Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 18, 2025
News Summary
Western Kentucky University has introduced the SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program to assist individuals with Parkinson’s Disease in overcoming speech and swallowing challenges. This innovative program offers intensive speech therapy sessions to help patients regain vocal abilities. Funded by the Parkinson Voice Project, the program is free for participants and involves both in-person and telepractice sessions, ensuring accessibility for Kentucky residents. Student involvement from WKU’s Speech Pathology Master’s Program enhances the learning opportunities for future speech therapists while providing essential support to those in need.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – New Therapy Program for Parkinson’s Disease Launched at WKU
The SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program has been successfully launched at Western Kentucky University (WKU) to assist individuals with Parkinson’s Disease who face challenges with speech and swallowing. This innovative program aims to help patients regain and retain their speech, addressing one of the most common and debilitating symptoms of the disease.
Parkinson’s Disease affects over seven million people globally, with a substantial percentage—between 75% to 90%—experiencing speech or vocal problems. As the disease progresses, many individuals may struggle to communicate effectively due to reduced vocal volume and difficulties with vocal fold function. These challenges not only impact verbal communication but also increase the risk of choking on food and liquids.
Program Overview and Structure
The SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program involves a structured series of individual therapy sessions held two to three times per week over a span of four to five weeks, designed to provide intensive speech therapy. Participants are also given a practice booklet containing essential verbal exercises to facilitate continued practice at home.
As the disease can lead to speech decline over time, a critical component of the program involves the retention of learned skills. Patients are encouraged to participate in evaluations and refresher courses every three to six months to monitor their progress as the disease evolves.
To enhance the efficacy of therapy, the program includes various strategies that minimize cognitive load, prompting participants to speak with intent and purpose. Through simple exercises aimed at keeping the mind actively engaged, the SPEAK OUT!® program works to bolster vocal performance while encouraging social interaction among participants.
Student Involvement and Program Funding
The administration of the SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program primarily involves students from WKU’s Speech Pathology Master’s Program, offering them invaluable hands-on experience in the field of speech therapy. The program is made possible through funding provided by a grant from the Parkinson Voice Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding individuals with Parkinson’s in reclaiming their ability to speak.
Importantly, the program is offered free of charge to all participants, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from accessing essential speech therapy services. Additional offerings include online practice sessions and a weekly Parkinson’s Sing-Along to support ongoing engagement and skill development among patients.
Location and Accessibility
The SPEAK OUT!® Therapy sessions take place in the WKU Voice Care Program, located in the Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex at 104 Alumni Ave. Services are available both in-person and via telepractice for Kentucky residents, facilitating accessibility for individuals in various locations.
For enrollment and screening, interested individuals can contact Dr. Amy Engelhoven at 270-883-2736 or through the Parkinson Voice Project website for additional information.
FAQ Section
What is the SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program?
The SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program is a speech therapy initiative at WKU aiming to help individuals with Parkinson’s Disease regain and retain their speech abilities.
Who can benefit from this program?
Individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease or other neurological disorders that impact speech and swallowing may benefit from this program.
How often are the therapy sessions held?
Therapy sessions are held two to three times a week over a four to five-week period.
Is there a cost associated with the program?
No, the SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program is offered free of charge to participants.
Where are the therapy sessions conducted?
Sessions are conducted at the WKU Voice Care Program located in the Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex in Bowling Green, Kentucky, with options for telepractice available for some residents.
How can someone enroll in the program?
Individuals can enroll by contacting Dr. Amy Engelhoven at 270-883-2736 or visiting the Parkinson Voice Project website.
Key Features of the SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Target Population | Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological disorders |
| Session Frequency | Two to three sessions per week |
| Program Duration | Four to five weeks |
| Cost | Free of charge |
| Location | WKU Voice Care Program, Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex |
| Additional Offerings | Online practice sessions, weekly Sing-Along |
| Involvement of Students | Managed by WKU Speech Pathology Master’s Program students |
| Funding Source | Grant from Parkinson Voice Project |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Western Kentucky University Launches Free Therapy Program for Parkinson’s
Additional Resources
- WBKO: WKU Communication Disorders Clinic Introduces Therapy Program for Parkinson’s Disease
- Spectrum News: WKU Parkinson’s Disease Initiative
- WBKO: WKU Offering SPEAK OUT! Therapy Program for Parkinson’s
- Wikipedia: Parkinson’s Disease
- Google Search: Parkinson’s Disease therapy
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