inVoice therapy provided by a Speech Pathologist is the first line treatment approach for the majority of voice disorders. It can be used as a stand alone method or combination with medical and/or surgical treatments. The overall aim of voice therapy is to achieve the best possible voice through guided change in vocal behaviours and lifestyle factors. Southern Sydney Voice Therapy offers a range of voice therapy techniques that are selected based on the latest research evidence as well as our clients' personal goals and vocal needs. This may involve learning a series of vocal exercises designed to shape healthy voice production, applying manual techniques (stretches and massage) to your neck, oral or jaw areas, as well as provision of education and counselling about other behavioural or environmental changes you might need to make. Our Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist (Clare Eastwood) has received training in many methods of voice therapy such as Voicecraft, the Accent Method and Myofascial Release of the jaw and neck. She is also certified to provide the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) for Parkinson Disease.
How can voice therapy help?
Specific aims of voice therapy will vary depending on a number of factors such as an individual’s voice diagnosis, vocal symptoms, and personal needs. Examples of how voice therapy can help include:
Improves clarity of voice
Increases ability to use loud voice
Enhances ability to vary pitch or to speak at a desired pitch level
Minimises vocal fatigue
Reduces aches, pain, strain or the feeling that there is a ‘lump’ in the throat
Increases ability to meet occupational and/or social vocal demands
Assists in modifying voice to represent who you are as a person
How long does voice therapy take?
The overall length and frequency of voice therapy depends on the type of voice disorder or voice concern, severity of symptoms, co-occurring medical and/or surgical treatment(s), concomitant physical and/or mental health condition(s) and other individual factors. The level of motivation and commitment to practice the new vocal behaviours and other lifestyle changes will also influence the overall duration and success of voice therapy.
