Functional Neurological Disorder? Here is how we can help.

If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), or you suspect you might have it, you may be feeling overwhelmed. FND can be a confusing and challenging condition to navigate. Symptoms can vary in intensity and change day to day, often making it difficult to assess. Additionally, there are few assessment measures sensitive enough to detect FND fluctuations in speech pathology. This requires sound clinical judgment and reasoning. Working with a clinician well-versed in neurological conditions is paramount to starting therapy that targets your direct goals and concerns, rather than getting caught in a continuous assessment or misdiagnosis loop. 

What Is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)? 

FND is a condition where the nervous system isn't functioning as it should, despite no structural damage to the brain or nerves. It can cause a range of symptoms, including: 

• Difficulty with speaking (dysphonia or stuttering-like speech). 

• Problems finding words or forming sentences. 

• Issues with swallowing (dysphagia) or excessive saliva. 

• Facial weakness or difficulty coordinating movements used in speech. 

FND symptoms are real and can have a significant impact on your daily life. They are linked to how the brain processes signals and often fluctuate in intensity. Stress, fatigue, or overwhelming emotions can worsen symptoms, which is why a holistic approach to care is so important. 

How Speech Pathology Can Help Most people with functional disorders experience improvements in areas such as communication, swallowing, speech, and cough with targeted treatment. Speech pathology focuses on symptomatic and behavioral work delivered in an encouraging and gentle format, often as part of a multidisciplinary approach. In some cases, intensive sessions (e.g., several times a week) may be beneficial in regaining voluntary control over movement. 

Speech pathologists specializing in neurological conditions focus on addressing a range of challenges, including: 

• Communication difficulties: Voice changes, language or word-finding issues, stuttering, and changes in how your speech sounds. 

• Swallowing and saliva control: Managing difficulties related to eating, drinking, or saliva production. 

• Upper airway and cough issues: Addressing hypersensitivity or changes in how the nervous system responds to stimuli in the body. 

  
  

Speech pathologists can help by: 

• Assessing anatomy and physiology related to communication and swallowing. 

• Evaluating natural function and how it interacts with your goals, life roles, and functional scales. 

• Distinguishing between voluntary and involuntary control of movement. 

• Observing changes in behaviors based on environment, posture, or sensory input. 

• Assessing both motor and sensory tasks. 

• Conducting positive and negative practice to explore symptom patterns. 

• Introducing strategies to reduce symptoms and improve daily function. 

  
  

Our approach is collaborative and caring, designed to empower you and reduce the impact FND has on your life. We work holistically to ensure treatment aligns with your personal goals and values, helping you regain control and confidence. 

You’re Not Alone 

Navigating FND can feel isolating, but remember—you’re not alone. The FND community, along with professionals like speech pathologists, are here to support you every step of the way. 

If you’re experiencing communication or swallowing difficulties due to FND, we’d love to help. Together, we can work toward a brighter, more confident future. 

Resources for More Support 

• FND Australia Fact Sheet 

• Neurological Symptoms Resource 

If this resonates with you, we would be more than happy to assist you at SPIN Clinic.