About our Approach
The Pillars of Impact Speech Therapy
1
Innovative Modalities
Therapies are always changing and evolving. We utilize recent innovative approaches, tools and techniques to support neurodevelopment and growth.
2
Brain-Based Speech Therapy
Our speech therapy integrates techniques to maximize neuroplasticity and cognitive capacity.
3
Holistic Wellness Lens
We take a neurodevelopmental, whole-person approach, recognizing that each individual has a unique nervous system.
Impact Speech Therapy is a brain-based speech and wellness clinic serving children, adults, and seniors in Chico and Butte County. We specialize in traditional speech therapy, cognitive-communication support, swallowing therapy, and innovative services like QEEG, primitive reflex integration, and photobiomodulation (red light therapy).
Our goal is to support nervous system regulation, cognitive wellness, and functional communication across the lifespan.
Virtual consultations and caregiver coaching are also available. We’re committed to helping every individual reach their fullest potential through personalized, research-driven care.
FAQs
How do I know what type of therapy is best for my needs?
We begin with a consultation or evaluation to get to know you or your child’s strengths and needs. Based on this, we develop a customized therapy plan that may include one or more services best suited to your goals.
What is the evaluation process?
The evaluation process typically includes:
A comprehensive intake and case history
Clinical observations
Standardized and/or informal assessments
Optional tools such as QEEG or reflex screenings
Following the evaluation, you’ll receive a personalized report with findings and recommendations for therapy.
How long are sessions?
Most therapy sessions are 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the service and the client’s needs. We also offer 15-minute consultations for new clients, brief check-ins, and caregiver coaching.
Do you take insurance?
We currently accept Medicare Part B for adult speech therapy services. For all other clients, we are a private-pay practice at this time. We are in the process of applying to become in-network with additional insurance providers. We are also happy to provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.
FAQs
What are some of the methods you use in therapy?
Our therapy sessions are customized based on each client’s needs and may include a blend of traditional and innovative approaches. Some of the tools and methods we use include:
Primitive Reflex Integration
QEEG Brain Mapping
Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
Photobiomodulation (Red Light Therapy)
Low-Level Laser Therapy
Interactive Metronome©
Neurosage
LSVT© (for voice)
ESP (for swallowing)
Cognitive-Communication Therapy
Play-Based and Sensory-Informed Activities
More details about each of these are listed below.
What is primitive reflex integration?
Primitive reflex integration is a therapy approach that helps address early movement patterns (called primitive reflexes) that may not have fully developed or integrated. These reflexes are essential for building the foundation of the brain-body connection in infancy. When retained, they can interfere with motor coordination, balance, emotional regulation, attention, and learning.
Primitive reflexes are closely tied to speech and language development, as well as cognitive function. For example, unintegrated reflexes can affect muscle tone, postural stability, oral-motor coordination, and the brain’s ability to process and respond to information. By supporting reflex integration through specific movement-based activities, we help promote readiness for communication, learning, and regulation in both children and adults.
What is a QEEG?
QEEG stands for Quantitative Electroencephalography. It’s a non-invasive brain mapping tool that measures the brain’s electrical activity. This data provides a “map” of how different areas of the brain are functioning and communicating.
QEEG can highlight patterns related to attention, processing, regulation, speech-language comprehension, and overall cognitive performance. It helps identify specific areas of the brain that may benefit from more targeted support, and is a valuable tool in planning individualized speech therapy and cognitive wellness treatment.
FAQs
What is the Safe and Sound Protocol?
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a therapeutic listening program designed to calm the nervous system and promote better regulation, communication, and emotional resilience. It uses specially filtered music to support the vagus nerve and enhance social engagement.
What is photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as red light therapy, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support cellular health. We use PBM in a non-invasive, supportive way to promote general cognitive wellness and nervous system regulation.
What is low-level laser therapy?
Low-level laser therapy is a gentle, light-based modality that supports cellular energy and tissue health. At Impact Speech Therapy, we use it as part of our cognitive wellness and nervous system support tools, tailored to each individual’s needs.
FAQs
What is Interactive Metronome©?
Interactive Metronome© (IM) is a computer-based therapy that improves timing, rhythm, coordination, and processing speed—skills that are deeply connected to speech, language, and cognition. It helps strengthen neural connections that support attention, working memory, auditory processing, and motor planning. IM is used with both children and adults to improve focus, communication, and daily functioning.
What is Neurosage?
Neurosage is a digital therapeutic system that uses movement, visual stimulation, and sound to activate specific areas of the brain. It’s designed to support balance, coordination, attention, and cognitive readiness. We use Neurosage as part of a multimodal therapy approach to help regulate the nervous system and enhance brain function for children and adults.
What is LSVT©?
LSVT© (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) is an evidence-based voice therapy approach used primarily with individuals with Parkinson’s disease or other neurological conditions. It targets loudness and vocal clarity, helping clients speak with more confidence and effectiveness.
What is ESP?
ESP (Effective Swallowing Protocol) is a structured and research-based approach to swallowing therapy. It supports safe swallowing, muscle strength, and coordination for individuals with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties).
