About Us
Danville Speech and Hearing Center (DSHC) is a non-profit United Way partner agency that has been providing Speech-Language Pathology services to individuals of all ages throughout the Dan River Region since 1961.
Our mission is to provide the highest quality speech-language pathology services at the lowest cost to citizens in need of these services. We enable each client to attain his/her optimal communication skills. We provide not only restoration or acquisition of speech and language skills but also increase patients' abilities to participate in activities to enhance their quality of life.
The clinical staff at DSHC is state-licensed and nationally certified in their field of expertise. The center supports the clinical staff in meeting continuing education requirements for maintaining certification and identifying recent developments in their field.
We serve residents of Danville, Pittsylvania County, Halifax County, Martinsville. Henry County and Caswell County of any age who need speech-language pathology services including screening, evaluation and treatment of speech sound disorders, voice disorders, language disorder, stuttering, swallowing problems, memory impairments and aphasia (language disorder resulting from a stroke or traumatic brain injury).
Children of all ages can experience communication disorders. Some are due to autism, hearing loss, chronic ear infections or developmental delays but for many, the cause is unknown. In recent years the DSHC has seen a growing number of clients in their 30s, 40s and 50s needing services due to strokes and neurological diseases including ALS and Parkinson's Disease.
Our Services
If you're someone who struggles with communication, speech, or language, speech therapy services could be an excellent solution for you. These services are tailored to address a variety of speech and language disorders, including stuttering, articulation, voice disorders, and language comprehension. By creating personalized treatment plans and guiding individuals through targeted exercises, skilled speech therapists can help improve speech production, language skills, and social communication abilities. Whether you're seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one, speech therapists are experts in their field and can provide services in a range of settings, such as schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practices. With their guidance and support, you can develop the tools you need to communicate effectively and confidently in any situation.
SCREENINGS
Speech therapy screening is a process of assessing an individual's speech and language abilities. It is typically done by a speech-language pathologist or other trained professional to identify any potential speech or language disorders. The screening may involve observing the individual's speech and language skills, asking questions about their communication abilities, and administering standardized tests if necessary. The results of the screening can help determine if further evaluation or therapy is needed to address any speech or language difficulties. Early identification and intervention through speech therapy screening can significantly improve communication abilities and overall quality of life.
EVALUATION
The evaluation may include standardized tests to measure speech and language skills, observation of the individual's speech production and language use in various settings, and interviews with the individual and their family or caregivers to gain a deeper understanding of their communication abilities. The results of the evaluation provide valuable information about the individual's speech and language abilities and can be used to develop a customized treatment plan to address any communication difficulties. Speech evaluations are an essential part of speech therapy and play a critical role in helping individuals improve their communication skills.
TREATMENT
The treatment plan may involve a variety of techniques, exercises, and activities to address specific communication goals, such as improving articulation, expanding vocabulary, or developing social communication skills. Therapy sessions may be conducted individually or in a group setting and can take place in a variety of settings, such as schools, clinics, or homes. The length of the treatment and frequency of sessions will depend on the individual's needs and progress. With consistent and personalized speech therapy treatment, individuals can improve their communication abilities, increase their confidence, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Clients are referred to DSHC by physicians, healthcare providers, home health agencies, nursing homes, Disability Determination Services, the Veterans Administration, local schools, daycare facilities, and self-referrals.
Our Staff
Jenny Gay, MS, CCC-SLP
Executive Director
Administrative Assistant
Joann Whitlow
Insurance Clerk
Our Board Members
Sally Burton
President
Conrad Smith
Vice President
Katie Wright Thomas
Secretary
George Brooks
Treasurer
Joe Evans, Barry Sides, Jack Morning, LaVon Bowman, Mark Lavinder, April Love-Loveless, Miller Moreau, Twyla Price, Barry Sides, McKelvey Stone, Laine Friend Waller, Elizabeth Ware
Testimonials
When we felt helpless and didn't know how to help our child who stuttered, we turned to Danville Speech and Hearing Center. It was such a comfort to have a local, caring organization to help us navigate this disorder that we knew very little about, just like they have helped countless families. It is out hope that Danville Speech and Hearing will have the resources needed to continue aiding local families and help individuals channel their struggles into positive outcomes that benefit our community.
- Parent
In the early years of attending elementary school, I was diagnosed with a severe speech impediment. I was recommended to receive services within the school; however I was terrifief of the speech therapist provided within the school system. Danville Speech and Hearing Center was there to provide the needed services. The individuals were very easy to work with and made the experience seamless. Today, I can speak in front of multiple indiduals and groups with confidence.
- Former Client
These employees were absolutely wonderful to me. They listened to my sob stories, wiped my tears away and told me that I would be able to do these things again, the very things most people take for granted. I cannot speak loud enough to tell you that their services help so many people. The staff goes beyond their call with their patients. They are patient, give of their personal time, and truly care for their patients.
- Former Board Member & Client
Our family is so thankful for the Danville Speech & Hearing Center. My three year old has a speech delay as well as other developmental challenges. Jenny works with our family to meet these challenges head on. Through lots of play & structured therapy, Jenny has helped my daughter learn to communicate with words and signs. Most importantly, she has taught our family how to best support my daughter & encourage her communication
- Morgan Horne, Parent
"It's hard to put your child's well-being into someone else's hands, but shortly after my son, Hank, started with Danville Speech and Hearing and Jenny Gay, all my fears and insecurities melted away. Not only was I at ease that my son was in good hands, I was amazed at what they were able to accomplish with him. Hank had some minor speech delays for the months leading up to him starting kindergarten. But after working with Jenny, he was able to successfully learn his letters, and appropriate phonics, and even started reading! All of this has greatly eased the transition to kindergarten. What's more, he genuinely enjoyed his time with Jenny and looked forward to spending time with her. We are grateful for all of the kindness, encouragement, and support from Danville Speech and Hearing!"
- Megan James, Parent
Contact Information
Our Address
Opening Hours
742 Wilson Street, Danville, VA 24541
Tel: (434) 793-8255
Fax: (434) 793-6017
Monday - Thursday
By Appointment Only
Friday & Saturday
CLOSED