What Is Speech Therapy—and Who Is It For?
At APA Speech Therapy, we believe everyone deserves to be heard—exactly as they are. Speech therapy isn’t about “fixing” anyone. It’s about helping people of all ages express their thoughts, needs, and personalities with confidence.
Whether you're a parent concerned about your child’s speech, a teen struggling with communication at school, or an adult navigating voice or fluency challenges, speech therapy may be the supportive bridge you didn’t know you needed.
Let’s explore what speech therapy is, who it's for, and why it's about much more than pronunciation.
So, What Is Speech Therapy?
Speech therapy is a specialized service provided by Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and supported by Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs). It focuses on improving communication skills across several areas:
Speech – clarity and pronunciation of sounds
Language – understanding, vocabulary, and grammar
Social Communication – conversation, gestures, tone, and facial expressions
Fluency – smoothness of speech, such as managing stuttering
Voice – vocal tone, quality, and strength
Feeding/Swallowing – safe and effective eating, especially for infants or those with medical conditions
At APA, our team of licensed SLPs and compassionate, highly trained SLPAs work together to provide care that’s accessible, personalized, and grounded in respect for every individual’s unique communication journey.
Myths vs Facts
Although lisps and struggling with the R sound are very common, speech therapy can help with a wide range of challenges, from social skills to swallowing, at all ages.
Speech therapy is just for kids with a lisp or can’t say their R’s.
SLPAs (Speech-Language Pathology Assistants) play an essential role in supporting clients during their speech therapy journey. They work under the supervision of licensed SLPs to deliver sessions, support progress, and connect with clients.
Only SLPs (Speech- Language Pathologists) are able to provide speech therapy.
At APA Speech Therapy, we offer sessions in our cozy office, your home, or online via telepractice—because flexibility matters.
You must go to go to a clinic for speech therapy.
Kids can still struggle with language processing, social cues, or clarity, even if they speak a lot. Speech therapy supports how they communicate with others, not just if they do.
If your child talks, they don’t need therapy.
Adults seek speech therapy for many reasons—whether it’s recovering communication after a stroke, building fluency and confidence, improving vocal strength, or refining clarity for personal or professional growth. Communication needs evolve throughout life, and support should too.
Adults don’t need speech therapy.
Therapy is about building confidence, connection, and expression—not about being “fixed.” Everyone deserves the tools to communicate in their own way. Our voice is our power!
Therapy is only needed when there’s something “wrong.”
Teletherapy is research-backed and highly effective. Many families love the convenience, and kids and teens often enjoy interacting with digital tools and engaging in online activities. At APA Speech Therapy, we personalize virtual care to keep it fun, interactive, and effective.
Virtual speech therapy doesn’t work as well as in-person.
Who Can Benefit from Speech Therapy?
Infants & Toddlers
Limited words or gestures
Trouble feeding/swallowing
Delays in play or social interaction
Preschool & School-Age Children
Difficulty with sounds or speaking clearly
Trouble understanding or following directions
Struggles in storytelling or peer interaction
Teens & Young Adults
Stuttering, anxiety in communication
Social skills for friendships or job interviews
Executive functioning or memory-related language support
Adults & Seniors
Stroke recovery or brain injury support
Voice strain or hoarseness
Fluency or accent support for career and confidence
Why We Do What We Do
At APA Speech Therapy, our mission is to meet you where you are—with warmth, skill, and flexibility. Our SLPs and SLPAs work as a team to create a space where you don’t need to sound perfect—just be yourself. We’ll guide you or your child in developing the necessary tools to connect, share, laugh, advocate, and thrive.
Ready to Take the First Step?
We’re here to answer your questions, offer guidance, and walk with you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or an evaluation. Your voice is important, and we can’t wait to hear it!