Speech Pathology

Our speech-language pathologists provide evaluations and therapy for a variety of communication and swallowing disorders.

A doctor with a face shield and mask discussing with a masked patient.

Why choose UCLA Health for speech pathology services?

At the UCLA Health Speech Pathology Clinic, our speech pathologists and other experts specialize in treating children and adults of all ages. We deliver customized treatment plans using the latest advances in speech and swallowing disorders. We offer:

Evidence-based therapies: As part of a world-renowned teaching hospital, our speech pathologists are at the forefront of advanced treatments. We stay current with the latest advances so we can provide you and your family with the best care.

Patient-focused care: Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for you to access the care you need and to provide an excellent patient experience at each point of contact.

Specialized care: We offer dedicated programs and services to provide personalized care. You will be scheduled with a provider who will have the clinical specialty to match your needs. You’ll receive tailored therapies designed to help you reach your goals.

Strong collaborative relationships: We work closely with specialists across departments, including audiology, pediatrics, radiation oncology, neurology, and rehabilitation services, to deliver coordinated care. Our specialists also work in partnership with the UCLA Robert G. Kardashian Center for Esophageal Health and UCLA Health Head and Neck Cancer Program.

Services we provide

The specially trained speech pathologists at UCLA Health provide world-class care for people of all ages. Our diverse programs and services allow us to address your specific needs and provide therapies that work for you. We offer comprehensive evaluations, treatments and support. Our services include:

Adult services:

Swallowing disorders programs:

Our experts diagnose and treat swallowing disorders. For patients with a history of head and neck cancer, speech pathologists work closely with UCLA Health Head and Neck Surgery to determine the most appropriate treatments. This unique team approach offers the most convenient, comprehensive care to adults with swallowing disorders.

For patients who are currently undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, we partner with UCLA Health Radiation Oncology to provide a specific program aimed at preserving swallow function post-treatment.

Neurogenic communication disorders:

We treat communication disorders that result from neurologic conditions (e.g., stroke, brain injury, brain tumor). We have recently developed a specific program for individuals who are experiencing cognitive issues due to long COVID.

Voice disorders:

We work closely with otolaryngologists to diagnosis and treat a variety of voice disorders. We have a partnership with UCLA Health and Neck, allowing us to collaborate on complex voice cases. In partnership with the UCLA Gender Health Program, our speech pathologists offer gender congruent voice services.

Total laryngectomy service:

For individuals who are planning to undergo or have undergone laryngectomy, we offer a wide range of services including pre and post-operative counseling, electrolarynx training and TEP management.

Some adult conditions we treat:

Aphasia, apraxia, dysarthria, cognitive/communication impairment, dysphonia and other upper airway disorders, aphonia following total laryngectomy, dysphagia and supragastric belching.

Pediatric services:

Pediatric speech-language services:

Our pediatric speech and language pathologists evaluate, diagnose and treat children with common to complex communication disorders. We coordinate care with pediatricians, audiologists and pediatric neurologists to offer well-rounded care and effective treatments. Our speech pathologists work with you and your child, offering support and guidance in a compassionate environment.

Pediatric cochlear implant services:

We partner with UCLA Health Audiology and UCLA Health Head and Neck as part of a comprehensive Cochlear Implant Program. We offer pre and post implant speech and language assessments and additional treatment and provide patient/family counseling when appropriate.

Pediatric voice and swallowing services:

We provide comprehensive swallow assessment for children of all ages. Additionally, we provide voice assessment and treatment for children of ages 3+.

Pediatrics fluency disorders services:

We provide fluency assessment and treatment for children between the ages of 4 – 12.

Some pediatric conditions we treat:

Dysphagia, dysphonia and other upper airway disorders, apraxia, fluency disorders (stuttering) and speech language delays and disorders.

Inpatient speech pathology services:

In addition to comprehensive outpatient care, our speech pathologists provide support and treatments for people while they are in the hospital. We offer effective care for a wide range of swallowing, communication and cognitive issues.

Our inpatient and outpatient teams work together to ensure continuity of care after discharge.