Swallowing safety after stroke or illness
Specialty Care
Dysphagia and Swallowing Therapy
Dysphagia refers to the assessment and treatment of swallowing difficulties.
Quick Answer
Dysphagia at a glance
Dysphagia refers to the assessment and treatment of swallowing difficulties. Therapy focuses on improving swallowing function, ensuring safe eating practices, and developing strategies to manage the condition effectively.
- A common reason to seek help
- Swallowing safety after stroke or illness
- Another therapy focus
- Coughing or discomfort while eating and drinking
- Care options
- In-person therapy in the South Bay and secure teletherapy where licensure and clinical fit permit
- Clinical lead
- Siobhain McHale, M.S., CCC-SLP
How Therapy Helps
What we work on together
Therapy for dysphagia at Care to Speak starts with a comprehensive assessment that blends standardized testing with informal measures, then builds a customized, evidence-based treatment plan around your goals.
Coughing or discomfort while eating and drinking
Strategies and exercises for safer swallowing
Support for individuals with neurological conditions
Assessment
What a comprehensive evaluation may consider
Swallowing concerns require individualized clinical judgment. Assessment may include medical history, oral-motor function, eating and drinking trials, nutrition or respiratory concerns, and referral for an instrumental study when needed. Recommendations should never be made from website information alone.
Medical history, symptoms, nutrition, hydration, and respiratory status
Oral-motor function and observed eating or drinking when appropriate
Whether instrumental assessment or another medical referral is needed
Flexible Delivery
In person or online, wherever works
Sessions are available through secure teletherapy when professional licensure and clinical fit permit, in-person care at a welcoming South Bay office, school-based support, and group therapy where a peer setting helps. Your plan can combine formats as goals evolve.
Common Questions
How can I get started with Care to Speak?
Simply contact us through our intake form or schedule a discovery call. We will guide you through the next steps with care and clarity.
What can I expect during the initial evaluation?
The first session includes a mix of standardized assessments and informal observations. We will talk through your goals and needs and craft a personalized care plan.
Do you accept insurance?
We are an out-of-network provider. However, we can provide documentation to support your reimbursement process.
Take the next step, schedule a consultation today
Choose a time on Siobhain's calendar, or call if you prefer.