Speech and language therapy is a specialised healthcare profession focused on assessing, diagnosing, and treating communication, language, voice, and swallowing difficulties. Speech and language therapists (SLTs) are experts in the science and art of communication, language, voice, and safe swallowing. They design targeted interventions to help people express themselves, understand others, and eat and drink safely. Their work also supports speech clarity, language development, voice quality, social communication, and safe swallowing.

SLTs in Singapore help with a variety of conditions, including speech sound disorders, language delays, stuttering, voice problems, aphasia, dysarthria, cognitive-communication issues, and swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). They also support people with neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and traumatic brain injury, as well as children with developmental disorders, autism, or hearing loss.

In tertiary care and community rehab settings, SLTs work closely with multidisciplinary teams to address complex communication and swallowing needs. In rehab centres, they use evidence-based therapies and technology to improve speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing function. At home, SLTs help clients practise new skills in real-world settings, advise on safe mealtime strategies, and train caregivers to support ongoing progress. This ensures a smooth transition from intensive rehab to everyday life.

Consider SLT if you or your loved one is struggling to speak clearly, understand or use language, maintain a conversation, use your voice, or swallow safely. Early intervention is key for children not meeting speech or language milestones, adults with sudden or progressive communication changes, or anyone experiencing coughing, choking, or difficulty eating and drinking. SLTs can assess, diagnose, and provide tailored therapy to address these challenges and improve quality of life.