Therapist Spotlight

By Fernanda Badauy

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When Speech Therapy Goes Beyond Childhood

Interview with Priyanka Rohra.

When people hear the words “speech therapy,” they often picture a young child overcoming a lisp, or a stutter. But for all age ranges, speech-language therapy is a vital part of healing, growth, and regaining confidence.

Priyanka Rohra

In this edition of the “Therapist Spotlight”, we sat down with Priyanka Rohra.Priyanka reminds us that “Speech therapy isn’t about perfection, it’s about helping you feel like yourself again, and that’s always worth it”.

Is there a benefit for Speech Therapy Later in Life?

“Neuroplasticity doesn’t have an expiry date,” Priyanka shares. “I’ve worked with adults who’ve had strokes or traumatic brain injuries and suddenly struggle to find words or follow conversations. I’ve also worked with teens with ADHD or ASD who just want to feel more understood or socially connected”

At its core, speech therapy is about much more than articulation. It’s about restoring or strengthening someone’s ability to connect with others and express who they are.

Navigating the Emotional Impact of Brain Injuries

When a person experiences a brain injury, the effects go far beyond speech. “I’ve seen firsthand how brain injuries affect not just speech, but a person’s identity and confidence. Many of our clients feel frustrated, anxious, or withdrawn”, she explains. “In our sessions, we focus on building a safe space where they feel heard and supported.”

Therapy focuses not only on communication goals but also on developing strategies to apply to real life situations while sill celebrating the small wins. Priyanka emphasizes how healing must be holistic: when needed, patients may also work closely with therapists and other specialists

Family Ties: The Untold Heroes of Recovery

Speech rehabilitation doesn’t begin nor end in the therapy room. “Family plays a huge role,” she says, “I’ve seen how something as small as a parent learning cueing strategies or a sibling encouraging home practice can completely shift a person’s motivation”. Progress is infinitely more successful when the client has support at home.

When families are informed and engaged, they don’t just cheer from the sidelines they become active teammates in the recovery journey.

Recovery Isn’t Linear, and That’s Okay

“Recovery isn’t a straight line” she admits. “Even if a skill hasn’t changed, the effort or independence level might have. We shift focus, adapt goals, or even take a step back to regroup.”

Her advice to families? Be patient, stay consistent, and understand that every step forward matters, even the slow ones.

Is It Ever Too Late to Start?

To anyone feeling hesitant or “too old” to seek help, she offers this message: “I’ve seen older clients learn new strategies, improve their speech, and gain confidence, sometimes after years of thinking ‘this is just how I am now.’ It’s never too late to invest in yourself.”

Ultimately, speech therapy isn’t about perfection, or a quick fix. It’s about reclaiming your voice, sometimes quite literally, and expressing yourself to feel seen once again.

Communication Is a Lifelong Right

Whether you’re navigating recovery after a brain injury or simply want to feel more connected in your day-to-day conversations, speech therapy can make a difference. And you don’t have to go through it alone.

At Speak Squad Connective Therapies, we support clients across the lifespan. Reach out to learn more about how therapy can support you or a loved one. Because everyone deserves to be heard, no matter their age, background, or starting point.