but are not limited to:
Lauren uses evidence-based treatment approaches to treat a variety of speech sound disorders and improve a child’s ability to be understood.
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy trains the muscles of the face and mouth and teaches clients how to properly breath, swallow and speak. OMT targets nasal breathing and facilitation of appropriate resting posture and movement patterns of the tongue, lips, and jaw, to promote optimal facial and dental development. A collaborative approach to OMD’s is integral to help your child reach their full potential.
Pre- & Post-Frenectomy Neuromuscular Re-Education
Speech Sound Therapy
Exercises before and after a frenectomy are very important to an optimal outcome. Pre-release care involves a comprehensive evaluation which includes a case history of symptoms, and assessment of structure and function. This therapy is necessary to help the client acclimate to the exercises, maximize range of motion, and release of tension for a more successful outcome. Furthermore, it ensures that caregivers are confident with aftercare protocols. Post-frenectomy therapy targets engaging previously unused muscles of the mouth and face, and retraining of motor patterns.
-Coughing, gagging, and/or choking during feedings
-Painful latch while breastfeeding for mom
-Falling asleep or decreased alertness during feedings
-Frequent loss of formula/breastmilk from mouth during feeds
-Crying or pulling away from breast or bottle during feeding
-Poor weight gain/failure to thrive
-An extremely selective diet
-Difficulty accepting purees by 6-7 months
-Difficulty progressing from purees to soft solids by 8-9 months
-Anxiety around new foods
-Difficulty chewing/moving food around in the mouth
-Gagging or vomiting
-Extended mealtimes (>30 minutes)