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| Wearing Two Hats: The Behavioral Speech Pathologist |
| Friday, May 28, 2010 |
| 10:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| Presidio A (Grand Hyatt) |
| Area: VBC/DDA; Domain: Applied Behavior Analysis |
| CE Instructor: Christopher Perrin, M.Ed. |
| BARBARA E. ESCH (Esch Behavior Consultants, Inc.), TRACIE L. LINDBLAD (Four Points), JAMIE M. SEVERTSON (Trinity Services, Inc.) |
| Description: The field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) provides overlapping interests with speech pathology. One of the primary goals of ABA is to improve socially important behaviors using techniques established in the principles of behavior. One common area of practice for speech and language pathologists and behavior analysts is the treatment of communication deficits across diverse populations. In fact, Skinner’s (1957) theories of verbal behavior (VB) have become increasingly popular among practicing speech pathologists, especially as collaboration with behavior analysts becomes more common. However, there is some debate among speech pathologists regarding the theoretical underpinnings and practices that define a truly behavioral approach to speech and language. The purpose of this workshop is to provide a clear understanding of behavior-oriented, evidenced-based speech pathology. We will discuss the roles of speech pathologists and what it means to have a “behavioral orientation.” We will also define evidenced-based practice, and teach audience members to critically evaluate the scientific research that is available for commonly used speech pathology techniques so that practitioners can make educated treatment decisions. Finally, we will discuss strategies to promote effective communication and collaboration among behavior analysts and speech pathologists. |
| Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will be able to do the following:
1. differentiate between behavior-oriented and traditional speech pathology;
2. understand the expectations of a behavior-oriented speech pathologist;
3. define and explain the importance of utilizing evidenced-based practices;
4. use information provided to critically analyze scientific literature to guide clinical practice;
5. discuss ethical considerations when assessing and treating clients;
6. describe a behavioral approach to teaching communication skills;
7. identify methods of conducting appropriate assessments;
8. outline treatment objectives based on assessment results;
9. understand and use behavioral and speech pathology terminology. |
| Activities: This workshop will include didactic instruction, interactive discussion, and a review various evidenced-based assessment and treatment techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to practice their skills by reviewing client scenarios to determine the proper assessment course, reviewing mock-assessment results to determine a proper course of treatment, and role-playing with other participants. They will also practice “translating” speech pathology terminology into behavioral terms and vice versa. |
| Audience: This workshop is intended to meet the needs of speech pathologists who are interested in transitioning to a behavioral approach. Also, this workshop will improve the current practices of behavior-oriented speech pathologists by teaching them more about evidence-based treatments as well as the theory behind behavioral science. This workshop is also geared towards behavior analysts who collaborate with and/or train behavior-oriented speech pathologists, as well as graduate students in both fields who are interested in learning more about evidence-based practices and a behavioral approach to treating communication deficits. |
| Content Area: Practice |
| Instruction Level: Basic |