DENTON (UNT), Texas – The University of North Texas Speech and Hearing Center, located at 907 W. Sycamore St. in Denton, is offering free speech and hearing screenings as part of Better Hearing and Speech Month.

Hearing screenings will be offered from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 1. Additionally, speech and language screenings will be available from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 “Hearing tests will determine the presence or absence of hearing loss and the need for amplification,” said Cassie Thomas, senior lecturer in the College of Health and Public ServiceDepartment of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology and clinical director of audiology. “If needed, hearing amplification can help people improve relationships with friends and family and can lead to overall better health and quality of life.”

For clinical staff, the goal is to help tackle a challenge many in the U.S. face. 

 “About one out of every six Americans suffer from some form of speech, language or hearing problem,” said Theresa Kouri, senior lecturer and clinical director of speech-language pathology. “These problems can be something that we are born with, or something that just happens as we develop. Some people suffer from communication impairments due to accidents, health problems or lifestyle choices they have made. This is a perfect opportunity to have you or your loved one’s speech, language or hearing screened if you have any questions or concerns.”

Neale Chumbler, dean of the College of Health and Public Service encourages residents to take part in these free clinics.

“HPS is not only student-centered, but we feel that service to our community is part of who we are as a college,” Chumbler said. “These free speech and hearing tests are just one way we can help give back to Denton and they are an opportunity to make an impact on the lives of so many.”   

Walk-ins for screenings are welcome, but appointments can be made by calling 940-565-2278.