Memory lapses, trouble focusing, and difficulty finding the right words can be frustrating. Whether these changes happen after a stroke, brain injury, or simply aging, they can affect your ability to manage your daily tasks and stay independent. But did you know that speech therapy can help you improve these skills?
At Rebound Physical Therapy, our speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work with adults to improve their thinking and communication skills through personalized therapy that builds confidence, function, and quality of life. Keep reading to learn how speech and thinking skills are related, and find out how our experts at Rebound can help you maintain your independence.
What Is Cognitive Communication Therapy?
Cognitive communication therapy is a specialized type of speech therapy that focuses on the thinking skills required for effective communication. This includes areas like memory, attention, organization, reasoning, and problem-solving. These are all skills that support your ability to understand language, express yourself clearly, and handle daily tasks.
For example, if you find yourself forgetting what you were saying mid-sentence, struggling to follow multi-step instructions, or feeling mentally “foggy” in social situations, cognitive-communication therapy can help you overcome these challenges.
Why See a Speech Therapist for Cognitive Issues?
When people hear “speech therapy,” they often think we only help with speaking. But speech-language pathologists are trained to treat the cognitive foundations of communication as well. This makes us uniquely qualified to support adults who struggle with memory, focus, and executive functioning.
Our SLPs look at how cognitive (thinking) skills work with speech and language skills for effective communication. We can help you:
- Remember names, appointments, and tasks
- Follow conversations and stay on topic
- Process and respond to information more quickly
- Plan and organize your thoughts
- Adapt to cognitive changes after a neurological event like a stroke or brain injury
While occupational therapists also work with cognitive skills, speech therapists focus specifically on how those skills impact your ability to think, speak, understand, and interact with others. This makes us your ideal providers when your memory or processing issues are affecting how you communicate.
What to Expect in Speech Therapy for Cognitive Communication
Cognitive communication therapy starts with a thorough evaluation to identify your strengths and limitations. Based on the results, our speech therapists will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Your therapy plan may include:
- Memory & Focus Exercises – To help increase your ability to remember and pay attention to important tasks, names, etc.
- Executive Function Support – To help you improve your organization, planning, and problem-solving skills so you can better handle everyday challenges
- Communication Practice – To increase your clarity, confidence, and comprehension in conversations
- Auditory Processing Support – To address any underlying challenges that impact your ability to understand others’ speech and language
Reach Out to Rebound for Expert Support
If you’ve noticed changes in your memory, attention, or problem-solving skills that are affecting your daily life, cognitive-communication therapy can help. Call Rebound Physical Therapy at (785) 367-3079 to schedule a speech therapy screening, and let’s work together to get you back in action today.
