| Category | Oral Placement Therapy |
Oral Placement Therapy (OPT) is a specialized therapeutic approach designed to address speech, language, and feeding challenges by focusing on the oral movements and muscle patterns involved in these activities. Developed by Sara Rosenfeld-Johnson, a speech-language pathologist, OPT aims to improve speech clarity, feeding skills, and overall oral motor function.
OPT is particularly beneficial for individuals with speech and feeding difficulties, including those with articulation disorders, apraxia of speech, dysarthria, and various oral motor challenges. It can also be effective for individuals with sensory and motor planning issues, as well as those with certain developmental disorders.
The therapy involves a systematic and hierarchical approach, breaking down oral movements into smaller, more manageable components. The therapist assesses the individual’s oral motor skills, including lip, tongue, and jaw movements, to identify specific areas of weakness or dysfunction. Based on this assessment, a tailored intervention plan is created to target and strengthen the necessary muscle groups.
One key aspect of OPT is the use of tools and exercises that provide tactile-kinesthetic feedback to the oral structures. These tools, such as the Horn Kit, the Z-Vibe, and the Bite Blocks, are designed to stimulate and activate specific muscles involved in speech and feeding. The therapist guides the individual through various exercises using these tools, promoting proper muscle activation and coordination.
The therapy progresses through a series of levels, each focusing on specific oral motor movements. For example, exercises may target lip rounding, tongue elevation, or jaw stability. As the individual gains proficiency at each level, they move on to more complex tasks, gradually building the foundation for improved speech and feeding skills.
OPT is often used in conjunction with traditional speech therapy techniques to address the broader aspects of communication. By targeting the underlying oral motor issues, OPT aims to enhance the effectiveness of speech therapy interventions.
Feeding challenges, such as difficulty with sucking, chewing, and swallowing, can also be addressed through OPT. The therapy helps improve oral motor coordination, strength, and sensory awareness, contributing to more successful and efficient feeding patterns.
It’s important to note that OPT requires a skilled and trained therapist who can accurately assess individual needs and provide appropriate guidance. Regular and consistent practice of prescribed exercises at home is typically encouraged to reinforce the progress achieved during therapy sessions.
In summary, Oral Placement Therapy is a specialized approach that targets oral motor movements to address speech, language, and feeding challenges. With its systematic and hierarchical structure, OPT aims to improve overall oral motor function, providing individuals with the tools to enhance their communication and feeding skills.
