adult client
adult population
Down syndrome
Heather Peterson
Heather Vukelich
jaw weakness
Level Therapist
OPT
Oral Placement Therapy
speech clarity
speech issues
therapy success
tongue movement
Success Story: Emma & Heather
Heather A. Vukelich, MS, CCC-SLP, TalkTools Level 4 Therapist specialized in Down Syndrome, has recorded her adult client Emma along her progression in speech clarity, from 18 to 24. Heather sees clients in her private practice Happy Kids Therapy in Danville, CA. Here is what she writes about Emma.
"Emma is a very intelligent and social young woman with Down syndrome. At the initiation of therapy Emma had severe jaw weakness and extremely limited tongue movement. She worked very hard overcoming both. As you can see Emma's speech clarity increased greatly through her dedication to the program. Other parents often comment on Emma's clarity. They are often very surprised when they learn she started the program when she was 18. Emma is a true testimony to the TalkTools program and her intrinsic motivation. Emma is an incredible young woman who I am proud to call a good friend."
- Heather Vukelich
Video 1: Emma's first therapy session at 18
Video 2: Post jaw work / lip rounding at 19
Video 3: /t/ and vowels post tongue work at 23
Video 4: Generalizing /t, d, n, l/ & counting at 24
Video 5: Celebrating her success and working on /sh/ and /t/ at 24
Video 6: Emma's last therapy session at 24
Congrats Emma on your perseverance and clear speech!
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Praising God for all He is doing for you. You are working hard and even though I don’t know you I am proud of you. My youngest sister had Down Syndrome and past away in 2006 at 40 yrs old. She was everything to us. Keep up the great work Emma. Praying for you also Heather. Thank you for making a difference.
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