Voice therapy is usually short-term, 4 to 10 sessions, over a period of 6 to 8 weeks. The duration of treatment is determined by the diagnosis, the condition of the vocal cords, vocal habits, motivation and compliance with the therapeutic program. Many children who need speech therapy have an articulation or phonological processing disorder. The typical time to correct a difference in speech is 15 to 20 hours (Jacoby et al, 200), and the typical frequency for joint treatment is twice a week for 30-minute sessions (ASHA 200).
Based on this information, it could be assumed that if the disorder were mild to moderate, if the child attended treatment consistently and families did their homework between sessions, the total duration of treatment could be about four to five months. The actual treatment time will also depend on the number of sound errors that are being addressed in the treatment plan. The more sounds that are wrong, the longer the treatment lasts. This type of therapy is provided by specially trained speech-language pathologists and is usually used to help control voice disorders or to alter the overall quality of the voice, as in the case of voice therapy for transgender people.
Speech-language pathologists are experts at keeping the voice healthy and improving vocal function due to a voice disorder. Whether you have problems with a specific voice disorder or want to change the overall quality and sound of your voice, voice therapy with a speech therapist is the best resource. Voice disorders and speech disorders can occur together, for example, after a stroke or in other neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease. Most people require voice therapy appointments once or twice a week for several months.
While therapy aimed at each of these challenges is specifically goal-oriented, the approach a therapist would take is different. Voice therapy can also be used as prevention, to train the voice and completely avoid these problems. In addition, the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) helps ensure the clinical competence of all certified therapists through its Certificate of Clinical Competency (CCC). This gives you peace of mind knowing that the therapist you choose to work with is qualified to meet your child's speech and language needs.
Voice therapy usually consists of techniques and exercises that focus on several vocal parameters, such as the closure of the vocal cords, tone, volume and overall quality. In Germany, statutory health insurers usually cover the costs of vocal therapy if needed and has been prescribed by a family doctor or an otolaryngologist. The first two weeks of therapy are usually spent with the therapist and your child establishing a relationship and routine. Speech-language pathologists are experts at helping people support, strengthen, and repair the voice and related muscles.
