Note: Image above is a progress picture of actual client.

"Orofacial Myology, formerly known as myofunctional therapy, is described as “the study and treatment of the oral and facial muscles as they relate to speech, dentition, chewing/bolus collection, swallowing, and overall mental and physical health.”

(Sandra R. Holtzman)

Signs and Symptoms that warrant an evaluation:

Mouth Breathing/Open mouth posture

Snoring/Audible Breathing

Restless sleeper/Frequent wakings

Bedwetting past a certain age

Grinding teeth

Oral habits (extended pacifier use, finger/thumb sucking)

Messy eater

Occlusions

Speech errors

Feeding difficulties

Tongue/lip/cheek ties

Orthodontic Relapse

*Not an exhaustive list.

If frenectomy has been recommended by release provider, Pre and Post frenectomy therapy is required when working with Sun Rises.

I encourage a consultative phone call to discuss any concerns.

"The whole body is interconnected, from the top of the head to the tip of the toes, and this includes the tongue and oral function. The tongue is the epicenter of development."

-Michelle Emanuel OTR/L IBCLC NBCR

My training for infants has been completed under Michelle Emanuel's framework, therefore The Pre & Post Frenectomy and Whole Body Therapy for Precrawling Babies (PPF) model is followed.

My training for Pre & Post Frenectomy care has also been completed under The BREATHE institute through the MYO Workshop Course. Therefore, the Breathe Insititute's protocol is followed for pre and post frenectomy care for children and adults who present with oral restrictions.

For Infants:

An evaluation is recommended if baby has:

Difficulty feeding/nursing

Difficulty latching to nurse/bottle feed

Tongue/lip/cheek ties

Head turning preference/Torticollis

Cranial Molding & Flattening (Head Shape Concerns)

*Not an exhaustive list.

I offer a holistic therapy approach. I view the whole child and consider all areas of development to address speech and language disorders.

I provide a comprehensive pediatric assessment to evaluate the following:

Receptive Language

Expressive Language

Articulation

Oral motor function

Therapy is tailored based on each child's skills and their individual needs.

My approach is play-based as I believe therapy should be engaging and enjoyable. You can expect a harmonious, fun and respectful relationship in therapy.

I take a collaborative and integrative approach and view the whole child.

I ensure to collaborate with professionals that play an important role in your child's life.

What does feeding therapy address (not limited to):

Difficulty chewing

Swallowing safely (coughing/choking)

Difficulty transitioning from pureed to solid

Difficulty transitioning from bottle to cup

Selective eating

Avoidance of certain foods, textures, temperature

Sensory-based/behavioral feeding difficulties.

My approach is respectful, nurturing, positive, and playful. I strive to provide a positive environment around food and during mealtimes.