All posts by Yasminah Abdullah, M.S., CCC-SLP

About Yasminah Abdullah, M.S., CCC-SLP

Ms.Yasminah Abdullah, M.S., CCC-SLP is a principal Speech-Language Pathologist at Total Speech Therapy

Apraxia of Speech, also known as Developmental Apraxia of Speech (DAS) or Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), is more than just difficulty speaking. It’s a neurological disorder in which the brain struggles to plan and sequence the precise movements required for accurate speech. Although the muscles themselves are generally not weak, the planning, timing, and coordination are disrupted. This has far-reaching consequences for how a child learns, interacts, and expresses themselves. Total Speech Therapy, serving families in Baltimore and Houston, sees firsthand how apraxia shapes communication skills and how therapeutic strategies can help mitigate its impact.

Key Impacts on Communication

  1. Inconsistent Speech Production
    One hallmark of apraxia is that a child might correctly say a word one time and fail to replicate it another time—even in similar contexts. This unpredictability in articulatory accuracy frustrates both the child and listeners, slowing down conversation and understanding.
  2. Difficulty with Sound Sequences & Complex Words
    Children with apraxia typically find chain transitions (moving from one sound to another) much harder, especially in multi-syllabic words. For example, “butterfly” or “hippopotamus” may be especially challenging. This leads children to simplify words, leave out sounds, or approximate them in ways that reduce speech clarity.
  3. Slow or Halting Speech, Increased Effort
    Because every sound or syllable may need conscious planning, speaking can be slow and effortful. Children may pause between syllables or words, struggle with longer utterances, or avoid words they anticipate will be difficult. All of these places an extra cognitive load on both planning and producing speech.
  4. Impacts Beyond Speech: Language and Learning
    While apraxia is fundamentally a motor planning issue, its effects often spill into language development. Some children with apraxia also show delays in expressive language (forming sentences) and sometimes receptive language (understanding) when their speech is so impaired that they have fewer opportunities to engage in conversation. Research shows that co-occurring motor coordination or developmental delays in other domains are common.
  5. Social, Emotional, & Participation Effects
    Communication difficulty can lead to frustration, reduced willingness to talk, low self‐esteem, and social withdrawal. According to studies, children with apraxia may have fewer interactions, avoid speaking in settings like school, and struggle with social bonding because their speech isn’t reliably understood. These impacts affect participation in daily life.

Effective Therapy Options & How They Help

Though the communication challenges are significant, there are proven approaches that help children with apraxia make meaningful progress.

  1. Multisensory Techniques
    Therapies that engage visual, tactile, and auditory feedback, such as using mirrors, tactile cues, or auditory modeling, help children understand what articulatory movements are needed. The PROMPT model, for example, uses touch on the lips, jaw, and face to guide accurate placement.
  2. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
    AAC devices or systems (low tech or high tech) play a critical role, especially for children with severe apraxia or those who are minimally verbal. These tools don’t replace speech; they support communication while speech skills develop. Research shows that using speech-generating devices improves both communicative interaction and language development in children with severe CAS.
  3. Structured and Repetitive Practice
    Because apraxia is about planning and programming speech, repetition, frequent practice, and gradually increasing complexity are essential. Techniques often emphasize syllable practice, moving to words, then phrases and sentences, always under guidance to mitigate errors. Therapy should be dynamic and consistent.
  4. Addressing Co-occurring Challenges
    Many children with apraxia also have associated motor difficulties, attention or coordination issues, or expressive language disorders. An effective therapy plan takes these into account—sometimes coordinating with PT/OT to support fine/gross motor skills and ensuring tasks aren’t too demanding in terms of coordination load.
  5. Environmental and Emotional Support
    A supportive environment, both at home and at school, makes a big difference. That means patience from caregivers, reduced pressure in communication situations, encouragement, and the use of supportive tools like visual schedules. Celebrating small successes helps build motivation and resilience.

Why Choose Total Speech Therapy for Apraxia Support?

At Total Speech Therapy, we specialize in delivering individualized, evidence-based apraxia therapy in Baltimore and Houston. Our speech therapists evaluate each child’s unique profile of speech planning skills, language abilities, motor coordination, and emotional readiness, and then develop comprehensive treatment plans that incorporate some of the strategies mentioned earlier. We work closely with families to ensure proper home practice, the use of assistive technology when necessary, and ongoing support. We believe communication isn’t optional—it’s vital to your child’s self-esteem, social interactions, and future success.

If you think your child may have apraxia of speech—perhaps they have difficulty saying longer words, are inconsistent, or find speech frustrating for them or you—don’t wait. Early intervention can make a significant difference. Contact Total Speech Therapy to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. We’re here providing a path toward clearer speech, stronger confidence, and fuller participation. Because your child’s voice and their ability to share it matter.

Every year, thousands of individuals face life-changing challenges after experiencing a stroke or brain injury. While these conditions can greatly impact mobility, memory, and communication, the right rehabilitation plan can lead to recovery, independence, and a better quality of life. At Total Speech Therapy, serving families in Baltimore, MD, and Houston, TX, we focus on advanced rehabilitation methods, especially in speech and language therapy. Let’s look at the latest, most innovative approaches to stroke and brain injury rehabilitation and how they can make a positive difference.

1. Individualized, Evidence-Based Therapy Plans

Recovery after a stroke or brain injury is never one-size-fits-all. Every individual’s journey depends on the type of injury, the areas of the brain affected, and personal goals. Innovative rehabilitation focuses on customized care plans designed through detailed assessments.

At Total Speech Therapy, our team develops tailored programs that target communication challenges, cognitive skills, swallowing difficulties, and social interaction. By personalizing therapy, we ensure treatment is both relevant and effective.

2. Intensive Speech and Language Therapy

One of the biggest hurdles after a stroke or brain injury is regaining communication skills. Many patients experience aphasia (difficulty understanding or producing language), apraxia of speech, or dysarthria (slurred or weak speech).

Innovative rehabilitation emphasizes intensive, targeted therapy sessions that build consistency and create new pathways in the brain. Repetition, practice, and structured exercises play a crucial role in rewiring neural connections, leading to stronger outcomes.

3. Technology-Assisted Rehabilitation

Advancements in technology have transformed stroke and brain injury therapy. From apps that encourage language practice to computer-based tools for memory and attention, technology creates engaging ways to support therapy goals.

Examples include:

  • Speech therapy software that tracks progress in real-time.
  • Virtual reality (VR) is used to simulate real-world communication scenarios.
  • Teletherapy options allow individuals to continue care at home with the support of a professional.

At Total Speech Therapy, we integrate these tools with traditional therapy for a well-rounded approach.

4. Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Recovery often requires the expertise of multiple specialists—speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and neurologists. Modern rehabilitation emphasizes collaboration, ensuring each aspect of recovery supports the other.

For example, while a physical therapist works on mobility, a speech pathologist can simultaneously address swallowing safety or voice strength. This team-based care accelerates progress and improves overall quality of life.

5. Family and Caregiver Involvement

One of the most innovative yet often overlooked strategies in stroke and brain injury rehabilitation is the inclusion of family members and caregivers in therapy. Training caregivers to reinforce exercises and communication strategies at home ensures therapy extends beyond clinical sessions.

At Total Speech Therapy, we provide guidance and education for families, empowering them to actively participate in their loved one’s recovery journey.

6. Holistic and Functional Approaches

The goal of rehabilitation isn’t just to restore skills—it’s to help individuals live fulfilling, independent lives. Innovative therapy often takes a functional approach, focusing on real-world applications such as ordering food at a restaurant, making a phone call, or participating in social events.

Holistic care also addresses the emotional impact of brain injury, incorporating strategies to build confidence, reduce frustration, and encourage social engagement.

Why Choose Total Speech Therapy in Baltimore and Houston?

At Total Speech Therapy, we understand the challenges that follow a stroke or brain injury. Our approach combines personalized therapy, cutting-edge tools, and compassionate care to maximize recovery. Whether it’s improving speech clarity, rebuilding confidence, or supporting cognitive functions, we are committed to walking with our patients every step of the way.

📍 Serving Baltimore, MD, and Houston, TX
📞 Maryland Office: (410) 696-3301
📞 Texas Office: (713) 489-6697Stroke and brain injury rehabilitation has advanced far beyond traditional methods. With innovative approaches like individualized therapy, technology integration, multidisciplinary care, and family involvement, recovery is more achievable than ever. If you or a loved one is navigating this journey, remember—you don’t have to do it alone. At Total Speech Therapy, we’re here to help restore communication, rebuild confidence, and redefine possibilities.

Communication forms the basis of human interaction. Whether it’s a child learning to speak for the first time or an adult working to regain clarity after a speech disorder, the ability to produce sounds accurately is vital. However, many individuals face articulation challenges that can hinder clear and confident communication. This is where articulation speech therapy becomes important—a specialized service designed to help individuals produce sounds more precisely and enhance overall speech understanding.

At Total Speech Therapy, we recognize the difficulties articulation issues can cause in daily life. Our experienced articulation speech therapists in Houston and Baltimore collaborate with people of all ages to overcome these challenges and develop strong, effective communication skills.

What is Articulation Therapy?

Articulation therapy is a focused type of speech therapy aimed at fixing sound production mistakes. These mistakes might include omissions (leaving out sounds), substitutions (replacing one sound with another), distortions (slightly incorrect sounds), or additions (adding extra sounds). While common in early childhood, these mistakes can continue if not addressed, potentially impacting a child’s school performance, social interactions, and self-confidence.

Adults may also seek articulation therapy, particularly if they have developed speech issues after neurological injuries such as stroke or traumatic brain injury.

Why Do People Need Articulation Speech Therapy?

There are many reasons why children and adults may require articulation therapy, including:

  • Developmental delays – Some children take longer to acquire correct speech patterns.
  • Hearing loss – Poor hearing can affect how sounds are learned and reproduced.
  • Neurological conditions – Disorders like apraxia, cerebral palsy, or stroke can affect the muscle control and coordination necessary for clear speech.
  • Structural anomalies – Cleft palate or dental misalignments may make articulation difficult.
  • Lack of early intervention – When articulation issues are not addressed early, they may persist into later years.

The Role of a Speech Therapist

A certified speech-language pathologist (SLP) plays a vital role in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating articulation disorders. At Total Speech Therapy, our specialists begin by conducting a comprehensive speech assessment to determine the types of errors being made, the severity, and the potential underlying causes.

Once a diagnosis is made, a personalized therapy plan is developed. Therapy may include:

  • Auditory discrimination training – Helping the individual recognize the difference between correct and incorrect sounds.
  • Sound production practice – Teaching correct placement and movement of articulators (tongue, lips, jaw) for accurate sound production.
  • Repetition and reinforcement – Using structured activities and games to reinforce correct speech patterns.
  • Home practice assignments – Involving families in the therapy process to encourage consistent practice outside of sessions.

Benefits of Articulation Speech Therapy

When done consistently and under professional guidance, articulation therapy can provide life-changing benefits, such as:

  • Improved intelligibility – Listeners can better understand the individual’s speech, reducing the need for repetition or clarification.
  • Boosted confidence – Clear communication fosters self-assurance in social and academic settings.
  • Enhanced academic performance – Better articulation leads to improved reading, writing, and classroom participation.
  • Strengthened social interaction – Clearer speech allows individuals to engage more freely with peers, friends, and coworkers.

At Total Speech Therapy, we take pride in offering compassionate and customized care for individuals facing communication challenges. Whether you’re seeking articulation speech therapy, our team of certified professionals uses the latest research-backed techniques to ensure every client reaches their full communication potential.

We are committed to working collaboratively with parents, caregivers, teachers, and healthcare providers to support continuity of care and optimize outcomes.

If you or your child is experiencing difficulties with articulation, don’t wait. Early intervention can make a significant difference in achieving effective communication. Reach out to Total Speech Therapy today and let our dedicated team guide you or your loved one on the journey to clearer speech.

When a child is learning to speak, it’s common for them to make speech errors—substituting or omitting sounds, mispronouncing words, or simplifying syllables. However, when these patterns persist beyond the expected developmental age, it could indicate a phonological delay. If you’ve noticed that your child’s speech is hard to understand or not developing as quickly as their peers, it’s important to seek help from a qualified speech-language pathologist.

At Total Speech Therapy, we provide specialized Phonological Delay Therapy in Baltimore and Houston to help children overcome these challenges and develop clear, confident communication skills.

What is a Phonological Delay?

A phonological delay happens when a child continues to use speech patterns typical of younger children. While these patterns may be appropriate for toddlers, they can signal a problem if they last beyond a certain age. Unlike articulation disorders, which involve errors in producing specific speech sounds (like saying “wabbit” instead of “rabbit”), phonological delays involve consistent error patterns that affect entire groups of sounds.

Examples of phonological processes include:

  • Final consonant deletion: Saying “ca” for “cat”
  • Cluster reduction: Saying “pane” for “plane”
  • Fronting: Saying “tat” for “cat”

If left untreated, phonological delays can hinder a child’s ability to be understood by others, affecting their academic performance, self-esteem, and social interactions.

Signs Your Child Might Have a Phonological Delay

Parents are often the first to notice when something feels “off” in their child’s speech. Here are a few signs that may indicate a phonological delay:

  • Your child’s speech becomes difficult for unfamiliar people to understand after the age of 3.
  • Your child frequently omits or substitutes sounds in words.
  • Speech errors follow predictable patterns.
  • There’s a noticeable gap between what your child understands and what they can say clearly.

If any of these sound familiar, a comprehensive evaluation by a speech-language pathologist is highly recommended.

At Total Speech Therapy, we specialize in diagnosing and treating phonological delays using evidence-based approaches that are customized for each child’s unique needs. Our Phonological Delay Therapy services are designed to target the specific error patterns your child exhibits and help them correct those errors through repetition, play, and structured speech activities.

Our process includes:

  • Detailed speech and language evaluation
    We identify which phonological processes are affecting your child’s speech and determine whether they are developmentally appropriate or delayed.
  • Individualized treatment plans
    Each child receives a personalized plan with clearly defined goals, targeted exercises, and engaging activities to support progress.
  • Family involvement
    We provide parents with strategies and activities to reinforce therapy goals at home, ensuring consistent support in your child’s daily environment.

What Makes Our Therapy Effective?

Our therapists use a combination of traditional and modern techniques, including:

  • Minimal pair therapy (teaching contrasting word pairs to highlight sound differences)
  • Cycles approach (targeting multiple error patterns over specific intervals)
  • Play-based and visual cueing strategies to enhance learning and engagement

With a focus on early intervention, we aim to correct speech patterns before they become ingrained habits. Our friendly and experienced therapists in both Baltimore and Houston create a warm, motivating atmosphere where children feel supported and confident in their progress.

If your child is having trouble with speech clarity, don’t wait. Early intervention is essential for successful results. At Total Speech Therapy, we offer flexible scheduling options, including in-home, in-school, clinic-based, and teletherapy sessions.

Total Speech Therapy proudly serves families in both Baltimore, MD, and Houston, TX. To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact our Maryland office at (410) 696-3301 or our Texas office at (713) 489-6697. Help your child gain the gift of clear communication. Let Total Speech Therapy support your family every step of the way.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents a wide range of challenges that impact communication, behavior, and social interaction. At Total Speech Therapy, we understand that each child with autism is unique, and effective therapy must be tailored to individual needs. As the demand for autism therapy in Maryland and Texas grows, we remain committed to leading the way in therapeutic innovation, offering advanced approaches that break barriers and unlock every child’s potential.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that influences how individuals perceive the world and communicate with others. Common signs include limited verbal communication, difficulty maintaining eye contact, repetitive behaviors, and challenges with social interaction. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential, as research indicates that children who receive therapy early are more likely to develop vital skills and achieve better long-term outcomes.

The Power of Personalized, Multimodal Therapy

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all methods. At Total Speech Therapy, we believe in developing individualized therapy plans based on each child’s specific strengths and challenges. We combine traditional techniques with modern innovations to build skills in speech, language, cognition, and social interaction.

Some of the core components of our autism therapy programs include:

  • Speech and Language Therapy
    Our therapists work on improving receptive (understanding) and expressive (speaking) language. We help children develop the vocabulary, sentence structure, and conversational skills needed to communicate effectively.
  • Social Communication Therapy
    Many children with ASD find it difficult to pick up on social cues or maintain back-and-forth conversations. Our social skills programs help children learn how to initiate interaction, interpret body language, and engage with peers.
  • Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC)
    For nonverbal children, we introduce communication aids like picture exchange systems (PECS) and speech-generating devices that help them express themselves in a way that feels natural and empowering.

New Innovations in Autism Therapy

The field of autism therapy has seen a surge in innovation, with technology-enhanced solutions transforming how children learn and grow.

  1. Teletherapy
    With virtual therapy, children can receive high-quality care from the comfort of their homes. Our teletherapy sessions are fully interactive, parent-inclusive, and designed to keep children engaged through play-based learning.
  2. Sensory-Inclusive Therapy
    Children with autism often experience sensory sensitivities. Our therapy sessions are structured to provide a calm, regulated environment that minimizes sensory overload and supports focus.
  3. Visual Learning Tools
    Many children with autism are visual learners. We integrate visual schedules, social stories, and digital platforms to simplify complex concepts and support comprehension.
  4. Parent Coaching and Collaboration
    Therapy is most effective when extended beyond the clinic. We provide parent training and support to reinforce therapy goals at home and empower families to participate in their child’s progress.

Serving Families in Maryland and Texas

Whether you are in Baltimore, Maryland, or Houston, Texas, Total Speech Therapy offers professional, compassionate care tailored to your child’s needs. We provide services in-office, in schools and daycares, or even in your home for maximum convenience and comfort.

Our experienced therapists are trained to address the diverse needs associated with autism, from speech and language delays to feeding difficulties and behavioral communication challenges. By understanding your child holistically, we create a safe, supportive environment for real growth.

Why Choose Total Speech Therapy?

  • Licensed and experienced pediatric therapists
  • Flexible therapy delivery: in-person and teletherapy
  • Individualized treatment plans based on current best practices
  • A compassionate, child-centered approach
  • Proven success in helping children reach developmental milestones

Empower Your Child’s Future Today

Autism therapy is not just about managing challenges—it’s about unlocking potential. At Total Speech Therapy, we’re proud to offer evidence-based, compassionate autism therapy that changes lives.

Together, let’s break barriers and build a brighter future—one step at a time.

Communication is the foundation of learning, social interaction, and emotional growth. For children facing speech and language challenges, that foundation may feel unstable, but with the right support, it can be strengthened even more. At Total Speech Therapy, we specialize in pediatric speech and language therapy that helps children in Baltimore and Houston express themselves clearly, confidently, and with joy.

Why Early Communication Matters?

From a child’s first words to their ability to follow directions, ask questions, and engage in conversations, speech and language skills are essential. When there’s a delay or difficulty, it can impact academic progress, social skills, and self-esteem. Parents might notice signs such as:

  • Delayed speech milestones
  • Difficulty pronouncing words clearly
  • Struggles with forming sentences or recalling words
  • Frustration or tantrums when trying to communicate

These challenges are more than normal developmental quirks—they are signals that professional help might be needed.

How Pediatric Speech Therapy Helps

At Total Speech Therapy, we understand that no two children are the same. Our speech-language pathologists (SLPs) create individualized treatment plans based on a thorough assessment of the child’s needs. We provide a wide range of therapy services for speech and language disorders, including:

  • Articulation therapy helps children pronounce sounds and words correctly
  • Language therapy to build vocabulary, sentence structure, and comprehension
  • Voice therapy for children with hoarseness, vocal strain, or breathing-related voice issues
  • Fluency therapy for stuttering and other disruptions in the flow of speech
  • Feeding and swallowing therapy, when oral-motor skills are involved

Whether your child has a developmental delay, autism, cleft palate, or a neurological condition, our team is equipped to help.

Articulation Challenges: When Speech Isn’t Clear

Many children struggle with articulation, where they substitute, omit, or distort sounds. For example, a child might say “wabbit” instead of “rabbit” or drop the final consonant in words. While these patterns may be normal at an early age, they can become problematic if they persist.

Our articulation speech therapy services in Baltimore and Houston focus on correcting these speech errors through interactive exercises and positive reinforcement. With consistent support, children begin to speak more clearly, improving both their communication and confidence.

Voice Therapy for Young Voices

Children can also experience voice disorders from overuse, vocal cord dysfunction, or medical conditions. Symptoms might include chronic hoarseness, breathiness, or vocal fatigue. Our voice therapy program helps children use their voices properly and comfortably, improving vocal health and quality.

A Supportive and Family-Focused Approach

We believe in partnering with parents every step of the way. Families are encouraged to be part of the therapy process so they can reinforce new skills at home and better understand their child’s communication journey. Our therapists offer guidance on home strategies and provide regular updates on progress.

Additionally, we offer therapy in settings that work best for the child, whether it’s in-office, in-home, or in school. This flexibility allows us to deliver care in the child’s most comfortable and functional environment.

Serving Baltimore and Houston with Excellence

With a presence in both Baltimore, MD, and Houston, TX, Total Speech Therapy is proud to support children across these communities. Our experienced, compassionate team is committed to helping each child reach their highest potential in communication and self-expression.

Whether your child is just starting to speak or needs support overcoming speech and language challenges, our team is here to help.

Unlock Your Child’s Potential Today

Don’t wait to give your child the tools they need to thrive. If you suspect your child may have a speech or language delay, early intervention is key. Let Total Speech Therapy be your partner in unlocking your child’s communication potential.📞 Call us today at 410-696-3301 (Baltimore) or 713-489-6697 (Houston). Empowering every child—one word at a time.

Children with cleft lip and/or palate encounter specific challenges, particularly regarding speech and communication. Although surgery can address the structural issues, ongoing therapy is frequently essential for helping these children achieve clear speech, enhance feeding skills, and build confidence. At Total Speech Therapy, we provide specialized, comprehensive therapy for cleft lip and palate in Baltimore and Houston, delivering compassionate, expert care customized to meet each child’s unique needs.

Understanding Cleft Lip and Palate

A cleft lip is characterized by a physical split in the upper lip, while a cleft palate involves an opening in the roof of the mouth. These conditions can be present independently or together and may impact a child’s ability to eat, breathe, hear, and, most crucially, articulate clearly. Since speech production relies on proper airflow and the coordination of the lips, tongue, and palate, children with these cleft conditions frequently face delays in speech development or challenges in producing sounds accurately. This is where speech therapy becomes vital.

The Role of Speech Therapy in Cleft Care

After surgical repair, many children continue to have difficulty with articulation (the ability to produce speech sounds) and resonance (how sound vibrates through the oral and nasal cavities). Without proper guidance, these issues can persist and impact academic performance, social interaction, and self-esteem.

At Total Speech Therapy, our speech-language pathologists (SLPs) assess each child’s specific challenges and develop a therapy plan focused on:

  • Improving articulation and sound clarity
  • Reducing hypernasality (excessive nasal sound)
  • Correcting compensatory speech patterns
  • Enhancing expressive and receptive language skills
  • Supporting feeding and swallowing when needed

We use engaging, evidence-based techniques that are tailored to the child’s age, abilities, and recovery stage.

Why Choose Total Speech Therapy?

Families choose Total Speech Therapy because we go beyond standard treatment protocols. Our team collaborates with pediatricians, surgeons, and other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to care. We understand that each child’s journey is unique, and we’re committed to helping them reach their full communication potential.

Here’s what makes us different:

  • One-on-one therapy sessions for focused attention
  • In-home and school-based services for convenience
  • Bilingual therapy options, if needed
  • Family education and support throughout the process
  • Ongoing assessments to track progress and adjust goals

We believe therapy should be accessible, empowering, and effective—especially for children overcoming the unique challenges posed by a cleft condition.

Early Intervention Matters

The earlier a child begins therapy, the better the outcomes tend to be. Even before surgery, speech-language pathologists can assist with feeding strategies and provide parents with tools to support language development at home. After surgery, consistent speech therapy helps ensure that the child develops proper muscle coordination for clear communication.

Delaying therapy may lead to entrenched speech habits that are more difficult to correct later. That’s why we encourage parents in Baltimore and Houston to reach out to Total Speech Therapy as soon as a diagnosis is made.

Support Beyond Speech

Cleft conditions can also impact a child’s confidence and willingness to speak in social situations. That’s why our therapy approach includes emotional encouragement and positive reinforcement. We celebrate every milestone—no matter how small—and work closely with families to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe and motivated to grow. At Total Speech Therapy, we’re passionate about helping children with cleft lip and palate communicate more freely, confidently, and joyfully. With our specialized cleft therapy services in Baltimore and Houston, we offer the guidance and expertise your child needs to thrive. To learn more or schedule an evaluation!

Facial symmetry significantly impacts both aesthetics and functional health. When the muscles of the face, tongue, and mouth fail to work together, it can result in various problems, including speech issues, misaligned bites, and even breathing difficulties. This is where Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) proves beneficial—it’s a specialized therapy designed to address the underlying causes of muscle imbalance, enhancing facial symmetry and overall oral function.

At Total Speech Therapy, we provide extensive Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy services in Baltimore and Houston, assisting clients of all ages in achieving improved muscle coordination, better health outcomes, and greater self-confidence. In this blog, we will delve into the details of OMT and its role in promoting facial symmetry and function.

Understanding Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is a treatment method aimed at correcting the function of orofacial muscles—the muscles around the face, mouth, jaw, and tongue. These muscles are essential for everyday activities such as eating, speaking, and breathing. Disruptive habits or improper development, such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or mouth breathing, can negatively impact facial growth and symmetry over time.

OMT employs targeted exercises to retrain these muscles for proper function, fostering more balanced facial development and long-term wellness.

How OMT Improves Facial Symmetry?

Facial symmetry is influenced by how muscles are used and how they develop. When one side of the face is used more or when muscles aren’t working properly, it can lead to imbalances. OMT promotes even muscle usage and proper alignment of the facial structure. Here’s how:

1. Correcting Tongue Posture

One of the primary goals of OMT is to correct tongue posture. The tongue plays a major role in shaping the palate and jaw during growth. When the tongue rests low or pushes forward (as in tongue thrust), it can lead to misaligned teeth and asymmetrical facial development. OMT helps train the tongue to rest properly against the roof of the mouth, supporting balanced growth of the facial structure.

2. Balancing Muscle Use

OMT strengthens underused muscles and relaxes overused ones. For example, children who breathe through their mouths often overuse certain facial muscles, which can lead to long, narrow faces and misaligned jaws. With proper breathing retraining and muscle coordination, OMT restores natural muscle balance, contributing to a more symmetrical facial appearance.

3. Enhancing Jaw Alignment

Jaw misalignment can significantly affect facial symmetry. OMT includes exercises that promote correct jaw function and positioning, which supports better alignment over time. This can also help reduce related issues such as TMJ disorders and grinding.

Additional Benefits of OMT

While improving facial symmetry is a key advantage, OMT offers a wide range of additional benefits, including:

  • Improved speech clarity
  • Better chewing and swallowing patterns
  • Reduced mouth breathing and associated health issues
  • Prevention of orthodontic relapse after braces
  • Enhanced sleep quality due to proper airway function

Who Can Benefit from OMT?

OMT is effective for both children and adults. Children benefit most when therapy is started early, especially if they show signs of tongue thrust, thumb sucking, or speech delays. Adults can also achieve great results, particularly those dealing with sleep apnea, TMJ pain, or long-term facial imbalances.

At Total Speech Therapy, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if OMT is the right fit and design a therapy plan tailored to individual needs.

Why Choose Total Speech Therapy?

With a team of experienced and certified speech-language pathologists, Total Speech Therapy offers evidence-based Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy in Baltimore and Houston. Our therapists work closely with each client to address the root causes of orofacial imbalances and help them achieve better symmetry, function, and confidence.

If you are experiencing signs of facial asymmetry, speech issues, or mouth breathing, consider Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy as a proactive solution. Contact Total Speech Therapy to schedule an evaluation and learn more about how we can help you build a healthier, more balanced future.

📍 Serving Baltimore & Houston
📞 Baltimore: 410-696-3301
📞 Houston: 713-489-6697

As a parent, seeing your child face challenges in communication can be both upsetting and perplexing. You wish to assist, but figuring out where to begin or whom to trust with your child’s growth can be daunting. Whether your child struggles with articulating sounds, using language effectively, or participating in conversations, speech therapy can provide transformative support.

At Total Speech Therapy, we aim to simplify this process. With skilled speech therapists located in Houston and a strong presence in Baltimore, we focus on offering tailored, high-quality care for children facing speech and language difficulties.

This guide will help you understand what to expect from children’s speech therapy, how to select the right speech pathologist in Houston, and how to position your child for lasting success.

Why Do Children Need Speech Therapy?

Speech therapy isn’t just for children who stutter or have difficulty pronouncing words. It can also support kids with:

  • Language delays (understanding or using words and sentences)
  • Social communication difficulties (like those with autism spectrum disorder)
  • Voice disorders (hoarse or nasal speech)
  • Feeding and swallowing issues
  • Developmental disorders such as apraxia or dysarthria

Speech therapy focuses on helping children develop the communication tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

When to Seek Help?

If you’ve noticed your child is behind peers in terms of communication, struggles to follow directions, or becomes frustrated trying to express themselves, it’s a good idea to consult a professional. The earlier you intervene, the better the outcome.

At Total Speech Therapy in Houston, we conduct detailed evaluations to understand your child’s unique challenges and strengths, allowing us to create a therapy plan tailored to their needs.

Choosing a Speech Therapist in Houston: What to Look For?

When choosing a speech therapist in Houston, keep the following in mind:

  • Experience with pediatric cases: Children require a different approach than adults. Our team specializes in children’s speech therapy and understands how to make sessions engaging and effective.
  • Qualifications and credentials: Look for licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with relevant experience and training in child development.
  • Family involvement: The best outcomes happen when therapists work collaboratively with families. At Total Speech Therapy, we guide parents on how to support communication goals at home.
  • Flexible scheduling and locations: Whether you prefer in-clinic sessions or at-home visits, we offer flexible options to fit your routine.

What to Expect from Children’s Speech Therapy in Houston?

Your child’s therapy journey will typically begin with a thorough evaluation to identify specific speech or language issues. Based on that assessment, our speech pathologist in Houston will design a customized treatment plan.

Therapy sessions may include:

  • Pronunciation and articulation exercises
  • Vocabulary and sentence-building activities
  • Role-playing to improve social skills
  • Techniques to improve voice quality and fluency
  • Parent coaching for home practice

Each child progresses at their own pace. Our therapists regularly review and adjust goals to ensure your child continues to grow.

Supporting Your Child’s Progress at Home

Parental involvement is a game-changer in speech therapy. Here are a few tips to support your child:

  • Practice daily: Use the strategies your therapist provides at home during conversations, reading time, or play.
  • Be patient and encouraging: Celebrate small milestones to keep motivation high.
  • Create a language-rich environment: Talk to your child often, ask open-ended questions, and expose them to new words and ideas.

Why Choose Total Speech Therapy?

Total Speech Therapy, with locations in both Houston and Baltimore, is dedicated to providing compassionate, expert-led care that achieves results. Our skilled team of speech therapists in Houston merges clinical excellence with a deep understanding of children’s emotional and developmental needs.

We believe every child deserves the opportunity to communicate with confidence. Allow us to assist your child in taking that crucial first step.

Every year, millions of adults experience strokes, resulting in a wide array of physical and cognitive challenges. Among the most difficult are communication issues that can isolate individuals from their families, communities, and professional lives. Fortunately, with advancements in speech and language therapy, stroke recovery has entered a new era. At Total Speech Therapy, which serves Baltimore and Houston, we are proud to be at the forefront of these developments, helping individuals reclaim their voices and confidence.

Understanding the Impact of Stroke on Communication

A stroke can impact several areas of the brain responsible for language and speech. Depending on the severity and location of the stroke, individuals may encounter aphasia (loss of the ability to understand or express speech), dysarthria (difficulty controlling the muscles used for speech), or apraxia (inability to coordinate the movements needed for speech).

These challenges can greatly diminish a person’s capacity to communicate effectively, which can lead to frustration, depression, and withdrawal from social interaction. However, the good news is that with the right therapy and support, significant improvement is achievable.

The Role of Speech Therapy in Stroke Recovery

Speech and language therapy play a crucial role in helping stroke survivors regain their communication abilities. At Total Speech Therapy, our experienced speech-language pathologists design personalized therapy plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Whether you’re recovering from a recent stroke or looking to improve long-term outcomes, our programs are built to restore confidence and function.

We provide services across both Baltimore and Houston, ensuring that residents have access to high-quality care close to home.

What’s New in Adult Stroke Therapy?

Stroke therapy is no longer a one-size-fits-all approach. At Total Speech Therapy, we utilize the latest tools, techniques, and technologies to optimize outcomes:

1. Teletherapy Options

For those who may have mobility challenges or prefer to receive care from home, we offer virtual speech therapy sessions. Our secure teletherapy platform allows patients to stay consistent with therapy without needing to travel.

2. Evidence-Based Practices

We apply proven methods such as Constraint-Induced Language Therapy (CILT) and Melodic Intonation Therapy (MIT) to stimulate speech areas of the brain and promote recovery. These techniques help rebuild neural connections and improve fluency and articulation.

3. Family Involvement and Support

Family engagement is key to success. We work closely with caregivers, offering training and strategies to help loved ones support patients between sessions and in their daily lives.

4. Use of Technology

Innovative tools like speech-generating devices, voice apps, and interactive language software allow for engaging, personalized practice. These tools can supplement in-person sessions and provide patients with ongoing opportunities to improve communication skills.

Why Choose Total Speech Therapy?

With locations in Baltimore, Maryland, and Houston, Texas, Total Speech Therapy is committed to empowering stroke survivors to regain their independence and reconnect with the world around them.

Our therapists bring years of experience and a deep understanding of neurogenic communication disorders. More importantly, we bring compassion, patience, and a genuine commitment to every client’s recovery journey.

We also collaborate with physicians, occupational therapists, and physical therapists to ensure that our clients receive comprehensive care that supports every aspect of their rehabilitation.

Begin Your Journey to Recovery Today!

If you or a loved one is navigating life after a stroke, know that you’re not alone. With the right therapy, tools, and support, recovery is not only possible—it can be transformative.Contact Total Speech Therapy today to schedule an evaluation at the Baltimore or Houston location. Let us help you take the first step toward clearer communication, restored confidence, and a better quality of life.