Speech therapy is a treatment designed to help individuals improve their communication skills and address issues related to speech, language, and swallowing. It can benefit people of all ages, from young children to older adults. Here are the main areas speech therapy covers:

1. Speech Disorders: This includes articulation (pronunciation), fluency (such as stuttering), and voice disorders (issues with pitch or volume).
2. Language Disorders: Speech therapists help with understanding and using language, including vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills.
3. Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia): Therapists work with individuals who have difficulty swallowing, providing strategies to improve safety and efficiency during eating.
4. Social Communication: Therapy may focus on skills for effective interaction, such as understanding social cues and maintaining conversations.
5. Cognitive-Communication Disorders: This involves addressing issues related to memory, attention, problem-solving, and executive function, often following brain injuries or strokes.

Speech therapy typically involves personalized assessments and tailored treatment plans, using various techniques and activities to promote progress.