TheraSIP was developed by Kathleen Smead, a speech pathologist who specializes in the treatment of swallowing disorders in Pensacola, Florida.  The tools were developed  specifically for adults with dysphagia as a means of increasing swallowing exercise as part of traditional swallowing treatments including tongue exercises, compensatory strategies, swallowing maneuvers, as well as respiratory and voice drills. Having worked in area of swallowing rehabilitation for over 35 years, Ms Smead developed TheraSIP from her clinical experience combined with the most current research supported principles.