Speech-Language Pathology

The specialists of UCSF Speech-Language Pathology care for patients with speech, language, cognitive or swallowing changes associated with neurological conditions. We start by assessing your individual needs and goals, then tailor treatments accordingly. Our objectives include enhancing your functional abilities at home and in your community, supporting you in successfully returning to work, and improving your quality of life. We are embedded in several neurological specialty clinics, allowing us to work closely with your other providers to ensure comprehensive, integrated care.

We have expertise in a range of disorders, including:

• Aphasia (difficulty with expressing or understanding language)
• Attention, memory, problem-solving and executive dysfunction
• Aural rehabilitation (improving communication for those with hearing loss)
• Brain injury (including concussions and other traumatic brain injuries)
• Dysarthria (difficulty speaking due to weak speech muscles)
• Motor speech disorders, including apraxia (inability to perform tasks or m­ovements despite comprehension and willingness) and dysfluency (disruptions in speech flow, such as stuttering)
• Social (pragmatic) communication disorder (when brain injury impacts a person's abilities to use language and other methods to communicate)
• Swallowing changes related to neurological disease
• Voice disorders caused by Parkinson's disease

We are skilled at assessing and working with patients who use low- or high-tech solutions for augmentative and alternative communication. In addition, our providers are certified in SPEAK OUT! therapy for patients with movement disorders, including Parkinson's disease. 

For your convenience, you may have the option of telehealth services (video visits).

Pediatric speech therapy is available at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland.

Adult patients with ear, nose and throat disorders can find speech-language care at the Voice and Swallowing Center.