Aphasia is a language disorder caused by an injury to portions of the brain, usually the result of stroke or other brain injury. Speaking, reading, writing and understanding speech may be affected to varying degrees.

Program Focus

The MossRehab Aphasia Center was developed to meet the long-term communication and psychosocial needs of individuals who have been affected by aphasia. Research has shown that with continued treatment many of these patients can continue to make significant gains in the years following the initial injury.

Aphasia Center not only provides a specialized outpatient therapy program, it offers opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research, a computer lab, and an array of educational programs, activities and support groups, all designed to foster language recovery, conversational interactions, support, and life-long learning.
 

Special Program Features

1. MossRehab's Aphasia Center clinicians have access to the very latest research, often conducted on campus at Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI) and use these findings in their treatment programs. Patients may undergo extensive in depth evaluations using both traditional and specialized tests developed by MRRI and its research affiliates to gain a better understanding of their aphasia and how best to treat it. In addition to having had extensive clinical experience, our speech–language pathologists in the ACT program are also research trained.
    
2. We provide focused and meaningful intervention at strategic points in the recovery process. This can occur through participation in research at MRRI, through short-term therapy in the ACT program, language practice in the computer lab, or through the various group activities in the Aphasia Activity Center.
    
3. The Aphasia Center programs are designed to make self-learning possible and effective. Computers are available with preprogrammed exercises, support staff to guide and structure the interaction and fostering communication groups in which patients can practice and use their communication skills in a supportive environment.
    
4. MossTalk Words®, developed by MossRebab researchers and clinicians, and SentenceShaper™ developed by Dr. Marcia Linebarger, are specialized software programs that have undergone extensive research at MossRehab and other research institutions. MossTalk Words®, provides hours of practice in comprehending and producing words, phrases and sentences. Our speech-language pathologists routinely use MossTalk Words® to effectively select and deliver therapy exercises and track results. Patients are taught to use MossTalk independently at home or with a volunteer in the computer lab. In addition to MossTalk, Aphasia Center staff is trained to use other commercial software programs including SentenceShaper™, a unique program that aids patients in formulating and producing more complete and informative language. The Aphasia Center also trains volunteers to support and encourage patients as they learn to use the technology in our computer lab.
    
5. Our Activity Center takes a social approach to rehabilitation and offers educational programs, conversation and support groups, a book club and a place to socialize -- all crucial to long term recovery and reintegration into community activities. Professional and peer led groups provide opportunities for conversational interactions, psychosocial support and education.

Voices of MossRehab Aphasia Center (VOMAC) is the driving force behind the Aphasia Center. VOMAC volunteers organize events, run group activities, spearhead fundraising events and advocate for aphasia awareness. The following activities are currently offered:

1. Women with aphasia support group
2. Men with aphasia support group
3. Talking Book Club
4. Card players
5. Conversation groups
6. Computer lab

Locations and Office Hours

MossRehab
1200 West Tabor Road, Philadelphia, PA 19141

MossRehab
60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027