Speech-Language Pathology

Treating Communication and Swallowing Disorders

Communicating our needs, ideas and feelings is the most complex of human behaviors, and it is a process that can be affected by genetic syndromes, disease or injuries to the brain or structures involved in communication. For the past 48 years, the Speech-Language Pathology Department at Michigan Medicine has been a leader in advancing diagnostic and treatment protocols for people experiencing communication and/or swallowing difficulties. 

At Michigan Medicine, speech-language pathologists assess and treat individuals with communication impairment. They also assess and treat individuals who are experiencing difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), as some of the structures that enable us to swallow are also involved in speech.  

All our speech-language pathologists are certified by the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and maintain the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence. 

See our Speech Pathology Clinical Services page for more information about what we treat.

Why Choose Michigan for Speech Pathology?

Whether participating in research grants, teaching courses at local universities or evaluating a new treatment method, our certified speech-language pathologists have one central goal: to work closely with patients and families to improve quality of life through enhanced communication and swallowing skills. 

Speech-Language Pathologists at University of Michigan Health are involved in a variety of research projects designed to improve understanding of communication and swallowing disorders and their treatment.  

We present in-services and educational programs at various state and national conferences and for community groups. We are also available to participate in medical grand rounds and medical student and resident lecture programs. 

Learn more about the research projects and educational topics at the University of Michigan.

Clinical Services

Speech-Language Pathologists assess and treat all aspects of communication and oral-pharyngeal swallowing impairment. They participate in patient care teams across University of Michigan Health. Depending on the particular concern, an evaluation may include assessment of: 

  • Speech 
  • Voice 
  • Language 
  • Cognitive-Communication 
  • Dysphagia (Swallowing) 

We create a customized treatment program based on the results of the evaluation. Because changes in speech, language or swallowing abilities may signal a disease process, we communicate with the individual’s physician to assist in medical evaluation and patient education. 

Learn more about speech-language pathology areas of specialty and evaluation on our clinical services page.

Make an Appointment

To make an appointment at any one of our Ambulatory Speech Language Pathology clinics, please call 734-936-7070. For appointments specific to speech-language pathology services at University Hospital or Mott Children’s Hospital, please call 734-763-4003