Finding Your Voice Again: Why SPEAK OUT!® Therapy Matters for People with Parkinson’s Disease

A Parkinson’s diagnosis brings with it a host of physical changes—but one of the most frustrating and isolating symptoms can be the gradual loss of voice and speech clarity.

You may notice your voice getting softer, speaking takes more effort, or others asking you to repeat yourself more often. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and there’s something you can do about it.

That’s where SPEAK OUT!® therapy comes in.

🗣 What Is SPEAK OUT!®?

SPEAK OUT!® is a research-based speech therapy program specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and related neurological conditions. Developed by the Parkinson Voice Project, this program helps people regain and retain their ability to speak with intention—restoring strength, clarity, and confidence in everyday communication.

💡 Why Speech Changes Happen in Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s affects the motor system, including the muscles that control speech and swallowing. As a result, many people develop hypophonia—a soft voice that is difficult to hear—or mumbled, rapid, or monotone speech. These changes can lead to social withdrawal and frustration, making it harder to stay connected with friends, family, and caregivers.

🌟 The Power of SPEAK OUT!®

The goal of SPEAK OUT!® is to retrain the brain to use the voice with intent—a deliberate and conscious effort to speak loudly and clearly. Here’s how it helps:

• Strengthens speech muscles through daily, structured practice

• Improves articulation, breath support, and vocal intensity

• Boosts cognitive-linguistic function through focused speaking tasks

• Builds confidence and social participation

• Can slow the progression of speech difficulties

Best of all, it’s personalized—a certified Speech-Language Pathologist works one-on-one with you to guide you through the program and tailor exercises to your unique needs.

🧠 Brain → Voice → Life

The philosophy behind SP

EAK OUT!® is simple but powerful:

“When you speak with intent, you activate the brain to support your voice.”

This means you don’t just get a louder voice—you engage the neurological pathways that help you communicate more effectively and stay connected with the world around you. It’s not just speech therapy. It’s life therapy.

🏡 Therapy That Meets You Where You Are

SPEAK OUT!® can be delivered in-person or virtually, making it accessible no matter your location or mobility level. After completing the program, many clients join The LOUD Crowd®, a group maintenance program that keeps the voice strong with ongoing support, practice, and community connection.

📣 Don’t Wait to Get Started

The earlier you begin SPEAK OUT!®, the better the outcomes. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and notice changes in speech or voice, don’t wait—intervention now can preserve your ability to speak later.

At Virtual Speech Solutions, we are proud to offer SPEAK OUT!® therapy, delivered by certified clinicians who understand your journey and are here to support your voice every step of the way.

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today!!