Are you an agent of change? Looking to create real, life-long change in your work and in yourself? Ready to turn your visions into reality? Looking to work smarter, not harder—and have lots of fun along the way? Every Thursday, join international author, researcher, and speaker Kelly Vess to put only the best research to work. Kelly covers effective, practical strategies for children AND therapists to thrive. You are a miracle. Your time here is short. Let’s make the most of it. Follow Kelly ...
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Speech And Language Impairments Podcasts
A speech and language podcast to motivate and inspire school-based SLPs. Get the tips, strategies, and low-prep therapy ideas you need to confidently walk into your therapy room and plan with ease. Learn and hear stories from an SLP in the trenches just like you!
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Stories and strategies from people in the field of Augmentative and Alternative Communication who use the Minspeak symbol-based system of language encoding. Talk to me via [email protected]
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Brain Friends the podcast is a space for neuro nerds and stroke survivors to talk about all things aphasia, language recovery, and community. Hosted by Dr. D. Seles, a neuroscientist and speech-language pathologist, and Angie C., 2x stroke survivor and aphasia advocate. Listen, laugh, and learn with these two stakeholders determined to make a difference in aphasia advocacy.
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Join the School Psych Finds community in learning more about the field of School Psychology, including helpful resources & tips. We’ll be covering topics in fields such as psychology, mental health, human development, parenting, and education. The host of School Psych Finds, Sophia, is a school psychologist, mother, and a previous labor & postpartum doula. The School Psych Finds community originally started on Instagram and is still going strong. Find us there or on TikTok for more! Feel fre ...
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Hallie and Desi Peña of Panorama Speech chat about multilingualism: how to approach multilingual evaluations and therapy strategies. In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Desi Peña, a Spanish-bilingual speech-language pathologist, about the real-world challenges of evaluating and supporting multilingual learners. From gathering pare…
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4 Strategies to Build Decontextualized Language for Stronger Conversation Skills
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24:28If you work with preschool or early elementary students, this episode is a must-listen. We’re diving into decontextualized language—a skill that’s rarely discussed but critical for literacy and academic success. Decontextualized language is when children talk about things outside the here and now—past events, future plans, ideas, feelings, and abst…
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Hallie chat with Amanda Pluchino from Tablespoon Talk Speech and Feeding Therapy about who is feeding therapy for, how to get started, and how to feel confident. In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with feeding therapist and mentor Amanda Pluchino about the world of pediatric feeding therapy—something many SLPs didn’t get enough of in …
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190. How to Use Digital Tools to Actually Boost Language and Literacy in Preschoolers
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16:44Are you ready to go digital the right way in your therapy sessions? Today, we’re diving into the latest systematic review research on using digital tools to improve preschoolers’ language and literacy outcomes. The evidence is clear: digital media can be a powerful tool — when it’s used intentionally. In this episode, you’ll discover five key strat…
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Apraxia and Teletherapy - Yes it is possible!
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26:09Hallie chats with Nanette Cote about apraxia teletherapy and caregiver education Ready to rethink everything you know about teletherapy? 🎯 Join Hallie as she chats with Nanette Cote, M.S., CCC-SLP—a licensed speech-language pathologist with over 30 years of experience specializing in Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). Fresh from presenting at the 2…
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189. AAC for Social Communication: Research, Reality, and Monday Morning Solutions
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29:45If you work with minimally speaking children using low-tech or high-tech AAC, this episode is for you. A brand-new systematic review just dropped — but the published research is sparse, messy, and often mislabeled. Today, we’ll dig through the “recycle bin” of studies to uncover what actually works, why commenting is more powerful than requesting, …
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Hallie chats with Angelina Loia about vocational initiatives for students with special needs and complex needs and the use of AAC in collaborative platforms. This week on the pod, we’re joined by Angelina Loia, MA, CCC-SLP, TSSLD — a NYC-based SLP with 20+ years of experience in District 75! 🌟 From AAC to behavior support, Angelina shares how she h…
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188. Does Telepractice for Speech Sound Disorders Work?
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19:11Is telepractice just as effective as in-person therapy for treating speech sound disorders? In this episode, we take a realistic, research-driven look at what the evidence really says about speech telepractice—and what factors determine whether it works. You’ll discover: The exact client profiles that are NOT a good fit for telepractice. The active…
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How to Manage a Large Caseload Without Working Nights
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19:18We have all been there and it feels impossible. Hallie talks about how to manage a large caseload. This week on SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie is diving into a topic that every school-based SLP with a mile-long caseload needs—how to manage it all without burning the midnight oil. ☕📚 If you’ve ever lugged a backpack full of IEPs home (only to ignore it out…
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187. The 3 Biggest Goal-Writing Mistakes (and How to Fix Them for Massive Speech Gains)
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29:52Are your speech therapy goals actually creating change or just filling space on an IEP? In this episode, I share the three biggest mistakes I made in writing goals (and what to do instead). You’ll learn how to: Write measurable annual goals that track real growth. Use complex clusters and the complexity approach to accelerate progress. Show parents…
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Three C's of a Successful Clinical Fellowship
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28:44Hallie talks with The CF SLP Elizabeth Pozen about how to have a successful clinical fellowship. In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with CF superstar Elizabeth Pozen about the real-life ups and downs of that first year out of grad school. From navigating interviews and finding the right mentor, to building rapport with students and ge…
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186. Speech Sound Disorder Goals Made Easy: Try This 3-Step Goal Writing Framework
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19:05If you work with children with speech sound disorders, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down my simple 3-step method for writing speech goals that not only improve clarity but also empower parents and the entire intervention team to stay on the same page. You’ll learn how to: Use your single word standardized speech tests to track progress wit…
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Hallie & fellow SLP Kimberly Kean discuss the importance of self-care for SLPs This week on SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with the inspiring Kim from Speech Dreamers to talk all things SELF-CARE. 🧘♀️✨ From setting healthy boundaries to resisting the urge to be the “yes” person at work, this episode is your permission slip to start choosing YOU…
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147. Why Isn't 'Mama' the 1st Word for Many with Autism?
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16:28Why isn't 'Mama' a first word for many children with Autism, yet it is for their neurotypical peers? There are four underlying physiological causes for this difference. Let's dive in to explore these four reasons why 'Mama' is not just naturally developing and what we need to do differently to encourage the development of this pivotally important w…
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185. Evidence-Based Assessment & Language Intervention Strategies for Children from Economically Diverse Backgrounds
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28:01How can speech-language pathologists determine whether a child’s communication challenges are due to a language difference or a language disorder—and then choose the most impactful language intervention strategies? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Celeste Roseberry-McKibbin, one of the leading experts in culturally, linguistically, and economical…
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60. Why Verbal Cues Hold Children Back in Speech Therapy (and What to Do Instead)
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20:29Verbal cues may feel like the least intrusive form of prompting in speech therapy—but research and practice show they are actually the most restrictive. In this episode, I share three powerful reasons why verbal cues hold children back and why you need to fade them quickly: ✅ How verbal cues undermine self-efficacy and independence ✅ Why verbal cue…
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In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie’s keeping it real with a heart-to-heart just for you—no therapy hacks, no guest experts, just a reminder that what you do matters. If you’ve ever felt like a goldfish in a foggy little bag, overwhelmed by paperwork and wondering if anyone even notices, this one’s for you. Hallie’s sharing what she wishes s…
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184. Gestalt Language Processing Intervention: What’s Evidence-Based—and What Isn’t? Part 2
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31:06Are you using the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework in your autism intervention? This episode of The Preschool SLP pulls back the curtain on Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and challenges you to think critically about what’s truly supported by research—and what isn't. SLPs are increasingly encouraged to adopt GLP-informed interventions…
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135. Gestalt Language Processing? Do THIS to Improve Outcomes
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24:25This week, Kelly shares a powerful, research-driven strategy that she developed—almost by accident—that has become a game-changer in her therapy room and for countless SIS members. 🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why traditional “plus one” language modeling often isn’t enough—and how to break free from the chisel-and-hammer approach. The story beh…
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Narrative Language Sampling - What is it and how can I use it?
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25:53In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Jacquilyn Arias—pediatric SLP and co-founder of Habla Cadabra SLP—about how narrative language sampling (NLS) can make your assessments faster, more meaningful, and way more aligned with real classroom demands. Jacquilyn breaks down why NLS is a must-have tool for busy school SLPs, how it works …
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183. Assessing Language from a Gestalt Language Development Paradigm: What Works, What Doesn’t, and What to Do Monday Morning
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15:51Are you using the Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) approach in your language assessments—or wondering if you should? In this episode of The Preschool SLP Podcast, we cut through the noise to break down what’s evidence-based, what’s not, and how to make informed, practical decisions starting Monday morning. Whether you're a speech-language patholog…
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Tips for Working with Students with Visual Impairments
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32:46In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with Kassy Maloney—Orientation and Mobility Specialist and founder of the Society of Exceptional Educators—to talk about what SLPs really need to know when working with students who have visual impairments. Kassy shares practical, real-world tips for adapting your lessons (even if you don’t have …
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182. AAC + Gestalt Language Processing: What SLPs Need to Know
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25:26We're combining two of the most highly requested topics—Gestalt Language Processing and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)—into one conversation with Farwa Husain of First Phrases. We're answering some key questions about AAC + Gestalt: What do we actually know about integrating gestalts with high-tech AAC systems? What’s missing in t…
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In this practical episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Dr. Danika Pfeiffer—preschool SLP, assistant professor, and early literacy researcher—about how we can support early writing in young kids, especially those with developmental language disorder (DLD). From understanding why name writing is more about memory than letters, to how SLPs ca…
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181. Thinking About SLP Contracting? Here’s What You Need to Know First to Prevent Burnout
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38:37Is the way you’re working… actually working? In this candid and empowering episode of The Preschool SLP, I sit down with the SLP Happy Hour host, Sarah Lockhart, to talk about what no one tells you in grad school: the path to sustainability as an SLP is rarely linear. Together, we unpack what it really takes to thrive in this field—from navigating …
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Why Bilingual SLPs Need Specialized Support (And How to Find It)
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26:28What happens when one bilingual SLP decides she’s tired of feeling alone? She builds a whole movement! In this feel-good episode, Hallie sits down with Sara Gonzalez—a certified Spanish-English SLP in New York and the powerhouse behind the B.E.A.M. SLP Program aka Bilingual Empowerment through Allied Mentorship 💥 Sara shares her journey from grad s…
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Let's Talk Behavior: Two Game-Changing Tools to Set the Stage for Success
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27:49If you work with or have a child with communication impairments, today's episode, dedicated to improving behavior, is a 'must-listen'. I’m pulling back the curtain and giving you access to two powerful tools straight from my SIS Membership that are helping SLPs across the country transform their therapy sessions—without burning out. Heat up your la…
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Preparing Students for Life After High School: The Critical Role of SLPs in Transition Planning
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40:26Hallie and guest Nathalie Lebrun chat about preparing students for life after high school. In this honest and energizing episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Nathalie Lebrun—SLP, speaker, co-host of LeadSpeak Podcast and the voice behind LifeSpeak—about working with transition-age students. Nathalie shares how she went from post-acute reha…
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179. 5 Healthy Hacks for a Full Summer Recovery
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18:33Take your recovery as seriously as the work. In this episode, I share my five current favorite health hacks for achieving optimal health and well-being, both mentally and physically. P.S. Prevent burnout by becoming a SIS member and receiving educationally rich, ready-for-use materials in your inbox weekly. Don't delay and join the SIS Membership t…
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New SLP? Tips from a Grad Student Turned CF on Job Applications, Confidence, and What to Expect
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25:54Hallie chats with Anoli Mehta about her Clinical Fellowship journey. In this real and refreshing episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Anoli Mehta—a brand-new grad turned CF and the face behind @itsnotjustspeech. Anoli shares what it was like coming into the field from a non-CSD background, how she found a CF that blends early intervention …
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178. Use the "Look at" Sentence Strip to Develop Autistic Speech
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17:54Over 20 years ago, I moved from the "I want" sentence strip to the "Look at" one in working with children with Autism. Why? This episode explores the advantages of using a "Look at" sentence strip over an "I want" sentence strip to optimize gains in the development of communication skills in children with autism in both the short and long term. Rea…
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Hallie chats with Alice Williams about SLPAs In this uplifting and insightful episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with the inspiring Alice Williams—an SLPA, entrepreneur, and trailblazer for support personnel in the field of speech therapy. From discovering the profession while working retail to founding The SLPA Network, Alice shares her …
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177. Separation Anxiety: Four Steps to Success
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21:27We're diving into one of the most common and heart-wrenching challenges faced by parents, educators, and therapists—separation anxiety. Leave this episode with a simple, yet effective, four-step process to ease anxiety and build relationships with confidence and compassion. Make sure to set yourself up for success by understanding a child’s tempera…
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What New SLPs Should Do Before Their CF Year: Avoid My Biggest Mistake with Therapy Materials
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18:49Hallie chats about one of the BIG mistakes she made during her CF Year that cost her money and sanity. In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie’s getting real about a common mistake she made during her CF year—one that cost her time, money, and way too much trunk space! If you’re heading into your CF, just landed your first job, or even changing …
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Challenging Behaviors Related to Anxiety? Take These Six Actionable Steps to Make a Difference
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29:25Are you working with anxious children who are exhibiting challenging behavior? What can you do to help? Check out this episode for six actionable steps you can take right now to make a difference. Don't delay and join the SIS Membership today at kellyvess.com/sis to receive educationally rich activities weekly that treat the whole child and empower…
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Considering Teletherapy? How to Make Teletherapy Work
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31:56Hallie chats with Ellie Richter about teletherapy and how to make it work for you What do you get when you mix a surprise preemie, a fearless career pivot, and a whole lot of neon stickers? You get Ellie Richter, the powerhouse SLP behind The Essential Teletherapist—and she’s here to spill all the virtual tea. In this feel-good (and laugh-out-loud …
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175. Let's Play! How to Modify Your Activities for Every Child on Your Caseload
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25:54This week, we are diving into play. We will discuss the importance of transitioning from sensory to symbolic play levels. Ready to take action and engage in educationally rich play activities during your sessions? Don't delay and join the SIS membership today at kellyvess.com/sisBy Kelly Vess, MA, CCC-SLP
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Executive Function in Action: Coaching Teens Beyond the IEP
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40:00Hallie and Dr. Jessica Walker discuss executive function In this insightful and empowering episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with the brilliant Dr. Jessica Walker—an SLP with a PhD, a brain injury researcher turned school-based clinician, and a fierce advocate for adolescent support. From her unique path through higher education to the h…
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174. Sensory Processing Disorder: What to Do?
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22:02Researchers estimate that a majority of children with developmental delays have Sensory Processing Disorder. What to do? Let's dive in! Raevsky, M., Nabalta, C. A., & Atiles, J. T. (2025). Managing sensory processing disorders in an early childhood classroom: Evidence-based strategies for teachers. Early Childhood Education Journal. https://doi.org…
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From Jordan River Baptism to Emergency Evacuation: Dr Seles's Unexpected Journey
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33:34Send us a text Dr. Seles shares her harrowing experience of being in Israel when war broke out in October, capturing both the fear of the situation and the remarkable perspective it gave her on American privilege. • Dr. Seles traveled to Israel with a church group of 60 people including her mother • She was baptized in the Jordan River by her child…
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Hallie chats with MaKayla Elrod about her CF experience and answers questions every CF is asking! In this inspiring episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with MaKayla Elrod, a passionate pediatric SLP who shares her powerful journey from Tennessee to Miami—and from being told she'd never make it, to thriving in early intervention and private…
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173. Is Intervention that Reduces Echolalia Bad Practice?
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19:41We're diving into the latest scoping review of the impact of intervention focused on reducing echolalia for children with Autism. A question we must ask: Is echolalia something to embrace or extinguish to optimize outcomes? Learn how to improve outcomes by capitalizing on echolalia using the SIS Membership activities and treatment targets. Join at …
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Top 10 Questions CFs Ask (Answered!) – Your First Year in the Schools Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming
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27:29Hallie answers the biggest questions CFs have about the first year. Hey hey, SLP fam! Whether you're stepping into your CF year or just landed your first gig in the schools, this episode of SLP Coffee Talk is your new best friend. Hallie’s got your back with the top 10 questions every new SLP secretly wants to ask—from “What should I even do on my …
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172. Do THIS If You Work with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)
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21:14Are you frustrated by a lack of progress in treating children with Developmental Language Disorder? It could be your treatment target. Perhaps, you are aiming too low. Learn my favorite 'go-to' target to create optimal change in language and literacy skills, and the six-step process that builds agency and automaticity for the child. Only action can…
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End of Year Ideas For Older Speech Students
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16:49Hallie shares ideas or end of the year activities for older speech students. In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie’s dishing out easy, breezy end-of-year activities that are big on fun and light on prep! If you’re counting down the days to summer (but still want to sneak in some speech and language goals), you’re in the right place. From refle…
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171. Is a Preschooler with Speech Sound Disorders Really at Risk for Language and Literacy Delays? Yes!
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33:50Does having a speech sound disorder put a preschooler at risk for persistent language and literacy delays? The latest research research includes 290 effect sizes that compare children with speech sound disorders to their neurotypical peers. It indicates that the risk for children with speech sound disorders is greater for both language and literacy…
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Children’s Language & Literacy Using Children’s Books
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36:44Hallie chats with Julie Barber-Bristol about using children's books to target language and literacy. In this fun and heartwarming episode of SLP Coffee Talk, we’re hanging out with the fabulous Julie L. Barber-Bristol, M.S., CCC-SLP—a children’s literature-loving SLP with 20+ years of experience and a passion for making speech therapy magical. From…
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170. Ask These Five Questions When Selecting Treatment Targets
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15:54Your gains in treating speech sound disorders will largely be based on your treatment targets. How to select powerful targets? This episode will empower you with five questions to ask to determine if your speech treatment targets are as optimal as they can be to create change. Ready to put these empirically-based targets into practice? Don't delay …
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Making Word Segmentation Work for Older Students
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14:06Hallie discusses teaching vocabulary and how to make word segmentation work for older students. In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie tackles the often-overlooked skill of word segmentation. She discusses the challenges of teaching segmentation to older students and provides five no-prep, age-appropriate activities that connect to their intere…
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169. How "R" Can Make Speech Therapy Much Easier
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33:16SLPs often equate "R" with 'hard work'. However, "R" is your best friend in making someone of the trickiest sounds easy. In this episode, learn how to use "R" to make the most complex treatment targets easy. Hint: Get out your blender. Ready to join me in putting innovative, empirically-based strategies to work on Monday morning? Don't delay and jo…
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