What is aphasia?
Aphasia is a language difficulty that can occur after a stroke or other brain injury. It may affect speaking, understanding, reading, or writing. A language difficulty does not mean a person has lost their intelligence.
Every person's pattern is different. We want to learn how you communicate now and what you most want to say, understand, read, or write.
Make communication personal
Your goals may involve talking with family, explaining a need, following a discussion, reading a message, or using familiar written information. The evaluation helps us choose suitable practice and supports.
- Work on word finding and expressing ideas.
- Practice understanding spoken or written information.
- Use gestures, pictures, writing, or other supports when helpful.
Include the people you talk with
Communication is shared. A partner can learn ways to give you time, check understanding, and make choices or messages easier to express.
Bring examples of conversations that matter to you. We can practice strategies that fit those situations rather than treating language as an isolated exercise.
A supportive place to start
Jennifer Holmberg, our speech-language pathologist, works with neurological communication needs. Bring relevant medical information and any communication tools you already use. A support person is welcome to help explain your goals.
Common questions
Is aphasia the same as slurred speech?
No. Aphasia affects language. Slurred or unclear speech may involve movement of the muscles used for speech, often called dysarthria. An evaluation helps identify the needs involved.
Can therapy include reading or writing?
Yes, when those skills are relevant to the difficulties identified and your goals. Tell your therapist what kinds of messages or written tasks matter to you.