PROMPT Speech Program

The PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets) speech program is a specialized and evidence-based approach used by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to assess and treat speech sound disorders, particularly those related to motor speech difficulties. PROMPT is designed to help individuals, including children and adults, improve their speech production and articulation by targeting the coordination of the muscles involved in speech. Here are the key components and principles of the PROMPT speech program:

1. Individualized Assessment: PROMPT begins with a thorough assessment of the individual's speech and motor speech abilities. The SLP evaluates the coordination and movement of the oral-motor muscles involved in speech production.
2. Motor-Based Approach: PROMPT is unique in that it is a motor-based approach to speech therapy. It focuses on the physical movements required for speech sounds rather than simply targeting specific speech sounds or phonemes.
3. Detailed Analysis: During assessment and treatment, the SLP analyzes and breaks down the movements and muscle patterns required for each speech sound. This analysis helps identify the specific areas of difficulty.
4. Tactile Cueing: A hallmark of PROMPT therapy is the use of tactile cues. SLPs use their hands and fingers to provide gentle, tactile cues to guide the individual's oral-motor movements. These cues help the individual feel and adjust their muscle movements for accurate speech production.
5. Hierarchical Approach: PROMPT therapy follows a hierarchical approach, progressing from simpler to more complex speech sounds and motor patterns. This approach ensures that individuals build foundational skills before targeting more challenging sounds.
6. Functional Goals: The therapy focuses on achieving functional communication goals. The SLP and the individual work together to set specific speech goals based on the individual's needs and priorities.
7. Individualized Treatment Plans: Treatment plans in PROMPT therapy are highly individualized. The SLP tailors the therapy to address the unique needs and challenges of each individual, considering factors like age, speech sound errors, and motor coordination difficulties.
8. Intensive and Regular Therapy: PROMPT therapy often involves intensive and regular sessions to promote progress. The frequency and duration of therapy depend on the individual's needs and goals.
9. Parent and Caregiver Involvement: Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate in therapy sessions and receive training to support their loved one's progress. This involvement ensures that therapy strategies can be reinforced at home.
10. Progress Monitoring: Progress is continually monitored through assessments, observations, and data collection. Adjustments to the therapy plan are made as needed to track and accelerate improvement.
11. Cultural Sensitivity: PROMPT therapy is designed to be culturally sensitive and adaptable to diverse backgrounds and experiences. It recognizes the importance of considering cultural factors in intervention.

PROMPT therapy is often used to address a range of speech disorders, including childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) and other motor speech disorders. It has been found to be effective in improving speech intelligibility and communication for individuals with motor speech difficulties. However, PROMPT therapy is highly specialized, and SLPs require specific training and certification to administer it effectively.