Speech Language Treatment Plan for ADHD

Children with ADHD are more likely than their non-ADHD peers to have language problems, including problems expressing themselves and problems understanding others. Coupled with attentional and behavioral issues, language problems create imposing challenges to the child with ADHD.

Psychological Evaluation

• An evaluation should be conducted by a psychologist to assess emotional, cognitive and behavioral functioning, including attentional capacity, impulsivity, learning disabilities, IQ, auditory processing disorders, and achievement. If there is an indication of speech or language deficits, a speech and language pathologist (SLP) should conduct an evaluation.

Speech and Language Evaluation

• The SLP should assess speech, receptive language, expressive language, and social communication skills. Language skills assessed should include fluency (stuttering), speech articulation (pronunciation and clarity of speech), use and understanding of grammar (syntax), understanding and use of vocabulary (semantics), and awareness and use of speech sounds.

Formulate Treatment Plan

• An individualized treatment plan should be developed based on the strengths and weaknesses identified in the evaluations. The treatment plan should incorporate an interdisciplinary team that may include a psychiatrist or physician, psychologist, speech and language pathologist, teachers, school counselors, and parents.

Medication Management

• The psychiatrist or physician should identify, administer, and monitor medications to enhance attention and minimize impulsivity and hyperactivity. Medications can enhance the child’s ability to utilize therapy and educational programs.

Speech and Language Therapy (SLP)

• Speech and language therapy will focus on goals based on the needs of the person as determined by the assessment. The SLP should coordinate with teachers to address specific classroom and educational goals.

Educators' and Therapists’ Role

• The psychologist or counselor can contribute by developing cognitive and behavioral interventions for use by the child and family. Teachers should make accommodations in their individualized education plan to address attentional, behavioral, and language problems. For example, the child can be seated near the front of the class to minimize distractions, tutoring can be made available, and teachers can use behavioral strategies to enhance compliance.