Speech-Language Pathology

Scope of Care

The CDRC Speech and Language Program provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services for children and young adults. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) evaluate and treat individuals with typical and atypical function in the areas of language comprehension & expression, speech sound production, voice & resonance, fluency, cognition, and feeding & swallowing. In addition to direct clinical service, professional roles also include prevention & advocacy, research, education, and administration. The CDRC Speech and Language Program places a major focus on difficult-to-manage conditions that require coordination of services between primary care providers, the school, and the family.

Services We Provide

Diagnostic and evaluation services include both single discipline and interdisciplinary team assessments, based upon identified needs. Individuals referred to the Speech and Language Program may be seen just by an SLP or may also require a hearing evaluation as part of their initial communication evaluation. These single discipline and "mini" team evaluations can be scheduled directly through the Speech and Language Program.

When a comprehensive team evaluation is appropriate, the following disciplines may be included with speech-language pathology: psychology, special education, nutrition, feeding, audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, neurology, genetics, social work, pediatrics, nursing, and/or child psychiatry. These full team evaluations are scheduled through the Child Development Program.

Speech and language management services include comprehensive and coordinated follow-up evaluations and treatment/therapy - with a particular focus on evolving issues related to speech, language, and feeding. Treatment services may be delivered on an individual or small group basis, may be delivered with and/or coordinated with other therapies, and typically involve the family as an integral part of the process.

Service Providers

All faculty in the Speech and Language Clinic hold the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, as well as a Speech-Language Pathology license from the State of Oregon. In addition, individual SLPs have advanced training and may hold specialty credentials in areas of particular expertise. Some of these specialties include:

  • Craniofacial disorders
  • Feeding and swallowing
  • Oral sensorimotor disorders
  • Autism
  • Specific language impairment
  • Cochlear implants
  • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT)
  • Fluency disorders
  • Infant-Toddler communication
  • Literacy

How to make a Referral

Referrals are welcome from any source including parents, educators, caseworkers, physicians, and other health/allied health care providers. Many families require a referral from their primary care provider in order for their insurance to cover the service; if this is the case, our bilingual administrative staff can help you with the process. For more information, or to initiate a referral, please call 503-418-0290.

Program Director


Candace K. Ganz

Location of Services