Convention Schedule & Session Information

Friday, June 7, 2024

Presentation Titles, Abstracts, and Learner Objectives

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs: Take Your Step

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th from 8:30-10:00 am

Speaker(s)

Dr. Ianessa Humbert

Abstract

Two of the most important aspects of human evolution include our communication and feeding practices, which far exceed what is possible in any other single species. These are arguably the most interesting parts of being human. What do humans love?

 

Conversations, Comedy and Laughter

Music and Singing

Food and Drink

 

The profession of Speech-Language Pathology has the opportunity to revolutionize habilitation and rehabilitation of these highly valued human functions. However, we have struggled to elevate the profession in financial, political, and humanitarian realms. Some of this is due to policies and practices, but other parts are due to self-limiting beliefs that impact individual decision-making among SLP. In this session, Dr. Humbert will delve into past decisions and dispositions that are responsible for our current condition, and then offer actions that could positively alter the trajectory of individual Speech-Language Pathologists (and soon-to-be SLP), as well as the profession as a whole.

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to list 2 historical decisions that impact our current professional practice
2. Participants will be able to describe current policies that hinder large-scale professional growth and member morale
3. Participants will be able to list 3 personal actions that can elevate the profession, given the importance and value of our services

Speaker Bio

Dr. Ianessa Humbert is an accomplished scientist, professor, and highly sought-after speaker with expertise in swallowing and swallowing disorders. Dr. Humbert is a world-renowned “Swallowologist” and the CEO of the Swallowing Wellness Center (swallowingwellness.com) and the Swallowing Training and Education Portal (STEP - stepcommunity.com).

Financial Disclosures

• Receives salary from Swallowing Wellness and Swallowing Training Education Portal
• Intellectual property rights and ownership 
• Received honorarium for this presentation from LSHA

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures. 

Title

Infant Feeding, Oral Development and The Body Connection

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th from 10:15-11:15 am

Speaker(s)

Mallory Roberts, M.S., CCC-SLP, CST

Abstract

In this discussion, infant feeding dynamics will be described in relationship to oral development and the body. Topics including head preferences, oral dysfunctions, gut disturbances and common feeding difficulties with be discussed. We will look deeper into the most common, current recommendations and how they don't appreciate the body holistically. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will describe three components of oral anatomy and the connections throughout the body.
2. Participants will list the bottle types and which function/dysfunction they support.
3. Participants will demonstrate two ways of how positioning in feeds impact oral development.
4. Participants will explain one difference between forced and responsive pacing during feeding.
5. Participants will describe two pros and cons of the most common recommendations given to parents for feeding difficulties.

Speaker Bio

Mallory Roberts is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with the state of Louisiana and certified through the ASHA organization. She has supporting credentials through various continuous education coursework including: reflux specialist, infant craniosacral therapist and infant massage educator. She is the owner and sole provider of, The Feeding Mom, LLC.

Financial Disclosures

• Receives a salary and has ownership of The Feeding Mom, LLC
• Received discounted registration as an invited speaker

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures. 

Title 

Caring for Dementia: Best Practices for Caregivers and SLPs

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 2:45-3:45pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Jennifer Whited, Ph.D., CCC-SLP

Abstract

The purpose of this presentation is to prepare SLPs to support caregivers of individuals with dementia and to create functional, evidence based care plans. This presentation will discuss environmental modifications, communication modifications as well as assessment and treatment strategies for SLPs. Attendees will be provided case examples, assessment ideas, example goals, treatment strategies and caregiver training tips to facilitate the SLPs role in medical settings as they serve individuals with dementia. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to train caregivers more competently in support of individuals living with dementia
2. Participants will be able to implement functional assessment of individuals with dementia. 
3. Participants will be able to implement functional treatment plans to promote safety and higher quality of life for individuals with dementia. 

Speaker Bio

Jennifer Whited, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an associate professor in the Speech-Language Pathology Program and the Director of the School of Allied Health at the University of Louisiana Monroe. She supervises students during clinical work in regional memory care units and promotes dementia care best practices in Allied Health programs through grant development and interdisciplinary education experiences. 

Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration to this conference. 
• The work presented in the presentation is grant-funded.

Non-Financial Disclosures

• There are no relevant non-financial disclosures to report.

Title 

Life is Roger On

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 10:15-11:15am

Speaker(s)

Dr. Rachel Lamb

Special Topic

Audiology

Abstract

Roger On is the newest addition to the Roger technology family. Roger On provides solutions for hearing in noise and at distances. At its core, Roger On combines the best of legacy technology and introduces Multibeam 2.0 technology for table use and point technology for interview style usage. We will also introduce the myRoger app, discuss best practices for demonstrating Roger as well as opportunities for Roger funding.

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to list the features of the Roger On & myRoger app.
2. Participants will be able to identify individuals who can benefit from Roger technology as well as choose what Roger technology is best for that patient.
3. Participants will be able to identify opportunities for Roger funding.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Rachel Lamb is a clinical trainer for the South Central region. She joined Phonak in 2023. Rachel earned her Doctor of Audiology degree in 2016 from the University of Florida and her Master of Arts in Communication Disorders in 1995 from the University of Memphis. Prior to working as a clinical trainer for Phonak, her clinical experience included diagnostics for pediatrics through geriatrics, hearing aid and FM fittings and verification, as well as, vestibular and electrophysiologic testing in ENT and hospital-based settings. Additionally, she has taught and supervised AuD students.

Financial Disclosures

• Employed by Phonak and receives additional compensation
• Received discounted registration

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures. 

Title 

Early Intervention: Collaboration and Consultation for Improved Outcomes

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 11:30am-12:30pm

Speaker(s)

Jennifer Henry, M.S., CCC-SLP

Abstract

Therapeutic intervention is an integral component in fostering optimal development in children with developmental disabilities. Attendance of this seminar will provide clinicians with tools for professional collaboration and counseling of families to make the most of their child’s early intervention services. Clinicians will develop strategies to providing clients and their families with a robust model of and multi-disciplinary intervention, as well as, professional consultation and hands-on education to achieve maximal outcomes. Through consideration of familial and socio-economic variables therapists will develop caregiver skills through education to increase consistent carry-over in the client’s natural environment while providing resources for outside referral as necessary. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to identify resources available through early intervention programs. 
2. Participants will be able to demonstrate an understanding of professional referral as needed in working with the early intervention population.
3. Participants will be able to demonstrate an understanding of familial, socio-economic and medical considerations when working with the early intervention population.

Speaker Bio

Jennifer Henry received her undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Louisiana at Monroe and a Masters of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Southeastern Louisiana University. She has practiced in the field fro nearly 20 years and has acquired experience from work in a multitude of settings. Jennifer is currently working in pediatric private practice with a focus in early intervention, pediatric feeding and patients with medically complex diagnosis.

Financial Disclosures

• Salary from Speech & Feeding Therapy
• Received discounted convention registration

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures. 

Title 

Swallow Physiology Masterclass

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 11:30am-12:30pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Ianessa Humbert

Abstract

Traditional Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) management of dysphagia was based on symptom management (reducing cough, aspiration, etc). In recent years, the profession has tried to transition toward restoring swallowing function with patient-centered practices. However, this has proven difficult, because SLP’s originally established themselves by sacrificing our patient and professional needs to conform to the healthcare system. This includes assessing and treating blindly with no imaging. Now we are at crossroads, trying to reconcile what the body needs to recover in the confines of the healthcare system. 

Learner Objectives

This seminar will cover the following learning objectives:

(1) understanding what the swallowing system requires for recovery; 

(2) advocating for changes to unwarranted, healthcare barriers; and 

(3) letting go of cookie-cutter, box-checking protocols that limit creativity in clinical decision-making and dysphagia recovery. 

Dr. Humbert will address these three areas in an interactive seminar that will be immediately relevant to attendees. 

Speaker Bio

Dr. Ianessa Humbert is an accomplished scientist, professor, and highly sought-after speaker with expertise in swallowing and swallowing disorders. Dr. Humbert is a world-renowned “Swallowologist” and the CEO of the Swallowing Wellness Center (swallowingwellness.com) and the Swallowing Training and Education Portal (STEP - stepcommunity.com).

Financial Disclosures

• Receives salary from Swallowing Wellness and Swallowing Training Education Portal
• Intellectual property rights and ownership 
• Received honorarium for this presentation from LSHA

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures. 

Title 

Navigating Clinical Trends in Supervision of Communication Disorders Students 

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 11:30am-12:30pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Erica Cardosi and Dr. Megan Majoue

Special Topic

Supervision

Abstract

Communication disorders clinical supervision plays a pivotal role in the education and professional development of future audiologists and speech-language pathologists. This presentation examines current trends in research related to clinical supervision. Through a review of literature, we hope to provide clarity on emerging trends in clinical supervision. While providing information regarding evolving landscape of clinical supervision methodologies, we include student feedback to highlight any gaps between student expectations and evidence-based practice. By analyzing the intersection between student priorities and the available research, we identify strategies for fostering collaboration and constructive supervisory environment. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to understand the current landscape of audiology clinical supervision research, including emerging trends and evidence-based practices, to inform effective supervisory approaches.
2. Participants will be able to develop skills in fostering a collaborative and constructive supervisory environment by integrating student priorities with evidence-based practice.
3. Participants will be able tor recognize challenges of supervisor versus student expectations and priorities.

Speaker 1 Bio

Dr. Erica Cardosi is an assistant professor in the Doctor of Audiology program at LSU-Health Sciences Center. She is currently completing her Ph.D. at LSU in Higher Education Administration. Her areas of clinical interest include tinnitus management and adult diagnostics.

Speaker 1 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration for the convention.

Speaker 1 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures. 

Speaker 2 Bio

Dr. Megan Majoué is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Communication Disorders at Louisiana State University Health Science Center New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO). She spent the first several years of her career at the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Health Care System in New Orleans where she served as the vestibular program coordinator. During that time she held Adjunct Faculty appointments at both Xavier University of Louisiana and LSUHSC-NO. Dr. Majoué’s areas of focus include vestibular assessment and rehabilitation, adult audiologic assessment, hearing technology, and tinnitus. At LSUHSC-NO, she supervises students in the faculty practice clinic and in the otology clinic at University Medical Center New Orleans. She is a Faculty Senator for LSUHSC-NO and President of the Faculty Assembly of the School of Allied Health Professions. Additionally, she leads the audiology training program for Pediatric Medical Residents at LSUHSC-NO. Her true interest lies in mentoring students, cultivating their growth in both classroom and clinical settings, and fostering their development in the field.

Speaker 2 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration for the convention.

Speaker 2 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no non-relevant financial disclosures.

Title 

Dialect Discovery Worksheets for AAE-Speaking Children

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 1:30-2:30pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Christy Moland

Special Topic

DEI

Abstract

AAE-speaking children express verb morphemes with three types of forms: dialect general overt, dialect specific overt, and phonetically silent zero forms. Nevertheless, by kindergarten children vary their use of these forms, and group differences can be observed between children with and without language impairments in AAE. Dialect discovery worksheets were created to help clinicians examine children’s use of their various form types and the contexts in which their forms are produced. In this talk, we will present data from AAE-speaking children with and without language impairments to demonstrate how dialect discovery worksheets can be used in assessment and treatment. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to describe the verb morphemes in typically developing children learning AAE. 
2. Participants will be able to describe differences in the use of three forms between AAE-speaking children with and
without DLD.
3. Participants will be able to complete a dialect discovery worksheet for verb morpheme forms.

Speaker Bio

Christy Wynn Moland, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, is the research project manager for an NIH-funded project examining childhood developmental language disorders within AAE and other dialects, awarded to the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Louisiana State University. She has publications in AJSLP, JSLHR, and LSHSS.

Financial Disclosures

• The speaker receives a salary as the project manager on a NIH grant (R01DC020434) awarded to the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Louisiana State University. 
• Received discounted convention registration.

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a member of ASHA’s SIG 1 and NBASLH.

Title 

COPD and Dysphagia: A Literature Review and Case for Making Dysphagia Screening Standard Practice

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 1:30-2:30pm

Speaker(s)

April Doughty, M.A., CCC-SLP

Abstract

This presentation will examine the relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and dysphagia and make a case for screening patients with COPD for dysphagia. It will discuss the prevalence of dysphagia among these patients, how mind-body-breath are connected, and the relationship between COPD and aspiration. The heart of the presentation will examine impacts on swallowing found in patients with COPD. Subtopics include what patients are saying about these impacts, increased oral and pharyngeal transit times, compensation for deficits, disrupted breath-swallow coordination, decreased oral and pharyngeal peristalsis, increased oral and pharyngeal residue, rapid fatigue during oral intake, decreased sensory awareness, impaired laryngeal elevation, and decreased awareness of deficits. The presentation will briefly discuss management of patients with COPD.

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to explain the mind-body-breath relationship (the feedback and feed forward loop) as it concerns oropharyngeal swallowing.
2. Participants will be able to list at least five specific impacts of COPD oropharyngeal swallowing function.
3. Participants will be able to name at least two practical steps to take in managing a patient with COPD and dysphagia.

Speaker Bio

April C. Doughty holds master's degrees in English and speech-language pathology. Since beginning her SLP career in 2020, she has worked primarily in SNFs and acute care, including as the first full-time SLP at Ochsner LSU Health's Monroe Medical Center where she was instrumental in building the SLP caseload, improving quality control for dysphagia diets, and educating MDs and staff on the role of SLPs in acute care. She is a 2022 ASHA ACE recipient.

Financial Disclosures

• The speaker was a paid full-time employee of Ochsner LSU Health’s Monroe Medical Center at the time this research was conducted. It was originally presented in similar form to hospital residents. 
• Received discounted registration to the convention.

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures

Title 

Identifying and Reporting Signs of Abuse as Part of Client Welfare and Ethical Practice 

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 1:30-2:30pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Christine Weill and Ashley Kidd, M.S., CCC-SLP

Special Topic

Ethics

Abstract

Anecdotally, professionals relate issues of suspected client abuse and neglect to standards laid out in our codes of ethics. However, our national certification and state licensing boards do not provide explicit guidance on issues of client welfare related to abuse and neglect by members of the community. These regulations exist in state laws that aim to increase the welfare of the population. Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are categorized as mandatory reporters as healthcare and education professionals. Connections between state law and state and national codes of ethics are essential to client welfare within the professions. The authors will review common signs of abuse, both physical and mental, and their experiences navigating reporting agencies in Louisiana. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will identify signs and symptoms of abuse as they manifest in a variety client populations. 
2. Participants will outline the common process associated with reporting abuse and/or neglect in a variety of client populations.
3. Participants will argue for reporting abuse and/or neglect in client populations as a component of ethical professional conduct. 

Speaker 1 Bio

Christine P. Weill, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an assistant professor at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has worked as a speech-language pathologist for over 26 years specializing in language and literacy development and autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Weill has published and presented nationally and internationally on the topics of autism spectrum disorders, language, literacy, and social interaction throughout the lifespan. Her specific research interests include authentic social interaction and communication, qualitative research methods, and aspects of neurodiversity. 

Speaker 1 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker receives financial support from UL Lafayette as a full-time faculty member. 
• Received discounted convention registration.

Speaker 1 Non-Financial Disclosures

• There are no relevant non-financial disclosures.

Speaker 2 Bio

Ashley Kidd, M.S., CCC-SLP, is the clinical director at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She has been an adult neuro focused SLP for 10 years. She volunteers on the LSHA board of directors as the University Relations chair and on the board of directors for the Aphasia Center of Acadiana as the VP of Communications. She is currently pursuing her PhD under the mentorship of Dr. Jamie Azios, PhD, CCC-SLP with a focus on qualitative research, socially oriented aphasia groups and mental health aspects in relation to aphasia. 

Speaker 2 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a full-time faculty member at the University of Louisiana Lafayette
• Received free convention registration as a LSHA Board Member. 

Speaker 2 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a LSHA Board Member, serving on the role of University Chairperson.

Title 

Avoidance or Adaptation? How a Child Diagnosed with Language Disorders Strategically Used Objects to Save Face

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 2:45-3:45pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Amanda Percle

Abstract

While clients exhibit behaviors often categorized as "avoidance behaviors", these can also be viewed through a lens of competence and strategy use. This study presents data from a much larger investigation to illustrate how one child diagnosed with language disorders strategically used objects to save face. While those around her oftentimes classified her behaviors as a means of "avoidance" during difficult tasks, this study aims to reframe these behaviors as compensatory adaptations - ways in which the client compensated to save face. Data from a singular therapy session are presented, but this study and it's findings come from a much larger investigation spanning the course of 10 years. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to explain the clinical importance of valuing clients' strategy use through a lens of competence.
2. Participants will be able to distinguish how Object Use functioned as a strategy for saving face. 
3. Participants will be able to generalize the presented concepts of behavior as strategy to broader implications on clinical interpretations of 'avoidance' behaviors.

Speaker Bio

Amanda B. Percle received her doctorate in Applied Language and Speech Sciences at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 2022. She previously worked as a Speech-Language Pathologist in the Louisiana public school system. Currently, she is the Clinical Operations and Outreach Coordinator for the Department of Communicative Disorders at UL. Her research interests include childhood language disorders, literacy, eye-tracking, and qualitative research methodologies.

Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration for the convention.

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures to report.

Title 

Medical Autonomy with a Communication Disorder: The Theory-Practice Gap 

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 2:45-3:45pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Rachel Fiore

Special Topic

Ethics

Abstract

Patient autonomy is one of the preeminent ethical considerations when it comes to bioethics in healthcare. As with any ethical ideal, however, there is a gap between the ideal scenario and what is really practiced. Unfortunately, when a patient has a communication disorder, that gap is widened further. This presentation will cover the existing bioethics literature concerning patient autonomy in healthcare and apply it to the field of speech-language pathology in the context of neurogenic communication disorders such as aphasia. The gap between what is ideal and what actually happens, known as the “theory-practice gap,” will be discussed using data collected from medical speech-language pathologists as they considered this dilemma together in a focus group format. Finally recommendations for narrowing the gap will be offered.

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to explain patient autonomy as an ethical standard in the healthcare setting.
2. Participants will be able to compare the reality of patient autonomy in the healthcare setting with the ethical ideal.
3. Participants will be able to reframe what patient autonomy looks like when the patient has a communication disorder.
4. Participants will be able to identify three practical recommendations for improving patient autonomy for people with communication disorders.

Speaker

Rachel Fiore is an Assistant Professor of Speech-Language Pathology at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Rachel has 10 years' experience evaluating and treating adult medical populations, especially people with neurogenic communication disorders. Her interests revolve around the social and ethical impact of aphasia-related communication deficits in healthcare.

Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration for the convention.

Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures.

Title 

Knowledge & Practice of Supervising Students, Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, and Clinical Fellows

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 2:45-3:45pm

Speaker(s)

Melissa Handy, M.S., CCC-SLP and Tara White, M.Ed., CCC-SLP

Special Topic

Supervision

Abstract

Supervising in speech-language pathology benefits the supervisor and supervisee in a number of ways, but as clinical educators, we also know that it adds to our responsibilities and tasks. This session will assist the supervising SLP’s knowledge of the process, current research, needs, and best practices to assist in making the work more realistic. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to discuss ASHA’s Knowledge & Skills required of individuals engaging in clinical trainings.
2. Participants will be able to identify the goals of clinical education and supervision.
3. Participants will be able to review summaries of research articles and books related to clinical supervision.
4. Participants will be able to examine handouts and recommendations to assist with the process of supervising and mentoring.

5. Participants will be able to review documents completed at the conclusion of the experiences (Grad/CF) or renewal period (SLP-A).

Speaker 1 Bio

Melissa Handy, MS, CCC-SLP is the Director of Clinical Education and Graduate SPTH Clinical Professor at Xavier University of Louisiana. She has practiced for over 20 years in Maryland, Texas, and Louisiana and is a graduate of Louisiana State University (UG – COMD Spring 2000) and Southeastern Louisiana University (Grad – COMD Spring 2003).

Speaker 1 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker receives salary from Xavier University as a clinical educator in the department of Speech Pathology.
• Received discounted convention registration.

Speaker 1 Non-Financial Disclosures

• There are no relevant non-financial disclosures.

Speaker 2 Bio

Tara Roy White, MEd, CCC-SLP is a Clinical Educator and Undergraduate SPTH Professor at Xavier University of Louisiana. She has practiced for 17 years in Louisiana and is a proud graduate of Southern University A & M College (UG-2002 in Speech Pathology & Audiology and Grad-2006 in Special Education and Speech-Language Pathology). ​

Speaker 2 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker receives salary from Xavier University as a clinical educator in the department of Speech Pathology.
• Received discounted convention registration.

Speaker 2 Non-Financial Disclosures

• There are no relevant non-financial disclosures.

Title 

Remembering the Forest: Scoping Review of Lived Experiences in Pediatric Communication Therapy

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 4:00-5:00pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Kelly Koch and Katherine Hays, M.S., CCC-SLP

Abstract

A growing body of qualitative research asks vital questions regarding the most fundamental aspects of pediatric case management. These studies seek to document the actual lived experience of children and families impacted by communicative disabilities - with the overarching goal of better informing clinical practitioners about the therapeutic effects of their work. By considering and learning from this line of research, clinicians can remember “to see the forest for the trees” and re-prioritize their clinical practice. This scoping review highlights advances in the literature which address the oft-overlooked perspectives of children and adults living with communicative and/or developmental disabilities. In doing so, this line of research urges clinicians to continually ask a foundational question: “Are we serving them well?”

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to describe identified themes across lived experiences of individuals with communicative disorders.
2. Participants will be able to use the experiences of individuals with communicative disorders to reframe and re-prioritize clinical practices.
3. Participants will be able to integrate themes identified into a person-centered model of care consistent with the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. 

Speaker 1 Bio

Kelly Koch, PhD, CCC-SLP, is an Assistant Professor at the University of Louisiana at Monroe in Speech and Language Pathology. She has worked in public schools, private, and university clinics. Her research interests are in the clinical relationship and the application of person-centered care.

Speaker 1 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration to this conference.

Speaker 1 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a LSHA member and on the LSHA committee planning committee.

Speaker 2 Bio

Katherine Hays, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a clinical supervisor and doctoral student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She has presented regionally and internationally on topics related to developmental speech and language disorders, neurodiversity-affirming services, literacy development, and AAC.

Speaker 2 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration for the convention.

Speaker 2 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker has no relevant non-financial disclosures to report.

Title 

Inviting Strengths into TBI Intervention

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 4:00-5:00pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Laura Arrington, Maria Mengis, M.S., and Mary McMahon, M.S., CCC-SLP

Abstract

As therapists, our own beliefs about intervention and disorder guide our practices. In this session, we will ask you to examine your own clinical perspective and consider why and how to build a practice inclusive of client strengths. Opportunities for defining and highlighting beneficial aspects of your approach to TBI intervention will be provided alongside invitations to reimagine less useful aspects. Discussion will center around including strengths-based perspective as a potentially useful tool in intervention and building a functional framework for TBI intervention.

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to describe how strengths-based perspective might benefit their practice
2. Participants will be able to identify beneficial aspects of their clinical approach to TBI intervention
3. Participants will be able to list three principles for functional TBI intervention

Speaker 1 Bio

Laura E. Arrington, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an Assistant Professor at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Her primary research interests include qualitative research methodologies, understanding clinical perspectives of speech-language pathologists, and use of strengths-based perspective in intervention. She has extensive clinical experience working with individuals with mild traumatic brain injury.

Speaker 1 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is employed by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette 
• Received discounted registration for this conference.

Speaker 1 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a member of LSHA and on the convention planning committee.

Speaker 2 Bio

Maria Mengis, M.S., is a doctoral student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Her

research interests include social justice, adult neurogenics, qualitative research

methodology, strengths-based perspective, and pedagogy.

Speaker 2 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration for the convention.

Speaker 2 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a Ph.D. student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Speaker 3 Bio

Mary McMahon, MS, CCC-SLP is a PhD student at UL Lafayette. Mary has worked as a clinician in outpatient clinics and residential therapy programs. Her main research interest is understanding the perspectives and lived experience of adults living with communication disabilities.

Speaker 3 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is employed by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. 
• Received discounted registration to the convention.

Speaker 3 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a Ph.D. student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

Title 

Caution Ahead: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Parents of Children Who Stutter 

Date and Time

Friday, June 7^th, 2024 from 4:00-5:00pm

Speaker(s)

Dr. Monica Johnson, Dr. Brittany Rutland, and Madison Ingrassia, B.A.

Special Topic

Ethics

Abstract

Ever get stumped by a parent’s question? Or maybe you are curious how other SLP’s handle the hard conversations? Join us for an interactive presentation on counseling, ethics, and talking to parents of children who stutter. The purpose of this presentation is to provide you with the space to discover your voice as an SLP by practicing guided discussions exploring ethical considerations in common clinical scenarios when providing services to children who stutter and their families. Our goal is to empower participants to foster healthy conversations surrounding all aspects of fluency disorders with parents of children who stutter i.e., diagnosis following an assessment, prognosis, treatment recommendations, referrals, etc. 

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will be able to state SLP’s role as communication counselors guided by ASHA’s scope of practice.
2. Participants will be able to list three interpersonal skills to guide interactions with parents of children who stutter. 
3. Participants will be able to integrate counseling principles and ethics to guide conversations with parents of children who stutter. 

Speaker 1 Bio

Monica Johnson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an assistant professor at Southeastern Louisiana University who focuses on empowerment through education by preparing students to work with and support PWS and their families/partners through the application of counseling and research principles to practice. Her research explores approaching difficult discussions, dating, intimacy, & partner support for PWS.

Speaker 1 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a salaried employee of Southeastern Louisiana University.
• Received discounted registration to the convention.

Speaker 1 Non-Financial Disclosures

• Member of LSHA
• Member of ASHA
• ASHA SIG 4 member
• On the Associate Research Committee for the National Stuttering Association.

Speaker 2 Bio

Brittany Falcon Rutland, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, is a part-time instructor at Louisiana State University. She is a person who stutters and is passionate about sharing the lived experience of stuttering and her clinical knowledge and experience working with children and adults who stutter with speech-language pathologists. Her research interests include stuttering and interprofessional practice, focusing on pediatricians’ referral practices. She has presented on stuttering at local, national, and international conferences.

Speaker 2 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a part-time instructor at Louisiana State University.
• Received discounted registration to the convention.

Speaker 2 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a member of ASHA
• ASHA SIG 4 member.

Speaker 3 Bio

Madison Ingrassia, B.A., is a second-year graduate student at Southeastern Louisiana University with an interest in working with adult neurologic populations and promoting support for parents, families, and partners of those we serve. She is currently working on exploring the role of research in practice and intraprofessional collaboration to enhance knowledge. 

Speaker 3 Financial Disclosures

• The speaker received discounted registration for the convention.

Speaker 3 Non-Financial Disclosures

• The speaker is a member of LSHA.