The Voice Center houses both otolaryngologists (Ear, Nose and Throat physicians) and speech-language pathologists that work with individuals to improve their vocal skills. Good communication skills are essential to achieve success in professional careers and build a solid self-image. There are many factors which can impede effective communication including: an inability to project the voice, a medical voice disorder, a stuttering disorder or an unpleasant vocal quality.

The speech-language pathologist must evaluate and identify a problem before an individual can work on improving the voice. Our speech-language pathologists conduct a variety of diagnostic tests including digital audio recording, acoustic analysis and analysis of voice production. Additionally, we perform videolaryngostroboscopy which uses a special light source to provide a high-speed, stop action view of the vocal cords to help diagnose and treat voice disorders. We also provide a detailed evaluation of the structure and function of the voice box and vocal cords.

Voice Problems

Professionals who rely heavily on their voices (e.g., lawyers, commodities traders, receptionists, teachers, or sales persons) often have trouble with their voice as a result of voice overuse or abuse. Most of these people have seen an otolaryngologist who recommends voice therapy.

Another cause for voice problems is a neurological disorder or an injury. For example, a person may have had a neck injury which caused paralysis of his/her vocal cord and as a result he/she has a very weak voice. A person may be suffering from a neurological condition known as spasmodic dysphonia which affects the muscles of the voice box, leaving the person with a strained, strangled vocal quality. Our Ear, Nose and Throat physicians are specially trained in the treatment of this disorder which involves injecting Botox into the vocal muscles.

Voice therapy focuses on teaching the individuals to use their voice correctly without strain or tension. Individuals need to achieve proper breath support, pitch, resonance and relaxation for optimal vocal quality. Voice therapy sessions are conducted by certified and licensed speech-language pathologists. Sessions are usually held once a week for an hour.

Specialist Faculty

Speech language pathologist Daniel E. Martin, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, serves as the voice pathology director. Dr. Martin is an Associate Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery with over 30 years of clinical experience in voice disorders. He has previously directed professional voice centers at Lakeshore Ear, Nose and Throat Center, St. Clair Shores in Michigan, and at The Medical College of Ohio in Toledo. He has a background in music and has served as a voice pathology consultant to the Michigan Opera Theatre and the Toledo Opera.