Free Voice Therapy for New Jersey Residents with Parkinson’s Disease; Stockton University Receives Grant to Expand Care

Thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Parkinson Voice Project (PVP), Stockton University will soon offer free SPEAK OUT! voice therapy to individuals in New Jersey who are living with Parkinson’s disease. The program will be available both in person at Stockton’s speech and hearing clinic and online. What Is the SPEAK OUT! Program? SPEAK OUT! is a research-based therapy program designed to support people with Parkinson’s in strengthening their voice and swallowing abilities. The program helps address symptoms such as reduced speech volume, unclear articulation, and swallowing challenges, which are often linked to the progression of the disease. Developed by the Parkinson Voice Project, the program encourages intentional use of the muscles involved in speaking and swallowing. By focusing attention on these actions, participants may build new pathways in the brain that help bypass areas affected by Parkinson’s. Ongoing Support, Not One-Time Treatment The program includes one-on-one therapy sessions, group sessions, daily home practice with video guidance, and educational materials. Participants are never left to manage alone—support and community are core parts of the program. “This isn’t a program where you come for a few sessions and then it ends,” said Michelle Swartz, PhD, an assistant professor at Stockton. “Participants receive ongoing support as long as they want it.” Led by Compassionate Clinicians and Educators The program will be led by Kelly Maslanik, a clinical specialist in communication sciences and disorders, and Michelle Swartz. Both are committed to creating a welcoming, empowering space for individuals with Parkinson’s and their families. “We want to make this a warm and wonderful place—not only for the people we serve, but also for our students and the wider community,” Maslanik shared. Designed with Accessibility in Mind Stockton was selected for this grant because of its ability to serve both urban and rural communities, and its capacity to offer services in both English and Spanish. PVP also recognized Stockton’s interest in conducting long-term research on how the program impacts not only speech and swallowing, but also participants’ overall social and emotional well-being. Training the Next Generation of Providers The five-year grant will also support the training of Stockton’s speech-language pathology students and faculty. This provides a valuable opportunity for future clinicians to learn how to support people living with Parkinson’s in meaningful and evidence-based ways. Looking Ahead The team hopes to begin offering therapy services by summer. Brent Arnold, PhD, dean of Stockton’s School of Health Sciences, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “This is an exciting opportunity that strengthens our commitment to serving the people of New Jersey and preparing students for impactful careers.”