What Is Trauma-Informed Speech Therapy?
Trauma-informed speech therapy is an approach to care that recognizes how trauma, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental differences can shape a person's communication, voice, and relationship to the therapeutic process itself. It is not a separate set of techniques so much as a framework that informs how assessment and treatment are delivered: at a pace that feels manageable, with attention to sensory and emotional responses, and with the patient's autonomy and comfort as ongoing priorities.
For neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD, autism, or anxiety-related diagnoses, standard clinical environments can sometimes feel poorly adapted. Assessment tools may not account for atypical communication styles. Treatment pacing may not suit variable attention or sensory needs. A trauma-informed approach addresses these gaps directly.
At Idaho Face & Voice, this framework is applied to voice therapy, breathing retraining, and upper airway care, as well as to the full range of adult speech and language services Heather provides.
How Heather Approaches This Work
Heather L. Robinson, MS, CCC-SLP, is an OutCare-certified provider and an LGBTQ+-affirming clinician with over 33 years of clinical experience. She has worked with a significant population of neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD and autism, as well as teens and young adults navigating anxiety-related voice and breathing dysfunction. Her approach is built on the understanding that effective care starts with a therapeutic relationship the patient feels safe in.
In practice, this means:
- Assessment that accounts for atypical communication styles and sensory differences
- Treatment pacing and session structure adapted to the individual's needs
- Clear, transparent communication about what to expect at each step
Heather also works with occupational voice users, including teachers, lawyers, and call center professionals, who may carry workplace-related stress or anxiety alongside their presenting voice or communication concern.
What to Expect
Initial Assessment
Treatment
Ongoing Care and Home Program
Who This Approach Supports
Trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming care at Idaho Face & Voice is well suited for adults who:
- Have ADHD, autism, or an anxiety-related diagnosis alongside a voice or communication concern
- Have had previous clinical experiences that felt poorly adapted or uncomfortable
- Are managing voice, breathing, or upper airway dysfunction in the context of broader stress or nervous system dysregulation
This approach is also appropriate for gender-diverse and LGBTQ+ adults seeking affirming care, and for patients whose voice or communication concerns are intertwined with identity, self-advocacy, or occupational demands.
Office Visit - Speech Therapy
To help your visit run smoothly:
- Complete your intake form 24 hours before your visit
- Check in ON TIME (NO early check-in please—your provider may be with another patient)
- Bring water + 1-2 drinking straws for your first visit
- No food or drink allowed in the clinic
- Fragrance free clinic
- Set up your Account—this is how your therapist communicates with you.
Your visit will include a personalized evaluation and treatment plan based on your needs and goals.
We look forward to working with you!
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Heather L Robinson
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Idaho Face & Voice serves neurodivergent and trauma-affected adults in Boise and the Treasure Valley, with telehealth available for eligible Idaho patients. Heather is accepting new patients.
