How can speech therapy help?
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Speech therapy helps people with autism connect, express themselves, and be understood—at any age, in any way that works best for them. It can make a huge difference in the life of a person with autism. It helps with much more than just talking—it builds communication, social connection, and confidence, all of which are essential for everyday life. They can learn to speak more clearly, understand others better, use gestures or pictures to express needs, have back-and-forth conversations and understand tone, body language, and emotions.
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Life-Long Benefits of Speech Therapy
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Stronger relationships
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Less anxiety and frustration
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Greater independence
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Better success at school and work
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Improved quality of life
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In Childhood
Teaches first words and sounds
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Helps kids ask for what they need (like food, toys, help)
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Supports understanding of simple directions
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Builds skills to play and interact with others
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Teens
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Builds social communication skills (like how to start a conversation)
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Teaches how to understand jokes, sarcasm, or social cues
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Supports language needed for school, friendships, and life skills
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Helps reduce frustration and improve self-esteem
Adults
Supports communication at work, in college, or in relationships
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Improves self-advocacy (like asking for help or setting boundaries)
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Helps with interview skills or workplace communication
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Strengthens independence and community involvement
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Providers who can help
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Advent Pediatric Therapy Services
Where: 3376 Linden Street Bethlehem
Call: 610-392-4339
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Bethlehem Pediatric Therapy Services
Where: 701 West Union Ave, Unit 10, Bethlehem
Call: (610) 625-4404
Website
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Blackbird Health
Where: 1247 S Cedar Crest Blvd, Suite 107, Allentown
Website
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Good Shepherd Outpatient Services
Call: 1-888-44-REHAB (73422)​​
Website
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Lehigh Valley Health Network
Where: Multiple locations
​Call: 610-866-9675
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Nelson Therapeutic Services, LLC
Where: 3124 Cambridge Cir, Allentown,
Call: (610) 462-4625
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St. Lukes Hospital
Where: Multiple Locations
Call: 484-526-5025
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U.S. Healthcare Services
Where: 430 Nazareth Pike Suite 2B, Nazareth, PA 18064
Call: (610) 365-2437
Helpful Articles Creating Speech IEP Goals
20 Measurable Pragmatic Language IEP Goals (samples and examples)
15 IEP Goals for Assistive Technology and AAC
20 Listening Comprehension IEP Goals (and Examples)
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