Many professionals assume that leadership presence is an innate quality. You either have it or you do not. In reality, it is a skill that can be developed with the right strategies and support.

At Arbutus Speech Therapy, we help adults across British Columbia refine their speech, voice, and communication habits to project leadership presence with clarity and authenticity.

What Is Leadership Presence and Why Does It Matter?

Leadership presence refers to the ability to command attention, inspire confidence, and communicate effectively in professional environments. It goes beyond what you say. It is how you say it and how your message resonates with others.

Research consistently shows that communication skills are a critical factor in leadership effectiveness. However, many talented individuals struggle with:

These patterns can unintentionally undermine your expertise and limit how others perceive your leadership potential.

The good news is that these skills can be improved through targeted support from a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP).

Clinical Strategies to Strengthen Leadership Presence

1. Developing Vocal Authority

Your voice carries significant weight in how others perceive your confidence and leadership capability. If your voice sounds weak, tense, or inconsistent, it can affect your credibility regardless of your qualifications.

An SLP can work with you to:

With these tools, your voice will reflect the leadership qualities you want to convey.

2. Enhancing Speech Clarity and Precision

Clear speech is essential for delivering complex ideas and building trust. Listeners need to understand you the first time, especially in fast-paced environments.

Speech therapy focuses on:

These refinements help ensure your message is delivered with precision and confidence.

3. Mastering Communication Pace and Rhythm

Speaking too quickly is often a response to nerves, while speaking too slowly can reduce engagement. Striking the right balance projects calm authority and keeps your audience focused.

An SLP can guide you through:

Consistent pacing improves how others perceive your composure and command of the situation.

3. Addressing Accent or Pronunciation Concerns (if applicable)

For many professionals in British Columbia who speak English as an additional language, certain accent features can occasionally affect clarity. This is especially true in high-pressure leadership settings.

Accent modification with an SLP focuses on:

This ensures that your message is understood clearly and consistently, without diminishing your personal identity.

4. Managing Speaking Anxiety and Nonverbal Communication

Leadership presence is not just about voice. It is also about how you manage anxiety and convey confidence through body language and non-verbal cues.

Speech therapy support often includes:

When these elements align with strong speech habits, your leadership presence becomes more authentic and effective.

5. Real-World Applications for Strong Leadership Presence

Clients often seek our support for:

Regardless of the setting, your ability to project leadership through speech and presence can open doors and enhance your impact.

Professional Support for Lasting Change

Leadership presence is a skill that evolves with practice and expert guidance. At Arbutus Speech Therapy, we provide individualized support to help you communicate with confidence, clarity, and authority.

Many extended health benefits plans in British Columbia cover speech therapy services for adults, including those focused on professional communication and leadership development.

We offer free consultations to discuss your goals and explore how speech therapy can support your success.

Contact us for a free consultation today.

The post Mastering Leadership Presence: A Speech-Language Pathologist’s Guide to Executive Communication appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

Meet Sarah. She’s a talented project manager who leads a team of eight people. Her skills are top-notch, but she often struggles with projecting her voice in larger meetings and finds herself using fillers like “um” and “you know,” which makes her sound less confident. Like many people, Sarah turned to speech therapy to unlock her full potential at work.

Sarah’s story isn’t unique. Many professionals face similar challenges, and speech therapy can help. Here’s how speech therapy can empower you to communicate with clarity and confidence, allowing your ideas to shine.

Common Communication Challenges in the Workplace

You’re not alone if you find yourself facing any of these:

• Lack of clarity: Not being clearly understood can impact how others view your ideas.
• Voice projection issues: Soft-spoken professionals may struggle in group settings.
• Fillers and hesitations: “Um,” “uh,” or “like” can distract from your message.
• Accent or dialect differences: Sometimes, accent patterns or regional dialects make communication harder in diverse settings.
• Social communication: Misinterpreting body language or non-verbal cues can lead to misunderstandings.

Each of these challenges can hold back even the most skilled professional, but they don’t have to. With the right guidance, you can develop the skills to communicate clearly and with confidence.

How Speech Therapy Can Boost Your Communication at Work

Speech therapy offers tools and strategies for tackling the core areas of workplace communication:

1. Clear Articulation and Pronunciation
   • “If you don’t say it clearly, they won’t hear it clearly.” Through practice in articulation, a speech therapist helps you pronounce sounds more accurately so your ideas come across clearly.
   • Exercises for improving articulation ensure your message is always understood.
2. Voice Control and Projection
   • Do you find yourself speaking softly or mumbling in meetings? Many people do!
   • Therapy helps you find your natural volume and pitch, enhancing your ability to engage an audience and appear more confident.
3. Reducing Fillers and Speaking Rate
   • A common frustration for many professionals is relying on fillers like “um” or “uh.” Therapy sessions include techniques for slowing down, taking natural pauses, and using silence to your advantage.
   • Developing awareness and control over these habits makes you sound more polished and credible.
4. Accent Modification and Dialect Awareness
   • For non-native speakers or those with regional dialects, modifying certain sounds or phrases can improve mutual understanding without losing personal identity.
   • Accent coaching by an SLP can refine specific sounds, making it easier for you to communicate in diverse settings.
5. Mastering Non-Verbal Communication
   • Communication is more than just words. Body language, eye contact, and facial expressions all play a role.
   • By working on these non-verbal cues, you’ll build a fuller, more authentic style that connects with people.

Sarah’s Journey to Confident Communication

When Sarah began speech therapy, her goals were to improve her projection, reduce fillers, and gain control over her speaking pace. Her therapist started by helping her focus on breath control exercises to support her voice, then added role-playing exercises to simulate her day-to-day challenges. With time, she learned to replace “um” with pauses, creating a more deliberate and impactful delivery.

Through persistence and practice, Sarah now leads meetings with confidence, knowing that her voice will carry and her words will be heard. As she puts it, “The difference speech therapy made wasn’t just in my speech—it changed my confidence.”

The Speech Therapy Process: What to Expect

Getting started is easy and flexible. Here’s a step-by-step of what to expect in speech therapy at Arbutus Speech Therapy:

• Step 1: Initial Assessment
  We begin by understanding your goals and challenges. A therapist will assess your current communication patterns, strengths, and areas for improvement.
• Step 2: Tailored Plan
  Based on the assessment, a personalized plan is created. This plan may include practice in articulation, voice exercises, or social communication strategies, depending on your goals.
• Step 3: Practicing Real-Life Scenarios
  During sessions, you’ll practice real-life scenarios, like leading a team meeting or speaking in front of an audience. These role-plays help you apply techniques directly to your work life.
• Step 4: Tracking Progress
  You and your therapist will review progress regularly, celebrating improvements and setting new milestones. Each step forward builds confidence and communication skills.

Why Confidence in Communication Matters

Imagine being able to express yourself freely in any setting. Speech therapy doesn’t just improve how you speak; it transforms how you feel about speaking. As one client put it, “I used to worry that my ideas wouldn’t be taken seriously because of my accent. Now, I feel comfortable and confident sharing my perspective.”

Get Started on Your Communication Journey Today

Effective communication opens doors in any profession. If you’re ready to take your communication skills to the next level, Arbutus Speech Therapy is here to help. Our friendly, qualified therapists will work with you at your pace and support your unique communication journey.

Ready to begin? Book your free consultation today and discover the confidence that comes from clear, effective communication.

The post Speech Therapy for Professionals: Elevate Your Communication Skills at Work appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

1. Tune in to Native Speakers

Just like musicians learn by listening to great music, one of the most effective ways to improve your accent is to immerse yourself in the sounds and rhythms of native speakers. Pay close attention to the pronunciation, stress patterns, intonation, and pacing in conversations, podcasts, or audio materials. By actively listening, you start picking up the nuances and subtleties that make up a native accent.

Then, take a page out of a musician’s book: practice mimicking the sounds and patterns you hear. By repeating phrases or sentences, focusing on reproducing the precise pronunciation and intonation, you can internalize the rhythm and melody of the language. It’s like learning a new song; regular practice and repetition will help train your vocal muscles and improve your ability to reproduce the sounds accurately.

2. Join the Conversation

Language learning thrives on active engagement and practice. Just as musicians jam together, engaging in conversations with native speakers or language partners can significantly help improve your accent. Find opportunities to converse, either through language exchange programs, online communities, or language meetups.

During these exchanges, focus on articulating the sounds, stress, and intonation patterns accurately, applying what you’ve learned from listening and mimicking native speakers. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback – every musician appreciates a good critique! Recording your conversations and listening back can also be immensely helpful. This self-evaluation allows you to pinpoint specific areas for improvement, enabling you to tune your accent gradually.

3. Team Up with a Speech Therapist

Just like a music teacher, a qualified speech therapist can be an invaluable guide in your accent improvement journey. A speech therapist with expertise in accent modification can provide personalized assessments and targeted interventions to address your specific challenges.

They will analyze your current accent, identify areas that need improvement, and develop a customized plan to enhance your pronunciation. Their expert guidance, through exercises and techniques, can target specific speech sounds, stress patterns, and intonation features that may be hindering your accent. Just like a music teacher provides immediate feedback and corrective strategies, a speech therapist can help you make rapid progress in your accent modification journey.

Working with a speech therapist also provides a supportive and encouraging environment for your language development, much like having a dedicated music coach. They can help set realistic goals, track your progress, and motivate you throughout the process. They can also address any underlying speech issues or difficulties that may be impacting your accent and provide tailored strategies to overcome them.

If you are based in BC and would like to speak with a speech therapist, Arbutus Speech Therapy offers a free initial consultation with a registered SLP.

Takeaway

Improving your accent is like mastering a musical piece: it requires dedication, practice, and guidance. By tuning into native speakers, joining the conversation, and teaming up with a speech therapist, you can make significant strides in refining your accent. Remember, developing an accent takes time and patience, so be persistent in your efforts and celebrate each milestone achieved along the way.

Embrace the journey of accent improvement, and before you know it, you’ll be communicating with clarity and confidence in your target language, singing a tune that’s distinctly and beautifully your own!

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If you or someone you know is experiencing dysarthria, a Speech Therapist can help. Speech Therapists, also known as Speech-Language Pathologists, are trained professionals who specialize in helping individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. They use a variety of techniques and strategies to help individuals with dysarthria improve their speech and communication skills.

One of the first things a Speech Therapist will do is assess the individual’s speech and language abilities. This may involve evaluating the person’s oral motor skills, such as their ability to move their lips, tongue, and jaw, as well as their ability to produce different sounds. The therapist may also assess the person’s cognitive skills, such as their memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities, as these can all impact speech and language production. It is also helpful to rule out any other speech disorders. Some confuse dysarthria with apraxia, however apraxia is an impairment of motor planning rather than muscle weakness. Dysarthria can have a range of causes, including neurological conditions, brain injuries, and even certain medications. It can also occur as a result of aging or degenerative conditions.

Based on the assessment, the Speech Therapist will develop a treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs. Treatment for dysarthria may involve a variety of techniques, such as:

• Techniques to improve breath control: Dysarthria can often cause problems with the way a person speaks, such as speaking too softly or too loudly. By improving breath control, the person can learn to regulate the volume and pitch of their voice.

• Strategies to improve articulation: Articulation refers to the way sounds are produced and combined to form words. A Speech Therapist can teach the client techniques to help them produce clearer, more distinct sounds.

• Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) techniques: If the individual’s dysarthria is severe, they may have difficulty speaking at all. In these cases, a Speech Therapist can help the person learn to use AAC techniques, such as gestures or electronic devices, to communicate.

In addition to working on these specific skills, a Speech Therapist may also work with the individual on overall communication strategies, such as how to initiate and maintain conversations, how to listen and respond to others, and how to express their thoughts and needs effectively in spite of having dysarthria.

It’s important to note that dysarthria can be a chronic condition, and treatment may be ongoing. However, with the help of a Speech Therapist, individuals with dysarthria can often improve their speech and communication skills and lead more fulfilling lives.

We’re here to help
If you or someone you know is experiencing dysarthria, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Speech Therapist. They can assess the individual’s needs and develop a treatment plan to help them improve their speech and communication skills. You can schedule a free consultation with one of our speech-pathologists to determine a potential treatment plan that works best for you. With the right support, individuals with dysarthria can reach their speech goals and live a satisfying life despite their disorder.

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Apraxia of speech is not a problem with the muscles or nerves responsible for speech, but rather a difficulty with the brain’s ability to plan and execute the precise movements necessary for clear and fluid speech. Essentially, the signal from the brain to the mouth has been broken or changed. This can result in difficulty producing specific sounds, stringing sounds together to form words, and putting words together to form sentences.

What are the symptoms of apraxia of speech?

Symptoms of apraxia of speech can vary widely and may include:

• Difficulty producing specific sounds, such as “s”, “t”, or “r”
• Difficulty stringing sounds together to form words
• Difficulty putting words together to form sentences
• Struggling to initiate or continue a conversation
• Using incorrect or made-up words
• Speaking in a monotone or with a limited range of pitch and prosody (the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech)
• Struggling to speak in a normal volume or at a normal pace
• Struggling to understand spoken language
• Difficulty making voluntary movements with mouth muscles

Diagnosing can be difficult

Apraxia of speech can be difficult to diagnose, as it can be mistaken for other speech disorders or conditions, such as dysarthria (difficulty controlling the muscles used for speech due to neurological damage) or aphasia (difficulty understanding or producing language due to brain damage). A thorough evaluation by a speech-language pathologist, including a detailed medical history and a speech and language assessment, is usually needed to accurately diagnose apraxia of speech.

The severity of apraxia of speech can vary greatly from person to person. Some people with apraxia of speech may only have mild difficulties with speech, while others may have severe speech impairments that make it difficult for them to communicate effectively. Apraxia of speech can occur at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in young children and may be accompanied by other developmental delays or disorders.

Treatment for Apraxia of Speech

Treatment for apraxia of speech typically involves speech therapy with a qualified speech-language pathologist. Speech therapy for apraxia of speech may include techniques such as:

• Articulation therapy: practicing the correct production of specific sounds and syllables

• Prosody therapy: working on the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech
• Cognitive-linguistic therapy: improving language skills, such as word-finding and grammar
• Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC): this may involve the use of devices or techniques to help a person communicate, such as sign language, picture boards, or electronic communication devices

The success of treatment for apraxia of speech can vary widely, and it is important for individuals with apraxia of speech and their families to work closely with a qualified speech-language pathologist to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Research has shown that early intervention is key to the success of treatment for apraxia of speech. Children with apraxia of speech who receive early and intensive speech therapy tend to make more progress than those who do not. However, treatment at any age can be beneficial and can help individuals with apraxia of speech improve their speech and communication skills.

Getting Help

It is important to note that apraxia of speech is not a disease that can be cured, but rather a disorder that can be managed with different techniques. These techniques support individuals in strengthening their speech skills with the intention of reducing the frustrations and stress associated with the challenges of apraxia. Our speech-language pathologists can determine the unique challenges and needs of individuals with apraxia of speech. Click to schedule a free consultation for more information!

The post What is Apraxia? appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

How Speech Therapy Can Help

Here are four specific ways that a speech therapist can help you improve your public speaking skills:

1. Assess your strengths and weaknesses: A speech therapist can assess your current public speaking skills and identify areas for improvement. This includes your voice, language, or presentation style. They can also take into account any specific goals or challenges you have for your public speaking, such as speaking to a particular audience or using multimedia presentations.

2. Help you develop a clear and concise message: A speech therapist can help you develop a succinct message for your speech or presentation, including outlining the main points you want to make and organizing your content in a logical and effective way. They can also help you practice using language that is appropriate for your audience that will aid in communicating your message effectively.

3. Improve your delivery: A speech therapist can help you work on your delivery, which includes your pacing, volume, pitch, and prosody (the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech). They can also help you practice using nonverbal cues, such as eye contact, facial expressions, and gestures, to enhance your message and engage your audience.

4. Practice and fine-tune your presentation: A speech therapist can give you feedback on your delivery and help you incorporate any necessary revisions. They can also provide you with strategies for managing your nerves and handling unexpected situations that may arise during your presentation.

The benefits of improving your public speaking skills are plentiful. In addition to helping you make a positive impression and achieve your personal development goals, improved public speaking skills can increase your confidence and self-esteem, enhance your day-to-day communication skills, and open up new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Seeking Speech Therapy Services

Working with a speech therapist to improve your public speaking skills can be a valuable investment in your personal and professional development. We can provide you with the tools and strategies you need to speak more effectively and confidently, and ultimately help you achieve your goals and positively impact your communication skills.

Keep in mind that if you are in British Columbia and you receive benefits from your employer, Speech Therapy is often one of the covered services. To find out more about funding, see our post here

Arbutus Speech Therapy offers professional communication sessions both online or in-person. Click Here to connect with one of our Speech-Language Pathologists for a free consultation today!

The post 4 Ways a Speech Therapist Can Help You Improve Your Public Speaking appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

Neurodiversity is not a disease or disorder, but rather a different way of being. Neurodiversity includes people who identify as autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, bipolar disorder, and many more.

Recognized conditions associated with neurodiversity include:

History of Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity as a concept is not new. The phrase was first used in the 1990s by sociologist Judy Singer, who is autistic. The idea that autistic people are disabled was challenged by Singer. She believed that autistic brains simply functioned differently from other brains.

Neurodiversity is first and foremost about social justice and inclusivity. Neurodiversity research and education are becoming increasingly significant in how physicians understand and treat some impairments and neurological diseases.

Celebrating Neurodiversity

The idea of neurodiverse individuals is to celebrate and be proud of one’s reality, even if it is different from what society deems as “normal”.

Neurodiversity is not just about people with disabilities – it can also be about people who are gifted in some way because of their neurological differences. Neurodiverse people can be more creative as they have access to different perspectives that would not be available otherwise. This has also led employers to think about the benefits of a neurodiverse workforce, looking at it much like other forms of diversity in the workplace.

Challenges for neurodiverse individuals

Neurodiverse children may have trouble in the classroom and may need therapy or other special education to help them learn effectively. Neurodiverse individuals may also struggle in social situations and in the workplace. Neurodiversity is often not visible, which means someone looking at a neurodiverse individual may not be able to identify them as such. On the other hand, neurodiverse individuals may not be comfortable disclosing their neurodiversity due to fears about how they may be perceived.

What is ‘Neurotypical’?

The opposite of neurodivergence is the term neurotypical (NT). Being “neurologically typical” refers to falling within the normal (average) range for human neurology.

The word is used to denote a person whose brain development and state are typical, adhering to what most people would view as normal, and it was first used in the autism community to refer to non-autistic people. Those with unusual neurological development are referred to as “neurodivergent” individuals.

Inclusivity

Advocates for neurodiversity promote inclusive language. While many disability advocates favour identity-first language, such as “an autistic person,” others favor person-first language, such as “a person with autism,” or “a person with Down syndrome.” Therefore, it is courteous to directly ask about someone’s preferred language and how they’d like to be addressed. Clinicians must be aware of neurodiversity and should strive to use correct language in order to address the mental and physical health of those with neurodevelopmental variations.

Neurodiversity and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with differences in the way a person communicates, behaves, and learns.

Every autistic person is different, which means there is a wide range of different needs, but also strengths and abilities. Many autistic people have the ability to speak verbally and have an IQ of 100 or more, but may struggle in other areas like communicating their needs and feelings. They may also struggle with harmful behaviors that impact their safety and well-being.

Moreover, for some autistic people, their disorder does not cause them to directly suffer. Instead, the suffering they experience is a consequence of society’s treatment of neurodivergent individuals, leading to less opportunities in work, life, and relationships.

Diagnosis and clinical treatment are important for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. In British Columbia, a formal diagnosis enables access to social and therapeutic services. A diagnosis can facilitate connections throughout the community and aid the individual or their family in understanding their differences. To maximize their quality of life and developmental potential, it is important that individuals who require behavioral supports or interventions to advance communicative, social, intellectual, and daily living abilities have access to those services. Tailored goals are key to intervention as every person has unique needs, interests, and goals.

Conclusion

All in all, Neurodiversity is an important term and a helpful and inclusive way to view those who don’t necessarily think the way a ‘typical’ person might. At Arbutus Speech Therapy, our therapists believe in the importance of inclusion while also understanding that providing support to neurodivergent individuals can help them reach their potential.

We would be happy to chat if you have questions about neurodiversity? Reach out here, or if you are in British Columbia, book a free consultation with an SLP today!

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What is AAC?

AAC, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication, refers to ways of communicating that does not require spoken or sign language. AAC helps people who can’t communicate verbally to express themselves using symbols to convey meaning including objects, real life images (people, places, things), symbolic images, words, and much more.

Typically, AAC is driven by technology, but this is not always the case. In fact, there are some cases where low-tech alternatives are more suitable. More on that later! AAC is all about improving a person’s ability to communicate their needs and desires.

Who needs it?

Does my child need AAC? There are many reasons why a child might benefit from using AAC systems with their communication partners/caregivers: they have been diagnosed with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), cerebral palsy , developmental delay etc., they have had a brain injury that has impacted their ability to produce any speech sounds

AAC can help adults too. Do you know someone who has lost their ability to speak due to a medical condition such as ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) or stroke? In this case, they might benefit from an Augmentative and Alternative Communication device since it would allow them another option for communication besides writing. Adults with autism can also benefit from AAC strategies.

What does AAC look like?

As mentioned earlier, AAC devices come in many forms – and not all require technology! There are several different ways of using AAC strategies which include manual signs, picture symbols , gestures, objects and more. Examples of AAC systems that do not need to be “plugged in” are photo albums, communication books or binders, physical objects, buttons, wooden or plastic boards to name a few.

For more advanced users, technology is required. Common AAC systems that require technology include systems communication apps available on computers, tablets, or iPads. Read the next section for more information about popular communication apps.

For early or emergent communicators, AAC systems include yes/no response systems, object choices, paper-based communication boards with pictures, and devices that speak when an item or message is selected (voice-output systems).

While technology is a blessing for those who require alternative means to communicate, it is best to have a paper-based communication system as a backup for days when the iPad is forgotten, out of charge, or damaged.

An AAC device should be as ‘available’ to its user as possible. Without their device, they are essentially without their voice. Many systems, such as paper-based, book-bound, tablet/iPad or purpose-built AAC devices are convenient and portable.

Physical ability and general mobility are also factors in determining which AAC device to use. Depending on an individual’s ability and mobility, an AAC user may have their system secured to their wheelchair (an occupational therapist is also involved in fitting such devices.)

Common Communication Apps

A communication app is software that you can download onto a device that you already own, such as a laptop, tablet, or iPad. Some examples of popular apps include:

Communication apps are made up of pictures and words in a grid. Depending on  the user’s needs and abilities, there may be many (up to 80 or more) selectable images, categories, and grammatical markers on each page, or there could be a few large images. Don’t worry though, the configuration of the grid and the number of images on each page is part of the recommendations provided by the speech-language pathologist.

Communication apps can cost hundreds of dollars, and that does not include the device that it runs on. This is why having a speech-language pathology AAC assessment is so important as you will have certainty that you are being recommended an app that is right for you before you buy.

Speech-Language Pathologist AAC Assessment

An AAC Assessment falls under the Speech-Language Pathology profession. Assessments can last from 45 minutes to several hours, depending on the individual’s diagnosis and needs.

A speech-language pathologist will begin by determining the individual’s ability to communicate functionally in all areas of their life. The individual as well as their family will be asked to provide important information that will indicate whether an AAC device is required.

Just because your family member can communicate verbally, does not necessarily mean they are not a fit for an AAC evaluation and device. Many AAC users have the ability to speak verbally to some extent, use sign, or have already developed a system of their own to communicate. Regardless, AAC may be able to enhance their ability to have their thoughts and desires understood.

A speech-language pathologist’s AAC assessment will help determine the ideal AAC set-up for your scenario. There are many factors taken into consideration including upper body mobility, eye sight, literacy, cognitive abilities, age, and lifestyle. 

Based on these factors and more, a speech-language pathologist will make specific recommendations as to what, if any, AAC device is required, how and where you can obtain an AAC device, as well as help with access to funding and any other questions you may have.

Costs and Funding for AAC Devices

It is important to know that there are options for many individuals in BC who may require access to alternative and augmentative communication. Depending on your situation, your Arbutus Speech Therapist will know what/if any funding options are available to you. Fortunately, there is funding available in BC for Alternative and Augmentative Communication for a number of different situations.

Below is a list of organizations and suppliers in BC who provide funding for devices:

Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults (CAYA):

CAYA is a province-wide service program that supports adults aged 19 years and older who require an AAC system due to a severe communication disability (i.e. speech that is not functional for daily communication.)

Assistive Technology BC

For people with disabilities, Assistive Technology BC provides assistive technology and related support services to British Columbians with disabilities.

Special Education Branch of the BC Ministry of Education (SET-BC)

SET-BC is a good place to start for BC students with complex needs to participate more actively in their education and in standard curriculums. SET-BC also have a wealth of resources and training to tap into.

Without funding, the cost of a specialized device is typically within the range of $3,000 to $8,000 CAD, depending on the complexity of the device. Devices can be rented or purchased from a number of suppliers in BC such as the resources mentioned below. Tablet-based apps on the other hand tend to be more cost effective, and in many cases are highly effective (see our list of recommended apps above.)

Ready to get started?

AAC is a valuable assistive communication tool that should be considered as part of an effective treatment plan for children and adults with severe speech or language difficulties. If you are based in BC and suspect that AAC might be helpful for you or someone you love, reach out to Arbutus Speech Therapy for a free consultation.

The post What is AAC? A Guide to Augmentative and Alternative Communication appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

#1 – Employers value Communication in new hires above almost anything else

According to a GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey discussed here, employers look for oral communication and listening skills in new hires above other things like technology, qualitative analysis or negotiation skills. 81% of corporate recruiters identified interpersonal skills as important.

The latest survey shows that throughout the pandemic, the value placed on communication skills has actually grown. This may seem counter-intuitive, since the pandemic has meant we have been having less in-person interaction, but now more than ever organizations are looking for individuals with the soft skills and communication skills to help their teams in uncertain times.

Therefore, working on your professional communication may be one of the most valuable career skills to cultivate and develop, with the return-on-investment compounding over your career.

#2 – Communication confidence does not come naturally for everybody

If you are reading this article, you may have lingering thoughts about your own communication style and whether or not it’s serving you or holding you back in the workplace. You may be battling self-confidence issues and questioning whether or not you are “good enough.” Both men and women often struggle when it comes to having self-confidence and questioning whether they deserve their job. This is commonly referred to as Imposter Syndrome.

Professional communication will help you identify your strengths as a communicator while developing a plan to target the areas that will take your communication to the next level.

#3 Professional Communication falls within the field of Speech-Language Pathology

Speech-language pathologists are educated and professionally trained to identify individual communication styles and idiosyncrasies including fluency (filler words), speaking rate and volume, body language, sarcasm/humour, and linguistic cultural differences. All of these can have a positive or negative impact on your target audience, and therefore deserve our attention.

Fortunately, because Professional Communication is an area of SLP specialty, sessions received through a registered Speech-Language Pathologist are often covered by your insurance or extended health benefits.

#4 If you’re nervous about Speech Therapy, you’re not alone!

It’s completely normal to be anxious or nervous about seeking out and starting professional communication speech therapy. While everyone’s journey is different, communication can be a very personal thing, and some might feel self-conscious about reaching out for advice or for help, even from a professional. Please know that you are not alone, this is a common feeling among so many working professionals.

Our registered Speech Language Pathologists will recognize your individual needs and move at the right pace for you, in a productive and non-judgemental space. We will listen to you to deeply understand your goals, motivations, severity of issues and expectations.

#5 Getting started is easy

Arbutus Speech Therapy offers a free phone consultation where you can share your concerns and goals with us. This can be booked online via our website.

If you decide to proceed, an online communication confidence survey is sent to you to fill out which will help you to identify exactly what you would like to focus on in sessions. The initial assessment will involve a discussion with your Speech Therapist on your career, the communication skills required in your field, and the gap between where you are today and where you would like to get to.

Getting started is the most important thing! From there, we will work regularly on your goals and help you reach your communication potential!

If you have any question professional communication, reach out to us today!

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Accent modification services are for individuals who want to modify their accents to sound more similar to the local accent. The reasons people have to change their accents range from personal to professional, but are generally for the purpose of being better understood when speaking.

Accent Modification is sometimes referred to Accent Reduction, but the term Accent Modification is now preferred over Accent Reduction, since everyone has an accent, and the goal is simply to modify your accent to be more easily understood by others.

Why should I change my accent?

You shouldn’t if you don’t want to! This is a personal decision. There is nothing wrong with speaking with an accent, but some people find that they are not able to be understood by local speakers, and so may choose to modify their accent.

Here are some common reasons people may want to modify their accent:

Do English-speaking Canadians have an accent?

Definitely, and not every Canadian accent is the same! Accents & Dialects of Canada is a website that has samples of English-speaking Canadian accents from across the country including. Have a listen to see if you can hear the differences!

Your Arbutus Speech Therapist will help you to learn about the differences between your natural accent and the local Vancouver accent.

What are the steps involved in Accent Modification at Arbutus Speech Therapy?

What do therapy sessions look like?

In your weekly therapy sessions you will focus directly on achieving your accent goals. Your Arbutus Speech Therapist will identify 1-2 goals per session that will bring you closer to your ideal accent. Your therapist will also provide homework based on that week’s session. You are encouraged to bring your own list of hard-to-pronounce words or phrases to each session.

What kind of outcome can I expect, and how many sessions will it take?

Most people can modify their accents to become easier to understand through accent modification sessions. The most successful clients are those who are motivated to change and willing to put the time and effort in to their home practice. 10-30 minutes per day is recommended.

You can expect to see your Arbutus Speech Therapist for a minimum of 6-8 sessions with the greatest results typically after 3-6 months.

Does my insurance cover this type of therapy?

Accent Modification falls under Speech-Language Pathology services for many insurance providers. Check with your extended health benefits provider to see if Speech-Language Pathology services are included in your policy. Our funding guide which covers off funding options in BC may also provide some assistance.

If you have questions or would like to discuss accent modification with a Speech-Language Pathologist, get in touch with us today or book a free consultation. We’re looking forward to working with you.

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