Voice Therapy – Adults

Voice therapy is an evidence-based service provided by a Speech-Language Pathologist that focuses on improving vocal function, efficiency, and comfort. It can be used for vocal rehabilitation, prevention of further strain or injury, reducing tension, or to support individuals in developing a voice that aligns with their identity, including gender affirming voice care.

 

Certain professions, such as teaching, ministry, telemarketing, law, singing, and coaching, can put individuals at a higher risk due to the constant strain on their vocal cords.

Voice Disorders

A voice disorder refers to any change in the quality, pitch, loudness, or effort of the voice that interferes with communication or does not feel typical for the individual. This may include conditions such as vocal nodules, vocal polyps, muscle tension dysphonia, vocal fold paralysis, vocal fold atrophy or paradoxical vocal fold movement, as well as voice changes without a clear medical diagnosis.

When to consider voice therapy:

  • Persistent hoarseness, breathiness, or vocal strain
  • Vocal fatigue or loss of voice with use
  • Pain, tightness/tension, or discomfort when speaking
  • A constant feeling of “lump in the throat”
  • Reduced volume or difficulty projecting
  • Changes in pitch, loudness, or voice quality
  • A voice that feels inconsistent or unreliable
  • Symptoms related to paradoxical vocal fold movement (e.g., difficulty breathing during speech)
  • Voice changes following illness, surgery, or prolonged voice use

What to expect:

Voice therapy begins with a comprehensive assessment of vocal function, including case history, vocal demands, and contributing factors such as tension, breathing patterns, and vocal habits. A visit with an ENT is recommended before starting therapy to confirm a diagnosis that would help with planning for treatment.

Treatment is individualized and may include:

  • Exercises to improve vocal efficiency and reduce strain
  • Respiratory retraining to support coordination of breathing and voice
  • Techniques such as laryngeal massage to reduce muscle tension
  • Education on vocal hygiene and long-term voice care
  • Strategies to build consistency and confidence in everyday communication

Sessions are collaborative and focused on helping you develop sustainable voice use that meets your personal, social, and/or professional needs.

Neurological Voice Therapy

Neurological voice disorders result from disruption to the part of the brain that controls voice production. Individuals may experience reduced vocal loudness, monotone pitch, breathy or weak voice quality, vocal fatigue, or difficulty being heard and understood.

These changes may occur in the context of conditions such as: Parkinson’s disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other neurological disorders.

Neurological voice therapy focuses on improving the coordination of breathing, voice, and speech systems. Treatment is tailored to the individual and may include:

  • Exercises to increase vocal loudness and strength
  • Respiratory retraining to support breath control for speech
  • Techniques to improve vocal quality and reduce strain
  • Strategies to enhance clarity and communication effectiveness
  • Practice to support carryover into daily communication

Therapy is functional and goal-oriented, with an emphasis on improving participation in everyday communication.

Gender Affirming Voice Therapy

Gender-affirming voice therapy supports individuals in developing a voice that aligns with their gender identity and personal communication goals. This therapy is focused on exploring and building voice patterns that feel authentic, comfortable, and sustainable.

Therapy is individualized and may target areas such as pitch, resonance, intonation, vocal quality, and communication style. Sessions may also include respiratory retraining, vocal efficiency exercises, and strategies to reduce strain or fatigue.

Gender-affirming voice therapy can be accessed at any stage and does not require a medical diagnosis or referral. The focus is on creating a voice that feels congruent with how you want to express yourself across different environments and contexts.

We’re here to help! Contact us for more information or to schedule an assessment and treatment.