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Insights from a Speech-Language Pathologist

Chronic Cough

Chronic cough, a persistent cough lasting over eight weeks in adults or four in children, can severely impact quality of life. Common causes include post-nasal drip, asthma, GERD, respiratory infections, or environmental irritants. When traditional treatments fall short, behavioral cough suppression therapy (BCST) offers a drug-free solution. BCST helps retrain the cough reflex, which can become hypersensitive in chronic cases. Techniques include diaphragmatic breathing, swallowing strategies, and maintaining vocal hygiene. Benefits include improved quality of life, patient empowerment, and non-invasiveness. Ideal for those preferring non-medication approaches, BCST may complement medical treatments for a more holistic solution.

How GERD Affects Swallowing

This blog post will explore how GERD affects swallowing. We'll break down the causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options for GERD-related swallowing difficulties. The article will also offer tips for managing symptoms, discuss when to seek medical help, and answer common questions about GERD and swallowing problems

What is Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)?

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), often called "silent reflux," occurs when stomach acid flows back into the throat and voice box. Unlike GERD, which typically causes heartburn, LPR often lacks this symptom, making it harder to detect. It can affect people of all ages, though it’s most common in adults.

Let's talk globus sensation (globus pharyngeus)

Globus sensation, also known as globus pharyngeus, is a non-painful feeling of a lump in the throat. It can be persistent or intermittent and has various causes. Learn more about its diagnosis and treatment options.

National Voice Day

In honor of National Voice Day that was recently on April 16, it is a great time to spread the word about the marvel of the human voice and the importance of taking care of it.

Parkinson’s Disease and The SPEAK OUT! ® Therapy Program

You have received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, and your life and your loved one’s lives are forever changed because of a progressive neurological disease. Some of the early signs of Parkinson’s Disease include tremor, small handwriting, loss of smell, trouble sleeping, trouble moving or walking, constipation, a soft or lower voice, masked face, dizziness or fainting, and stooping or hunching over (Parkinson’s Foundation, 2024). The good news is there are evidence-based therapies that we know can help! It is recommended that you may need speech and swallow therapy at some point to address speech, voice, swallowing, and cognitive changes because of the progression of Parkinson’s.

About

Cammy Lawlor, M.S., CCC-SLP

Founder, Speech-language Pathologist

Skill, patience, and excellence are what Cammy brings to the table. Cammy graduated with a Master’s of Science in Speech-language Pathology from the University of Montana. Cammy has been practicing medical speech-language pathology for over 9 years in several settings including inpatient, outpatient, home health and skilled nursing. She has developed a passion for serving the adult and geriatric population, when she is working with them she feels most aligned. She found her niche and has spent countless hours learning through continuing education, obtaining specialty certifications, and hands on experience in order to provide a high quality inclusive therapy experience for her clients and their families.

She has always dreamed of owning a private practice and being able to serve adults with superior service. Cammy's goal with her private practice is to take a holistic approach to treat the person, not the patient, and to provide extraordinary therapy while not being restricted by large company productivity standards and policies. Cammy is dedicated to providing comprehensive and functional therapy and spending the time that her clients' need with them. Cammy is passionate about her field and is honored at the chance to work towards your goals.

When Cammy is not practicing, you can find her going on adventures with her 2 young sons, husband, and chocolate lab. She enjoys living an active lifestyle and also has a passion for functional health and integrative wellness. She loves to camp, mountain bike, hike, ski, stand up paddle board, and enjoys being in nature!

TESTIMONIALS

55 yr old male - In Boise
The Idaho Speech And Swallow Services was the only one who could resolve swallowing issues in one of my family members. Cammy Lawlor, who is the speech pathologist, is the best educated speech pathologist we have run into after encountering several of them after a hospitalization. I highly recommend her as she is very knowledgeable, professional, and personable. Don’t give up hope if you have swallowing issues. I’m sure Cammy will be able to help you!
57 yr old female - In Eagle
Cammy Lawlor SLP is a superb speech therapist, and I really appreciated her expertise, compassion, encouragement and support throughout the therapeutic journey. She is very knowledgeable in her field and has excellent contacts in the valley for other health care resources as well. I highly recommend her!
44 yr old female - In Meridian
Finding Cammy was a blessing. My husband was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s and we needed someone that worked with Parkinson’s patients and the speak out program. Cammy was able to connect with my husband and help increase his volume, slow his speech and make him more aware as he spoke. The lessons were invaluable. She is very connected to the Parkinson’s community and has been helpful with advice and resources. We love her!!! Best decision ever.
32 yr old female - In Boise
Our client was referred to Cammy after we had little success using another speech and swallow service through the hospital. Our client had reservations of trying again but Cammy put their fears at ease almost instantly. She was wonderful! Very knowledgeable, very thorough and tailored her treatment to the clients specific needs. As a Care Manager for a non-profit with multiple clients we will definitely be requesting her again and again! Absolutely amazing service!
52 yr old female - In Boise
So helpful! Cammy brings her wealth of knowledge, treasury of resources, and her love of helping people heal into every session. We love having her on our therapy team as we navigate this healing process.
63 yr old female - In Boise
Cammy is amazing at her profession. So in tune with her patients. She definitely goes above and beyond any other therapist(s) I have been to. I had 2 cervical spine fusion surgeries, 6 months apart. My post surgical repercussions included: my throat, swallowing, esophagus, larynx, vocal cords, the function of my hyoid bone, epiglottis, severe nerve and muscle damage etc. I am still recovering but I have tons of hope because of her treatment to and for me.I hope I got this right :)Thank goodness for you Cammy!

GET IN TOUCH

We’d love to hear from you. Here’s how you can reach us.

“Cammy has helped and taught me so much, my memory has improved with the strategies she showed me”

-84 yr old female with Mild Cognitive Impairment

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