Functional neurological disorders
Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a brain processing disorder. It is due to abnormal brain function rather than disease, damage, or structural problems. FND symptoms are real and can significantly impact daily life—even though standard tests like MRIs or CT scans appear normal.
Speech therapy can help. Using evidence-based treatments, I support clients to make meaningful improvements in their symptoms and everyday function.
Communication
Functional speech and language symptoms can include stuttering, slurred speech, difficulty with articulation, slow speech, and word-finding difficulties. These symptoms can come and go. Speech therapy focuses on retraining normal speech patterns to restore communication.
Cognition
People with functional neurological disorders can experience brain fog, difficulty with memory, confusion, and slower information processing. Speech therapy can help by training strategies to support participation in everyday activities.
More about functional neurological disorders
Voice & Chronic Cough
Functional voice disorders can include strained, hoarse or breathy voice and speaking in a whisper, persistent falsetto, or child-like voice. Muscle tension dysphonia is a common type of functional voice disorder. Chronic cough and throat clearing may also be functional. With treatment, these symptoms can improve.
Speech therapy for FND
As a speech therapist with a specialization in treatment of FND, my goal is to create a supportive environment where my clients can ask questions, understand their condition, and practice skills.
I help adults with functional communication, voice, and cough disorders by retraining the nervous system with targeted treatments, developing practical strategies for everyday situations, and building confidence. Treatment focuses on function and problem-solving for everyday challenges.
By listening carefully to my clients and customizing treatment, I help them return to the activities that matter most.
What clients are saying:
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After just a few sessions with Lyssa, I am able to use my old voice again! She gave me the tools I needed and helped me learn how to use them.
— B, client with functional voice disorder
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Lyssa Rome is the first provider who really took the time to listen to me. She really understands FND and how to treat it. After more than a year of stuttering, I feel like I’m in control of my speech again.
— R, client with FND