How It Works
T H E T H E R A P Y A P P R O A C H
Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy focuses on strengthening and coordinating the muscles of the mouth, face, and neck to support healthy breathing, tongue posture, and swallowing patterns. Treatment emphasizes nasal breathing, lips-together rest posture, elevated tongue resting position, and an efficient swallow. These exercises function much like physical therapy, applied to the mouth and face, to restore healthier oral function and support long-term stability. Therapy is individualized and tailored to each client’s age, needs, and goals.
Myofunctional therapy can also play an important role in:
Supporting overall facial growth, balance and appearance
Improving jaw stability
Eliminating oral habits that affect facial development or dental alignment
Improving the stability of orthodontic treatment and preventing relapse
Supporting speech clarity through better coordination of the tongue and jaw
Guiding preparation and recovery for tongue-tie releases and jaw procedures
Enhancing overall comfort, breathing efficiency, and quality of life
Speech Therapy
Speech therapy focuses on improving the clarity, coordination, and efficiency of speech, so individuals can communicate effectively and with confidence. Therapy addresses how speech sounds are formed, sequenced, and carried into everyday conversation, using structured practice and individualized strategies to support lasting change.
For young children, therapy emphasizes the development of age-appropriate speech sounds, as well as rhythm and timing of speech. Therapy also focuses on improving breath support for vocalization and building the strength, coordination, and motor planning skills needed for clear and accurate speech as language skills grow.
For adolescents and adults, therapy focuses on improving long-standing speech patterns, reducing unhelpful speech habits, strengthening breath support, and addressing speech differences related to dental alignment or oral structure. The goal is clear, efficient speech that can be used comfortably and consistently in daily life.
How Therapy Begins
Step 1: Schedule a Free 15 Minute Call
A complimentary 15-minute phone call is available to review your concerns and determine whether an evaluation may be appropriate for you or your child. This brief call offers an opportunity to learn more about therapy, ask questions, and explore next steps.
Step 2: Evaluation
A comprehensive evaluation is the first step in determining whether speech therapy, myofunctional therapy, or a combined approach is recommended. Evaluations are one hour in length and are individualized, based on age, concerns, and clinical needs.
The evaluation includes assessment of speech; oral structure and function; breathing and swallowing patterns; and oral habits. Attention is also given to overall communication, including receptive and expressive language skills, as appropriate.
Findings are carefully analyzed, and a personalized treatment plan is developed. Results and recommendations are reviewed at the following appointment, at which time therapy may begin.
Step 3: Therapy
The goal is to create lasting, functional change that supports better breathing, healthier oral habits, improved comfort, and more confident communication.
