Imagine not being able to communicate simple thoughts such as “thank you” or “tell me a story.” Yet for many Americans with speech and language disorders, this is a reality. For them, words do not come easily. Anything that impairs your ability to communicate limits your life.
Since 1927, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has celebrated Better Hearing and Speech Month each May to raise public awareness of speech and language disorders that affect 14 million Americans.
The Communication Sciences & Disorders department (CMDS) on the campus of Ouachita Baptist University is participating in this awareness campaign through various venues. According to Dr. Nancy Hardman, a licensed speech-language pathologist and professor of CMDS, the local chapter of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) is providing Public Service Announcements to be aired on area radio and television stations. Additionally, informational brochures and posters will be placed in physician’s offices, schools, and daycares by members of this student group as a means to provide information about communication disorders.
Speech and language disorders can take many forms and can limit academic achievement, social adjustment, and career advancement. An individual may be born with a speech or language disorder, or it may be caused by accidental injury or illness. “Fortunately, most people with speech and language problems can be helped,” said Hardman. “Even if the problem cannot be eliminated, we can teach people with speech and language problems strategies to help them cope. People may not fully regain their capacity to speak and understand, but a speech-language pathologist can help them live more independently.”
As a component of the CMDS academic program, the OBU Speech-Language Clinic provides speech-language therapy services to clients of all ages. According to Hardman, “The therapy services provided by the CMDS students, allow a natural opportunity to connect classroom experiences and knowledge with a servant heart and attitude.” Speech-language pathologists are the professionals who treat all types of speech, language and related disorders. They hold at least a master’ s degree and are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. In Arkansas, they also are licensed by the state. Speech-language pathologists work in schools, private practice, hospitals, clinics and other health and education settings.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the national professional, scientific and credentialing association for more than 127,000 audiologists, speech-language pathologists and speech, language, and hearing scientists.
By Dr. Nancy Hardman, Press Release
