TERMINOLOGY

You’ve Got Questions - I’ve Got Answers

MS, CCC-SLP

Being "certified" (CCC) means holding the Certificate of Clinical Competence which is an internationally recognized professional credential that represents a level of excellence in the field of Speech Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). The MS in front represents that I hold a Masters of Science.

ASHA

ASHA - the American Speech and Hearing Association is the professional organization for Audiologists and Speech Language Pathologists.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Augmentative (supplemental) and Alternative (in place of) Communication are forms of communication that are not verbal speech. These supports can range from no or low tech supports like paper cards with symbols to high tech speech generating devices or drvides like an ipad that runs software with a robust language system consisting of thousands of words where the user can select icons or type words to communicate thoughts, ideas and needs.

APHASIA

Aphasia is an impairment of language and speech. Either expression or comprehension of language and/or speech. Usually caused by brain damage.

APRAXIA

A motor speech disorder that affects the ability to speak. Can occur in children as a developmental speech disorder or in adults as a result of brain damage.

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS

Executive Functions are the skills that allow us to be successful in life. Each person develops them at different rates. They include: metacognition, organization, working memory, planning, time management and emotional control among other things. They do not fully develop until around age 30+ and can be improved at any age!

IEP

Individualized Education Plan. This is an explanation of services a child receives at school including special education, speech, occupation and/or physical therapy, Adaptive Physical Education (APE) and other services. It is created by the student's special education teacher and/or speech pathologist and modified by entire team including student if age appropriate and their parents.

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS

Autism is defined as a range of conditions that are characterized by challenges with social skills, sensory interaction, repetitive behaviors, speech and communication. Each Autistic person is unique. Only a doctor can provide a diagnosis of Autism given information provided from a team of professionals. In the Autistic community, the overwhelming consensus is to be referred to as an Autistic person, not person with Autism.

THE SKLAR METHOD

Marydee Sklar developed the Sklar Method and the program called Seeing My Time. This program focuses on time management, organization and planning skills for students in grades 5/6 into adulthood. This program along with individual and group training can provide skills to assist with many aspects of life. I am trained in this program and have seen it transform lives. Although I use the programming and materials, I am not affiliated directly with the Seeing My Time franchise.

DIR FLOORTIME

DIR Floortime is a method of interaction and relationship building therapy created by psychologists Stanley Greenspan PhD and Serena Wielder PhD. It stands for Developmental Individual Difference Relationship Based Model.