About Avivit Ben-Aharon
Founder & Clinical Director at Great Speech Inc. | Providing Innovative Alternatives to Speech Pathology Services
Entries by Avivit Ben-Aharon
How do I Start Speech Therapy for Autism?
/ by Avivit Ben-Aharon
The term “autism” or “autism spectrum disorder” (also often abbreviated to ASD) refers to a wide range of symptoms and conditions that are characterized by difficulties relating to social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. To reach an autism diagnosis, a child must exhibit both of the following conditions in early development: * Persistent challenges [...]
COVID-19's Influence on Speech and Communication
/ by Avivit Ben-Aharon
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are still working to understand the short and long-term effects of the virus. At the onset of the pandemic, medical experts and researchers knew very little about COVID-19 and how it would affect individuals who contract it. Now, more than four years later, we have a good [...]
Language Processing Disorder
/ in Language Disorders / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Can you Overcome Language Processing Disorder? A language processing disorder (also referred to as LPD), is a language-based learning disability and is defined as a neurological condition affecting the ability to understand, use, and process language effectively. Individuals with LPD typically are in the normal range of intelligence and hearing but may struggle with various [...]
Functional Speech Disorder
/ in ADHD & Executive Function / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Exploring Functional Speech: Examples, Disorders, and Distinctions The term “functional speech” refers to the ability to communicate effectively, navigate daily life situations, meet basic needs, and facilitate social interactions. Functional speech encompasses the use of speech and language to convey thoughts, express emotions, ask questions, make requests, and engage in conversations. Functional speech is different [...]
Unlocking Palilalia: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Examples
/ in Speech Disorders / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
What is Palilalia? Palilalia is a speech disorder characterized by the repetition of words or phrases, often involuntarily and delayed, with these repetitions typically occurring within the same conversation, sentence, or phrase. It is classified as a form of speech dysfluency, where repetitions disrupt the regular flow of speech. Palilalia can manifest in various forms, [...]
Fluent Speech: Strategies to Address Disfluency and Vocal Challenges
/ in Speech Disorders & Articulation / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Communication is essential for human interaction and connection, yet for many, fluency in speech can be difficult to achieve. Speech fluency refers to the smoothness, rhythm, and flow of speech production. Whether struggling with occasional stutters, hesitations, or persistent vocal hurdles, navigating the challenges associated with speech dysfluency can be overwhelming and daunting. This is [...]
Why is Repetition Important in Therapy?
/ in Cognitive Speech Therapy / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Repetition may seem like a simple concept, but it holds significant significance in the world of speech therapy. From mastering new sounds to internalizing language rules, repetition plays a vital role in improving speech, language, and communication skills. In this blog, we'll explore the primary reasons why repetition is a significant part of [...]
How to Slow Down Speech
/ in Uncategorized / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Have you ever been told that you talk too fast or been asked to slow down your fast speech? In today’s fast-paced, busy, and often chaotic society, it is more and more common for individuals of all ages to have this communication problem. While speaking quickly is not a specific speech disorder and is [...]
How Does Breathing Affect Speaking?
/ in Speech Disorders & Articulation / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Breathing is a fundamental part of life as it provides our bodies with oxygen, rids us of waste such as carbon dioxide, and allows us to live. Not only is breathing essential to our survival, but it also plays a vital role in the process of speech production. Understanding the relationship between speech production and [...]
Can ADHD Cause Speech Apraxia?
/ in ADHD & Executive Function / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Navigating the complicated landscape of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can highlight not only difficulties with focus and impulse control but also related communication challenges. Individuals with ADHD may have difficulties expressing themselves, maintaining attention in conversations, or regulating their speech patterns. Recognizing the connection between ADHD and communication issues is crucial to overcoming these challenges. [...]
How Loneliness and Self-Isolation Impact Speech and Communication
/ in Speech Disorders & Articulation / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
In a world that is increasingly interconnected through technology, the effects of loneliness and isolation loom larger than ever. Extended periods of isolation frequently lead to more than just emotional distress; they can also profoundly impair our capacity for effective communication. As we collectively navigate a landscape that is still marked by social distancing, remote [...]
What Causes Adult Mumbling?
/ in Speech Disorders & Articulation / by Avivit Ben-Aharon
Most of us have been told at one time or another to “stop mumbling!” when we were speaking. The truth is that everyone wants to be able to communicate clearly and be heard well by others. The goal of speaking, whether it involves a professional presentation, a social interaction, or another situation, is to captivate [...]