---
title: Communication Matters | Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center Blog | Speech therapy
description: Speech therapy | Our vision is a community where every individual communicates effectively.
---

- CHSC Services & Programs 
    - Speech-Language & Literacy 
          - [Services for Adults](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/speech-language-services-for-adults/)
          - [Services for Children](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/speech-language-literacy-services-for-children/)
          - [Contract Services](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/community-contract-services-speech-language-literacy/)
          - [Project ELLA](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/project-ella/)
    - Hearing Services 
          - [Hearing Evaluations and Testing](https://www.chsc.org/hearing-services/hearing-evaluations-and-testing/)
          - [Hearing Aids & Other Hearing Services](https://www.chsc.org/hearing-services/hearing-aids-other-hearing-services/)
          - [Early Intervention Service](https://www.chsc.org/hearing-services/early-intervention-service/)
    - Language Interpreting 
          - [Language Interpreting Options](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/american-sign-language-interpreting-services/)
          - [American Sign Language Interpreting](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/american-sign-language-interpreting/)
          - [Spoken Language Interpreting](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/spoken-language-interpreting/)
          - [Book an American Sign Language Interpreter](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/book-an-american-sign-language-interpreter/)
- Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing 
    - [Welcome to CCDHH](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/welcome-to-ccdhh/)
    - [Vocational Rehabilitation Services](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/vocational-rehabilitation-services/)
    - [Support Services and Advocacy](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/support-services-and-advocacy/)
    - [Ohio Clinician Mental Health Training](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/ohio-clinician-mental-health-training/)
    - [American Sign Language (ASL) Classes](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/american-sign-language-asl-classes/)
- Locations 
    - [University Circle](https://www.chsc.org/contact/main-center-university-circle-location)
    - [Broadview Heights](https://www.chsc.org/contact/broadview-heights-location)
    - [Lyndhurst](https://www.chsc.org/contact/lyndhurst-location)
    - [Westlake](https://www.chsc.org/contact/westlake-location)
    - [Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing](https://www.chsc.org/contact/community-center-for-the-deaf-hard-of-hearing)
- Giving Back 
    - [Ways to Give](https://www.chsc.org/giving/ways-to-give/)
    - [Corporate Philanthropy](https://www.chsc.org/giving/ways-to-give/corporate-philanthropy/)
    - [Fundraising & Events](https://www.chsc.org/giving/ways-to-give/fundraising-events/)
- About Us 
    - [About CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/about/about-chsc/)
    - [Board of Directors](https://www.chsc.org/about/board-of-directors/)
    - [Leadership](https://www.chsc.org/about/leadership/)
    - [CHSC Staff](https://www.chsc.org/about/chsc-staff/)
    - [Join the CHSC Team](https://www.chsc.org/about/careers/)
    - [New Partners of CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/about/new-partners-of-chsc/)
    - [Volunteer at CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/about/volunteer/)
    - [News & Events](https://www.chsc.org/about/events-calendar/)
    - [Blog](https://www.chsc.org/about/chsc-blog/)
    - [Strategic Plan](https://wwwchsc.org/about/strategic-plan/)
    - [Community Partners](https://www.chsc.org/about/community-partners/)
    - [Our History](https://www.chsc.org/about/our-history/)
- [Ask CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/ask-chsc/)

[![chsc-logo](https://blog.chsc.org/hs-fs/hubfs/LOGOS/chsc-logo.png?width=350&height=101&name=chsc-logo.png)](http://www.chsc.org) [216-231-8787](tel:+1-216-231-8787)

- [216-231-8787](tel:+1-216-231-8787)
- [Request Appointment](https://share.hsforms.com/1H4Q3P8MbSnma6-uuosE5Qg1y7i5)
- [Book an Interpreter]({site_url}language-interpreting-services/book-an-american-sign-language-interpreter/)
- [Donate Now](https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E353984&id=11)

[Client Portal](http://www.hearinghealthportal.com) [Make a Payment](https://pay.gravitypayments.com/link/aa90206b54267fa6992c)

[![Opti-Speech Clinical Trial at CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/images/uploads/general/Benefit_web_banner.jpg)](https://transactions.chsc.org/CampaignForm/CHSC/Illuminating+Communication+2018+Benefit)

- CHSC Services & Programs 
    - Speech-Language & Literacy 
          - [Services for Adults](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/speech-language-services-for-adults/)
          - [Services for Children](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/speech-language-literacy-services-for-children/)
          - [Contract Services](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/community-contract-services-speech-language-literacy/)
          - [Project ELLA](https://www.chsc.org/speech-language/project-ella/)
    - Hearing Services 
          - [Hearing Evaluations and Testing](https://www.chsc.org/hearing-services/hearing-evaluations-and-testing/)
          - [Hearing Aids & Other Hearing Services](https://www.chsc.org/hearing-services/hearing-aids-other-hearing-services/)
          - [Early Intervention Service](https://www.chsc.org/hearing-services/early-intervention-service/)
    - Language Interpreting 
          - [Language Interpreting Options](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/american-sign-language-interpreting-services/)
          - [American Sign Language Interpreting](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/american-sign-language-interpreting/)
          - [Spoken Language Interpreting](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/spoken-language-interpreting/)
          - [Book an American Sign Language Interpreter](https://www.chsc.org/language-interpreting-services/book-an-american-sign-language-interpreter/)
- Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing 
    - [Welcome to CCDHH](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/welcome-to-ccdhh/)
    - [Vocational Rehabilitation Services](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/vocational-rehabilitation-services/)
    - [Support Services and Advocacy](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/support-services-and-advocacy/)
    - [Ohio Clinician Mental Health Training](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/ohio-clinician-mental-health-training/)
    - [American Sign Language (ASL) Classes](https://www.chsc.org/community-services/american-sign-language-asl-classes/)
- Locations 
    - [University Circle](https://www.chsc.org/contact/main-center-university-circle-location)
    - [Broadview Heights](https://www.chsc.org/contact/broadview-heights-location)
    - [Lyndhurst](https://www.chsc.org/contact/lyndhurst-location)
    - [Westlake](https://www.chsc.org/contact/westlake-location)
    - [Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing](https://www.chsc.org/contact/community-center-for-the-deaf-hard-of-hearing)
- Giving Back 
    - [Ways to Give](https://www.chsc.org/giving/ways-to-give/)
    - [Corporate Philanthropy](https://www.chsc.org/giving/ways-to-give/corporate-philanthropy/)
    - [Fundraising & Events](https://www.chsc.org/giving/ways-to-give/fundraising-events/)
- About Us 
    - [About CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/about/about-chsc/)
    - [Board of Directors](https://www.chsc.org/about/board-of-directors/)
    - [Leadership](https://www.chsc.org/about/leadership/)
    - [CHSC Staff](https://www.chsc.org/about/chsc-staff/)
    - [Join the CHSC Team](https://www.chsc.org/about/careers/)
    - [New Partners of CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/about/new-partners-of-chsc/)
    - [Volunteer at CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/about/volunteer/)
    - [News & Events](https://www.chsc.org/about/events-calendar/)
    - [Blog](https://www.chsc.org/about/chsc-blog/)
    - [Strategic Plan](https://wwwchsc.org/about/strategic-plan/)
    - [Community Partners](https://www.chsc.org/about/community-partners/)
    - [Our History](https://www.chsc.org/about/our-history/)
- [Ask CHSC](https://www.chsc.org/ask-chsc/)

# Communication Matters

## [What is Vocal Hygiene](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-vocal-hygiene)

[Alicia Verhovitz, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/alicia-verhovitz-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  February 02, 2024

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/PHOTOS%20SPEECH/Voice.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-vocal-hygiene)

What is Vocal Hygiene?

Vocal hygiene is a term used to describe habits and routines used to support a healthy and strong voice. Just as good oral hygiene can help protect your teeth as you age, vocal hygiene can help you preserve a strong, resonant voice.

Vocal Hygiene Tips

1. Drink More Water: Try a minimum of eight 8 oz glasses of water or other noncaffeinated non-acidic beverage per day, avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages. (NOTE: please speak with your medical provider to ensure consumption of a higher volume of water will not impact any medications you are currently taking.)  

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-vocal-hygiene)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Voice](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/voice), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy)

## [Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for Adults](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/augmentative-and-alternative-communication-aac-for-adults)

[Alicia Verhovitz, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/alicia-verhovitz-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  September 09, 2023

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/iStock-1359550143.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/augmentative-and-alternative-communication-aac-for-adults)

**What is AAC?**

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/augmentative-and-alternative-communication-aac-for-adults)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Support](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/support), [Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke), [Caregiving](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/caregiving), [Brain Injury](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/brain-injury), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Communication Access](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication-access), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [Stroke recovery](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke-recovery), [Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/aphasia), [Primary Progressive Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/primary-progressive-aphasia)

## [Care Partner vs Care Giver](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/care-partner-vs-care-giver)

[Kacey Riga, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/kacey-riga-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  June 06, 2023

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/PHOTOS%20SPEECH/Talking%20to%20mom.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/care-partner-vs-care-giver)

Those caring for adults with speech, language, and cognitive challenges serve an important role in the healthcare management team. These challenges may be a result of medical diagnoses such as dementia, stroke, and ALS, or occur independently. No matter the etiology, support is often necessary to help individuals reach their goals. Due to the nature of this role, we are beginning to shift our perspective on how to most effectively refer to these individuals: care *partner* vs. care *giver.*

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/care-partner-vs-care-giver)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Support](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/support), [Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke), [Caregiving](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/caregiving), [Brain Injury](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/brain-injury), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [Stroke recovery](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke-recovery), [Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/aphasia), [Primary Progressive Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/primary-progressive-aphasia)

## [Aphasia or Primary Progressive Aphasia?](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/aphasia-or-primary-progressive-aphasia)

[Alicia Verhovitz, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/alicia-verhovitz-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  March 03, 2023

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/PHOTOS%20SPEECH/senior%20with%20nurse.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/aphasia-or-primary-progressive-aphasia)

**Aphasia** is a [**language disorder**](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-a-speech-language-disorder) resulting from an injury to the brain, such as a stroke or head trauma. The outcome of aphasia varies significantly from person to person. The most predictive indicator of long-term recovery is initial aphasia severity, along with the lesion site (location of damage to the brain) and the size of the lesion

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/aphasia-or-primary-progressive-aphasia)

 Tags: [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke), [Caregiving](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/caregiving), [Brain Injury](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/brain-injury), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Communication Access](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication-access), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [Stroke recovery](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke-recovery), [Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/aphasia), [Primary Progressive Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/primary-progressive-aphasia)

## [Supported Conversations for Adults with Aphasia (SCA)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/supported-conversations-for-adults-with-aphasia-sca)

[Kacey Riga, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/kacey-riga-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  November 11, 2022

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/PHOTOS%20SPEECH/Talking%20to%20mom.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/supported-conversations-for-adults-with-aphasia-sca)

If you know someone who is [recovering from a stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/stroke-recovery-a-whole-life-approach) or other acquired brain injury, you may have experienced a heightened level of difficulty when participating in conversations. [Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-aphasia), or language difficulties as a result of a stroke, [can impact a person’s ability to express themselves](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-dysarthria) or understand information. This breakdown in communication can lead to feelings of [isolation and distress.](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/stroke-and-depression-connection)

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/supported-conversations-for-adults-with-aphasia-sca)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Support](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/support), [Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke), [Caregiving](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/caregiving), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Communication Access](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication-access), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [Stroke recovery](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke-recovery), [Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/aphasia)

## [What is Language?](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-language)

[Rebecca Mental, Ph.D., CCC-SLP Director of Speech, Language, and Learning Services](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/rebecca-mental-ph.d.-ccc-slp-director-of-speech-language-and-learning-services) | Posted on  September 09, 2022

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/CHSC%20BANNERS/blog-hero.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-language)

Language is how a mother tells her baby "I love you" with a sing-song voice. It's how a 3-year-old tells a knock-knock joke while trying to hold back their laughter. It's how a teacher explains the rules of long division to her fidgety students. Language connects us, and language helps us learn.

At the most basic level, language is a set of symbols that a community has agreed upon to stand for objects and ideas. You use these symbols to talk listen, read, and write. In the case of [American Sign Language](https://www.chsc.org/community-center-for-the-deaf-hard-of-hearing/sign-language-classes/), you use language to produce signs and interpret signs. Having effective language skills means that you can express your ideas and can understand when others express their ideas. Language is uniquely human, and babies begin to build the foundation for language even before they are born!

It can be helpful to think about the difference between language and speech. When your child says "I wuv my wed twuck," (I love my red truck), it doesn't sound right - that's the speech part - but she is sharing her thoughts on something she really likes - that's the language part.

Language includes which words you know and which words you chose to use. It is how you put those words together, the tone of voice that you use, and whether the person across from you understands what you mean. You use language to solve story problems in math class and write an essay in English class. Language skills are what allow you to build relationships with your family and friends.

Not having access to language is frustrating. Imagine being dropped in the middle of a foreign country with a pounding headache. You need to find a drug store, but how would you communicate what you need? How would you understand directions if someone did figure out what you were trying to say? You're in pain, you're confused, and you can't get your problem solved.

Now think of a two-and-a-half-year-old boy who doesn't yet say any words. His head is full of wants and needs, but he has no clear way of letting others know what they are. He also has trouble understanding what his parents want him to do when they give him simple directions. He often throws things when he can't be understood or doesn't understand what his parents want him to do. All of this is because he has difficulty with speaking and listening, that is, with language.

Language underpins everything we do, and having difficulty with language skills at any age means you can't fully participate in everyday life. [Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center](https://www.chsc.org/contact/) has a [team of licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs)](https://www.chsc.org/staff/view/category/speech-language-and-learning) with expertise in building language skills.

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-language)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [literacy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/literacy), [Learning](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/learning), [Voice](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/voice), [toddler](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/toddler), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Early Intervention](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/early-intervention), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy)

## [Summer Activities to Practice Word-Finding for Those with Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/summer-activities-to-practice-word-finding-for-those-with-aphasia)

[Alicia Verhovitz, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/alicia-verhovitz-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  June 06, 2022

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/PHOTOS%20SPEECH/iStock-CROP.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/summer-activities-to-practice-word-finding-for-those-with-aphasia)

[Communicating with someone recovering from a stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/stroke-recovery-communication-tips-for-people-with-aphasia) or maintaining skills after a neurodegenerative diagnosis may be difficult. Changes in communicative abilities can be either expressive (the ability to speak or communicate) or receptive (the ability to understand spoken or written information), leading to breakdowns in communication. Any [changes in communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/common-communication-difficulties-of-stroke-survivors) can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, or distress. We offer some fun summer activities to help practice word-finding and repair communication breakdowns. These activities require little if any, materials or preparation to engage! 

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/summer-activities-to-practice-word-finding-for-those-with-aphasia)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke), [Brain Injury](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/brain-injury), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [Stroke recovery](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke-recovery), [Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/aphasia)

## [Stroke Recovery: Communication Tips for People with Aphasia](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/stroke-recovery-communication-tips-for-people-with-aphasia)

[Alicia Verhovitz, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/alicia-verhovitz-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  June 06, 2022

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/PHOTOS%20SPEECH/Talking%20to%20mom.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/stroke-recovery-communication-tips-for-people-with-aphasia)

**Take your time when speaking.** Speak at your own pace. Even if your communication partner is speaking quickly, set your pace and take your time. Your message is important and deserves to be heard.

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/stroke-recovery-communication-tips-for-people-with-aphasia)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Support](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/support), [Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke), [Caregiving](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/caregiving), [Brain Injury](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/brain-injury), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Communication Access](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication-access), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [Stroke recovery](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke-recovery)

## [Ultrasound Speech Therapy Tackles "R" and "S" Difficulties](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/ultrasound-speech-therapy-tackles-r-and-s-difficulties)

[Rebecca Mental, Ph.D., CCC-SLP Director of Speech, Language, and Learning Services](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/rebecca-mental-ph.d.-ccc-slp-director-of-speech-language-and-learning-services) | Posted on  May 05, 2022

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/Ultrasound%201.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/ultrasound-speech-therapy-tackles-r-and-s-difficulties)

Does your child struggle with producing the “r” sound? Do they have a slushy “s” sound? If this is true for your child who is 8 years of age or older, they have what is called residual speech sound disorder (RSSD). Many children with RSSD have been in years of therapy with little to no improvement in their speech. This can be frustrating and discouraging for both the child and their parents.  

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/ultrasound-speech-therapy-tackles-r-and-s-difficulties)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [ultrasound](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/ultrasound), [ultrasound speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/ultrasound-speech-therapy), [R speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/r-speech-therapy)

## [Tips for Communicating with Someone after a Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/tips-for-communicating-with-someone-after-a-stroke)

[Alicia Verhovitz, M.A., CCC-SLP](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/alicia-verhovitz-m-a-ccc-slp) | Posted on  April 04, 2022

[![](https://blog.chsc.org/hubfs/PHOTOS%20SPEECH/Talking%20to%20mom.jpg)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/tips-for-communicating-with-someone-after-a-stroke)

Communicating with someone after they have had a stroke, brain injury, or other illness resulting in [communication difficulties](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/what-is-dysarthria) can be challenging. These difficulties can be either expressive (the ability to speak or communicate) or receptive (the ability to understand spoken or written information), leading to breakdowns in communication. Any changes in communication can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, or distress. Making a few changes in the way you communicate can make a world of difference!

[Read More](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/tips-for-communicating-with-someone-after-a-stroke)

 Tags: [Speech](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech), [Language](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/language), [Communication](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/communication), [Stroke](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke), [Caregiving](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/caregiving), [Brain Injury](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/brain-injury), [talking](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/talking), [Speech therapy](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/speech-therapy), [Stroke recovery](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/topic/stroke-recovery)

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## Comments

### Blog Categories

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see all

### Authors

- [Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center (32)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/cleveland-hearing-speech-center)
- [Bridgid M. Whitford Au.D, CCC-A (25)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/bridgid-m-whitford-au-d-ccc-a)
- [Sharon Dundee (21)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/sharon-dundee)
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- [Alicia Verhovitz, M.A., CCC-SLP (10)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/alicia-verhovitz-m-a-ccc-slp)
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- [Akilah Porter (3)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/akilah-porter)
- [Rachel Lester, BS, Audiology Intern (3)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/rachel-lester-bs-audiology-intern)
- [Rebecca Mental, Ph.D., CCC-SLP Director of Speech, Language, and Learning Services (3)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/rebecca-mental-ph.d.-ccc-slp-director-of-speech-language-and-learning-services)
- [Jennell C. Vick, Ph.D., CCC-SLP (3)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/jennell-c.-vick-ph.d.-ccc-slp)
- [Stephanie Vondra, M.A., CCC-SLP (2)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/stephanie-vondra-m.a.-ccc-slp)
- [Michelle Foye, M.A., CCC-SLP, Director of Speech Language & Learning Services (2)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/michelle-foye-m-a-ccc-slp-director-of-speech-language-learning-services)
- [Kacey Riga, M.A., CCC-SLP (2)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/kacey-riga-m-a-ccc-slp)
- [Chana Feinstein, M.A., CCC-SLP (2)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/chana-feinstein-m-a-ccc-slp)
- [Michelle Kurfiss M.A. CCC-SLP (2)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/michelle-kurfiss-m-a-ccc-slp)
- [Casey Ring, CCDHH Learning Center Manager (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/casey-ring-ccdhh-learning-center-manager)
- [Samantha Taylor (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/samantha-taylor)
- [Dalit Burgess, Coordinator of School Services, Senior Speech-Language Pathologist (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/dalit-burgess-coordinator-of-school-services-senior-speech-language-pathologist)
- [Rebecca Mental, Ph.D., MPH, CCC-SLP (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/rebecca-mental-ph-d-mph-ccc-slp)
- [Jordan Brian, Sign Language Interpreter (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/jordan-brian-sign-language-interpreter)
- [Dalit Burgess, M.S., CCC-SLP, Senior Speech-Language Pathologist; Coordinator of Professional and School Services (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/dalit-burgess-m-s-ccc-slp-senior-speech-language-pathologist-coordinator-of-professional-and-school-services)
- [Maria O’Neil Ruddock, Psy.D. (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/maria-oneil-ruddock-psy-d)
- [Jennell Vick, Ph.D., CCC-SLP (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/jennell-vick-ph-d-ccc-slp)
- [Michelle Parker-Armstrong, Office Coordinator for CCDHH (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/michelle-parker-armstrong-office-coordinator-for-ccdhh)
- [Jonathan Plessner, CCC-SLP (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/jonathan-plessner-ccc-slp)
- [Elizabeth Divis, M.A. CCC-SLP (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/elizabeth-divis-m-a-ccc-slp)
- [Sarita Cornwall, Support Services & Community Outreach Specialist (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/sarita-cornwall-support-services-community-outreach-specialist)
- [Ruth Clark, MA., CCC-A (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/ruth-clark-ma-ccc-a)
- [Carol Theil, CCC-SLP (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/carol-theil-ccc-slp)
- [Jerry Hayes, PsyD and Maria O’Neil Ruddock, PsyD (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/hayes-oneil)
- [Angela Gartner, Editor, NEO Parent Magazine (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/angela-gartner-editor-neo-parent-magazine)
- [Reprinted with permission from the Annie E. Casey Foundation (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/reprinted-with-permission-from-the-annie-e-casey-foundation)
- [Anne M. Calic MA CCC-SLP (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/anne-m-calic-ma-ccc-slp)
- [Jessica Blakeman CCC-SLP, Speech-Language Pathologist, (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/jessica-blakeman-ccc-slp-speech-language-pathologist)
- [Rebecca Mental, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Director of Research and Jonathan Plessner, M.A., CCC-SLP, Speech-Language Pathologist (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/rebecca-mental-ph-d-ccc-slp-director-of-research-and-jonathan-plessner-m-a-ccc-slp-speech-language-pathologist)
- [Debbie Dey (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/debbie-dey)
- [Casey Ring, Learning Center Manager (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/casey-ring-learning-center-manager)
- [Kellie Vaughan, M.A., CCC-SLP (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/kellie-vaughan-m-a-ccc-slp)
- [Dr. Jennell C. Vick (1)](https://blog.chsc.org/blog/author/dr-jennell-c-vick)

see all

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