Speech therapy, also known as speech-language pathology, is a specialized field focused on diagnosing and treating communication disorders and swallowing difficulties. Speech therapists, or speech-language pathologists (SLPs), work with people of all ages, from infants to seniors, who may have conditions affecting their ability to speak, understand language, or swallow safely. They assess individuals to identify specific speech or language disorders such as stuttering, voice disorders, articulation problems, aphasia (difficulty understanding or producing language), or dysphagia (swallowing disorders). Treatment plans are tailored to each person’s needs and may include exercises to improve articulation, voice modulation, comprehension skills, or strategies for alternative communication methods. Speech therapists also collaborate closely with families, educators, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and support. The goal of speech therapy is to enhance communication abilities, improve quality of life, and empower individuals to participate more fully in social, academic, and professional settings.