How I Decide What to Work on First (Without Overthinking)

Have you ever looked at a new client’s goals and thought, “Okay… now what?”You’re not alone.In this episode of All Things SLP, I’m walking you through how I decide what to work on first with every single speech client—whether they’re brand new to your caseload or you’re entering an area you don’t feel fully confident in yet.We’ll talk about why that “deer in the headlights” feeling is so common (especially with complex areas like phonology, fluency, AAC, or apraxia), and how having a consistent decision-making framework can take so much pressure off therapy planning.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:Why choosing the right approach always comes before choosing targetsHow target selection changes depending on the approach you useWhy teaching must come before practice—no matter the skillHow to stop overthinking and start therapy with more clarity and confidenceThis episode is part reminder, part mindset shift, and part practical guidance—especially if you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed when starting therapy.If you’re craving a simpler, more repeatable way to approach your caseload, this one’s for you.The Speech Therapy Toolbox MembershipEarly Intervention Academy course for SLPsConnect with Erin:InstagramFacebookemail: [email protected]