Most graduate school programs do not teach future speech therapists about the evaluation and treatment of apraxia of speech in the detail necessary to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Read below to learn what questions you can ask speech therapists to determine if they are the right fit for your child with apraxia of speech.
Questions to ask your speech therapist to determine if they are the best fit for your child with apraxia of speech:
What additional trainings have you done in the area of childhood apraxia of speech?
When evaluating a response, any additional training is certainly better than none, and even a single training is an improvement over zero. However, the best outcome comes from working with a therapist who has training in multiple approaches. For instance, while PROMPT training is valuable, it isn't the most evidence-based method for treating apraxia of speech. The combination of PROMPT with Dynamic Temporal Tactile Cueing (DTTC) and principles of motor learning would be ideal!
Key trainings supported by research for apraxia include: Dynamic Temporal Tactile Cueing (DTTC), principles of motor learning, Rapid Syllable Transition Training (ReST), Integrated Phonological Awareness (IPA), and the Nuffield Dyspraxia Program.
While not specific to apraxia, there is evidence supporting other methods for improving motor planning disorders, such as PROMPT, Kaufman Speech to Language Protocol, and the Speech-EZ Apraxia Program.
Although a method may not have specific research evidence for apraxia, it doesn't necessarily mean it won't be effective. However, when seeking a specialist, it's important to ensure they understand these distinctions.
How many children have you treated with apraxia of speech?
Experience in treating apraxia of speech is a crucial factor when selecting a speech therapist for your child. However, years of experience are only valuable if the therapist employs the evidence-based methods mentioned above. It's essential to ensure that the therapist has a proven track record in using these effective, research-supported approaches to treat apraxia.
Are you willing to learn more about apraxia of speech if you aren't familiar with treating?
Depending on where you live, it can be difficult to find a therapist with additional training in treating apraxia. In this case, find a therapist willing to step out of their comfort zone and learn more about how to treat apraxia.
What does therapy look like with you when treating apraxia?
Repetitive speech practice is a key component of progress in apraxia therapy. Your child's speech therapist should be able to outline an approach that emphasizes a lot of verbal practice during each session, while ensuring the experience remains fun and engaging. Therapy should be play-based and child-led, but it's also important for the therapist to set clear boundaries and expectations to guide the session. While we want your child to enjoy the process, frequent speech practice is essential. Apraxia therapy strikes a delicate balance between providing ample opportunities for speech practice and avoiding frustration that could cause your child to disengage.
Selecting the right speech therapist for your child with apraxia of speech is important for ensuring effective treatment and progress. Because most graduate programs do not offer extensive training on the evaluation and treatment of apraxia, it is important to ask targeted questions to assess the therapist’s expertise and experience. Look for professionals with specialized training in evidence-based approaches such as Dynamic Temporal Tactile Cueing (DTTC) and principles of motor learning, and ensure they have hands-on experience working with children with apraxia. Additionally, a therapist’s willingness to continue learning and adapt their methods is key to providing the best care for your child. By finding a therapist who can balance structured speech practice with a fun, engaging, and child-led approach, you can give your child the best chance at success in their therapy journey.
Are you ready to help your child become a better communicator? At Resolute Therapy Collaborative, there's no need to wonder if your child is improving-- you'll see the progress firsthand! Contact us to get started!
Comments