Communication is something many of us take for granted—until it becomes a challenge. Whether it’s a child struggling to be understood or an adult having difficulty speaking, swallowing, or remembering words, speech-language therapy can be life-changing.
At Unified Therapy Services, our speech-language pathologists work with both children and adults to help improve communication, safety with swallowing, and overall quality of life.
But how do you know when it’s time to seek help?
Below, we break down key signs to watch for in children and adults, and how Unified Therapy Services can support your family.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Speech Therapy
Every child develops at their own pace, but there are common red flags that suggest extra support could be helpful.
Consider reaching out to Unified Therapy Services for an evaluation if your child:
Speech Sounds & Clarity
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Is difficult to understand for their age (slurred, mumbled, or unclear speech)
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Has persistent articulation errors beyond typical developmental ages
Language Use & Understanding
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Struggles to form sentences or use correct verb tenses or pronouns
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Has trouble following verbal or written directions
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Cannot answer questions appropriately for their age
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Repeats what others say rather than responding meaningfully
Social Communication
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Avoids eye contact or struggles with turn-taking in conversation
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Speaks too loudly or too softly for the situation
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Has difficulty using language appropriately in different settings (home vs. school)
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Struggles with greetings, asking questions, or staying on topic
Fluency & Voice
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Shows signs of stuttering (frequent repetitions, blocks, or prolongations)
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Has an abnormal voice quality, pitch, or tone
Learning & Literacy Skills
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Has difficulty identifying colors or counting
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Struggles with reading, decoding, or comprehension
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Has trouble describing events or telling stories with detail
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Has difficulty organizing thoughts or putting ideas into writing
Behavior & Frustration
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Displays behavioral issues due to frustration with communication
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Seems overwhelmed when trying to express needs or ideas
At Unified Therapy Services, our clinicians use play-based, functional, and evidence-based therapy to help children communicate more clearly, confidently, and effectively in their everyday environments.
Signs an Adult May Need Speech Therapy
Speech therapy isn’t just for children. Adults can benefit greatly—especially after illness, injury, or with age-related changes.
Caregivers should watch for:
Swallowing & Safety During Eating
Contact Unified Therapy Services right away if your loved one experiences:
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Coughing or choking while eating or drinking
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Food or liquids escaping from the mouth
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Drooling or facial weakness
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A wet or gurgly voice after swallowing
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Fever after meals (possible sign of aspiration)
These symptoms can indicate dysphagia (a swallowing disorder), which can be serious if untreated. Our team is trained to assess and treat swallowing difficulties to help keep individuals safe and healthy.
Communication Changes
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Trouble finding words or diminished vocabulary
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Difficulty expressing thoughts clearly
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Trouble understanding others (receptive language)
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Challenges in conversations or social communication
Cognitive-Communication Concerns
You may notice:
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Memory problems (short- or long-term)
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Difficulty paying attention
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Trouble organizing thoughts, planning, or problem-solving
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Struggling to tell stories or describe events in order
These issues are common after stroke, brain injury, dementia, or neurological conditions—and speech therapy at Unified Therapy Services can help support communication and independence.
How Speech Therapy at Unified Therapy Services Helps
Our speech-language pathologists can assess and treat:
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Speech sound disorders
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Language delays or disorders
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Stuttering and fluency issues
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Voice disorders
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Swallowing disorders
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Cognitive-communication challenges
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Social communication skills
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Reading and writing difficulties
Therapy is individualized based on each person’s needs, goals, and daily life—whether that’s success in school, work, social interactions, or safe eating.
When to Take the Next Step
If you’re noticing any of these signs in your child—or in an adult you care for—don’t wait. Early evaluation can make a meaningful difference.
A speech-language evaluation at Unified Therapy Services can clarify:
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Whether therapy is needed
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What areas need support
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What progress you can expect
At Unified Therapy Services, our experienced speech-language pathologists are dedicated to helping individuals communicate safely, confidently, and effectively. If you have questions or concerns, we’re here to guide you through the next steps and support your family along the way. Please give us a call at 563-583-4003 or email frontdesk@unifiedtherapy.com to inquire about an evaluation.