Providing supports to families and children of all ages
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Feeding & Swallowing Disorders
Feeding disorders include problems with nursing, bottle-feeding, chewing, eating from a spoon/fork and drinking from a cup. Swallowing disorders (Dysphagia) can include taking more time and effort to move food or liquid in the mouth and throat and into the stomach.
Common signs: (please note that this is not an all inclusive list).
Difficulty breast or bottle feeding
Difficulty transitioning from pureed to solids or bottle to cup
Coughs or gags during meals
Spits up or throws up
Difficulty chewing
Difficulty with weight gain
Refuses to eat or drink
Avoids certain foods, textures or temperatures
Takes a long time to eat
Pockets food (holds food in their mouth)
Liquid comes out of their mouth or nose
Picky-eater
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Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders
Orofacial Myology is “the study and treatment of the oral and facial muscles as they relate to speech, dentition, chewing/bolus collection, swallowing, and overall mental and physical health.” — Sandra R. Holtzman
According to the Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy, Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) “are disorders of the muscles and functions of the face and mouth. OMDs may affect, directly and/or indirectly, breastfeeding, facial skeletal growth and development, chewing, swallowing, speech, occlusion, temporomandibular joint movement, oral hygiene, stability of orthodontic treatment, facial esthetics, and more.”
OMD’s can affect all ages and can differ in severity. Some examples of untreated OMD’s include:
Fatigue
Speech difficulties
Feeding difficulties
Difficulty swallowing
Crooked teeth
Recessed chin
Orthodontic relapse
Headaches
Digestive issues
ADHD/ADD
Depression/Anxiety
Long facial growth
Open mouth posture
Mouth breathing
Drooling
Prolonged pacifier use
Oral habits (thumb sucking, nail biting)
Chapped lips
TMJ or jaw popping/locking
Snoring
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Speech & Language Disorders
Speech refers to the way we pronounce sounds and words. A child with a speech disorder may be difficult to understand.
Language refers to the way we understand spoken or written words (receptive comprehension) and use words to express thoughts and ideas (expression). It also includes using/understanding gestures, signs, facial expressions and body language.We have experience evaluating and treating children with:
Apraxia of Speech
Articulation & Phonological Disorders
Developmental Delays
Expressive and Receptive Language Disorders
Oral Motor Disorders
What we offer
Screenings
Screenings for feeding, speech/language, and orofacial myofunctional disorders are quick assessments that help determine if a comprehensive evaluation is needed.
Collaboration
Collaboration with your child’s team members is an integral part of your child’s journey to success. We have experience collaborating with:
Airway Centric Dentists
Applied Behavior Analysts
Audiologists
Cardiologists
Developmental Pediatricians
Geneticists
Orthodontists
Otolaryngologists (ENTs)
Pediatricians
Physical and Occupational Therapists
Teachers
Evaluations
Our evaluations are comprehensive and are typically 1 to 2 hours in duration. An evaluation can be performed at your home, or virtually. A full written report with recommendations will be provided and reviewed with you and other professional members on the team.
Telepractice
Max Potential Therapy, LLC offers assessment and treatment services over video conferencing for families who prefer this method. A computer with reliable internet connection is required.
Therapy
Engaging, fun, and interactive therapy is our goal! We offer one on one therapy sessions in your home, daycare or preschool. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to be active participants to help the child learn new skills across a variety of natural environments.
Virtual Coaching
Not sure if you need an evaluation but want to make sure that your child’s communication or feeding skills are on track? Our virtual coaching sessions are between the parent and Speech-Language Pathologist. We can answer questions and then after your call, develop a home program with suggestions to incorporate into your daily routines/activities. Coaching is flexible with frequency of sessions. It is offered in 30 or 60 minute sessions. Depending on your needs and or concerns, a formal evaluation may be recommended.