Voice Therapy

Voice Therapy

Voice therapy is directed by a speech-language pathologist, preferably one who is specialized in the area of voice. The goal of any voice therapy program is to achieve a person’s optimal vocal quality. Much like physical therapy, voice therapy combines various exercises and techniques. Therapy can include  but it not limited to, relaxing tense muscles, strengthening weak muscles, increasing voice flexibility and improving respiratory support. Therapy for upper airway disorders includes a similar approach by combining various techniques to allow for control of breathing and throat musculature.

Treatment for the voice is typically not long term. It can be a brief as 1 to 2 sessions or could take 10 to 12 sessions. This is dependent on a person’s response to treatment and the type of voice disorder.

The speech pathologist will perform a thorough evaluation that includes a patient interview, perceptual voice evaluation, acoustic analysis, and diagnostic therapy when appropriate. A diagnosis can be made with regards to severity of the voice problem. An otolaryngologist (ear, nose, throat physician) will provide a diagnosis regarding any structural abnormalities (such as, vocal nodules). A team approach with the physician and speech pathologist will usually include a videostroboscopic evaluation (for more detailed information, refer to our Voice Lab).