I provide both structural and functional therapy to address a variety of communication and swallowing issues.
One of the basic principles of classic osteopathy is the structure-function relationship, which states that structure governs function while function influences structure. My work is influenced by this theory.
Practically speaking, when this is applied to the area of speech therapy, if someone is having difficulty swallowing, articulating speech or producing a clear voice, addressing the underlying structure (for example, muscular tensions and joint mechanics) can often facilitate a more complete and significant improvement in function. Conversely, If just function is addressed (through exercises or imitation of speech sounds for example) there may be more limited results. It is therefore important to address both structure and function. This work is also based on the premise that the body has the ability to heal itself and understands the importance of the body-mind-spirit connection.
Sessions by Appointment
Michele G. Fava, MS CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist