Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) working in the Developmental Disability (DD) Sector (SLPs in DD).
SLPs in DD is a forum for Speech-Language Pathologists to provide support and share information, ideas, and resources with other SLPs working in the specialized field of developmental disabilities. SLPs in DD is always looking for new members and seeks to include anyone who may benefit from the group and networking.
Members include clinicians in Ontario who work primarily with individuals with DD or current/recent graduate students planning on working with this population. However, some members work with a variety of other populations as well. For more information and access to some of the resources available, please follow this link: https://slps-in-dd.wikispaces.com/
Special Considerations for Speech Language Pathologists Serving People with Intellectual Disabilities
A supplementary resource to augment existing practice guidelines
Abstract:
The purpose of this document was to create a resource which follows available evidence based research for speech language pathologists (SLPs) working with children and adults who have an intellectual disability (ID). Unfortunately there is little coursework provided in graduate school to prepare SLPs for working with this population, nor are there many specific and applicable guidelines to direct practice. To develop this paper, literature and research were reviewed and summarized to provide information for SLPs regarding referrals, consent, screening, assessment, treatment, and discharge requirements for these unique clients. Topics such as speech, language, cognition, augmentative and alternative communication, pragmatics, and dysphagia are discussed. It also highlights common challenging areas when working with this population such as difficulty obtaining consent, lack of appropriate standardized assessment tools, collaborating with direct support personnel, and re-referrals. In preparing this document, it became clear that there is insufficient research specifically looking at assessment and intervention for people with ID. It is hoped that this document serves as a support for SLPs working in the area of intellectual disabilities and that more and more clinicians will initiate research to help further promote this extremely rewarding area of practice.
Full download available by clicking the following link: SLP Guidelines
Please be advised that this resource, event or link is only available in English.
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