Exclusive Service
Dysarthria Assessment
Our Approach
At The London Neurocognitive Clinic, dysarthria assessments are carried out by experienced Speech and Language Therapists with expertise in neurological communication difficulties. The assessment begins with a detailed discussion about the individual’s medical history, the onset and progression of their speech changes, the situations in which communication is most difficult and the impact these difficulties are having on daily life.
The clinician will listen carefully to different aspects of the individual’s speech and may examine the movement and coordination of the lips, tongue, jaw and other structures involved in speaking. Tasks are selected according to the person’s needs and may explore breathing, voice, articulation, resonance, speech rate, rhythm and intelligibility. The aim is to develop a clear understanding of the person’s communication strengths and difficulties so that any recommendations are practical, relevant and centred around their individual goals.
Which aspects of my speech will be assessed?
Dysarthria can affect several components of speech, and the pattern of difficulty is different for each person. During the assessment, the Speech and Language Therapist may explore breathing support, vocal volume, voice quality, pronunciation, resonance, speech rate, rhythm and the coordination of the muscles involved in speaking.
The individual may be asked to produce particular sounds, repeat words or sentences, read aloud and take part in a natural conversation. This allows the clinician to compare speech across both structured and everyday communication tasks.
The therapist may also consider whether speech becomes less clear during longer conversations or when the individual is tired, anxious, speaking quickly or communicating in a noisy environment. Understanding these variations helps identify which aspects of speech require support and which existing strengths can be used during treatment.
Why does my speech become more difficult in certain situations?
Speech affected by dysarthria may not remain the same throughout the day. Some people notice that their speech becomes quieter, slower, more slurred or more effortful when they are tired. Others may find that they are harder to understand when speaking on the telephone, in groups, in noisy places or when trying to communicate quickly.
A Dysarthria Assessment helps identify the situations in which speech is most vulnerable. The clinician will consider how physical fatigue, breathing, posture, emotional pressure, medication timing and the complexity or length of a conversation may influence speech clarity.
Recognising these patterns can help the individual plan communication more effectively. Recommendations may include choosing quieter environments, taking regular pauses, positioning themselves closer to the listener or using specific strategies when speech becomes less clear.
What strategies may improve my speech clarity?
Following the assessment, the Speech and Language Therapist may recommend techniques that address the individual’s particular pattern of dysarthria.
Where speech is significantly affected, the therapist may recommend additional communication support. This could include written keywords, alphabet boards, communication books, mobile applications or other augmentative and alternative communication methods. These options are introduced to support communication rather than replace speech unnecessarily.
Questions our clients ask
Frequently asked questions
You may have lots of questions and that’s understandable. We have provided some answers below to frequently asked questions but if you’re still unsure about something do get in contact with us.
Will I be given speech exercises?
Exercises may be recommended when they are appropriate for the type and cause of the dysarthria. These may focus on areas such as breath control, voice production, articulation or the coordination of speech movements.
However, treatment does not always consist of repetitive exercises. The therapist may also focus on practical strategies that make everyday conversations easier. Any exercises or techniques will be selected carefully and explained so that the individual understands how and when to use them.
Can my family learn how to understand me more easily?
Yes. Communication partners can play an important role in reducing frustration and supporting successful conversations. With the individual’s consent, the therapist may provide guidance to relatives, carers or colleagues.
What if my speech continues to change over time?
Some neurological conditions can cause speech abilities to fluctuate or change gradually. In these circumstances, regular review may be helpful so that strategies and communication support can be adapted as the individual’s needs develop.
The therapist may recommend further treatment, updated communication aids or additional support for family members and carers. The aim is to help the individual continue communicating as independently and effectively as possible, even if their speech changes over time.
Have Questions?
If you have any questions about Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) or would like to find out whether it could benefit you or someone you care for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help.