SLP Happy Hour

This two part episode explores:Using the SPIKES model as a useful tool to format conversations around the Autism evaluation and eligibility process within the educational settingSystems-wide changes SLPs need to support families through this process As it stands now, the Autism evaluation process in the preschool and school-age population is overwhelming for parents to navigate. What doesn't help? As SLPs, graduate school didn't prepare many of us for these conversations, and many of us don't have the supports we need at work to truly spend the time we need educating and supporting families through this process. This episode provides a framework for structuring conversations with families (SPIKES protocol) with examples tailored towards the educational eligibility process, and ideas for how workplaces can better support SLPs through the pre-assessment, evaluation, and eligibility process so we (as SLPs) have the time and resources we need to better support families through this evaluation and eligibility process.

In this interview with Dr Jennifer Hanners Gutierrez, there's an exploration of the SPIKES protocol, which comes from the medical word and gives touch points for sharing difficult news with the students/clients and families we work with.Jennifer's substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/jenniferhannersgutierrezShow notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/197Review the show: http://bit.ly/2kM2JPQSLP Happy Hour on Teachers Pay Teachers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/slp-happy-hour

In this interview with SLP Sarah Bishop, topics covered include: What it's like to work on a military base Tips for working with advocatesThe range of advocates available, and varying motivations that may impact their work How to care for yourself after a difficult meetingHow to remember that you are making a differenceFor full show notes and transcript visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/196Review the podcast: https://apple.co/2PuZc8cSLP Happy Hour Teachers Pay Teachers Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/slp-happy-hour

In this episode, Sarah shares perspectives on managing difficult feedback as an SLP, including from bosses, parents, teachers and the families we work with. Points of discussion include: shrinking the ego, zooming out, taking a neutral third-party perspective, and more. For show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/195Please consider supporting the SLP Happy Hour store on Teachers Pay Teachers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/slp-happy-hour

In this episode, SLP Kristen Powell discusses the challenges of her former AAC private practice, and how she found satisfaction returning to the school system. Kristen on IGShow Notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/194

This episode covers three tips for imposter syndrome and burnout including: My job is not the most important thing in lifeOver work and over preparation doesn’t lead to better resultsMake good mistakes Full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/194

This episode includes 5 IEP Tips including: Dealing with interruptions Giving the team clarity on how the meeting will be run and time paramatersHow to facilitate parent inputStaying on time and on agendaWhat to do with conflictFull show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/193

In this episode with High School SLP Leah Brakebill, a full-time High School SLP, you'll learn:Solutions for common challenges with high school therapy (i.e. teachers not sending students, students skipping, students using phones/airpods during speech) Language Intervention sessions at the High School Level - what does she do?Running student-directed Autism groups for adolescentsMore about Leah's relaxed and intuitive therapy styleLeah's perspective on being a busy public school SLP - and recognizing that what you are doing is enoughFull show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/192

In this solo episode, Sarah discusses work lessons she's learned the hard way so that you don't have to, including:You decide the pace of your work and how much you have to giveBe cautious of workplace friendshipsAcknowledge there will always be too much work to doAccept (and change) the bad, but also acknowledge the good...and moreshow notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/191

In this episode with Dr Klaire Brumbaugh, we discuss:Prioritization at workDetermining your work "buckets" and how that helps you say noMaking boundaries clearFinding joyDr B on InstagramShow notes: www.slphappyhour/show-notes/190

In this solo episode, Sarah talks about (mostly) closing her private practice and 11 indicators that showed her it was time for a change. Show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/189

In this interview with Dr Amy Peterson, she shares a language intervention for comprehension called Sketch and Speak, designed for grades 3+.This episode covers:Who is the intervention for?What kind of readings were used?What are the aids for comprehension?How did students summarize the passage?How can we implement this intervention?For full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/188

In this episode, Sarah covers basic Q and A about the complexity approach, including:Who is it for?What is the theory behind it?How do you implement it?...And more!For full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/187

In this episode, the discussion centers on:Taking a “whole” child approach to your SLP sessionsChoosing complex targets (for speech and language)Incorporating movement in session for more gainsChoosing effective goals/targetsFor full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/186

Today we have a special guest, owner of a Canadian private practice (Ontario-area), Becky McArthur of We Communicate. In this episode, topics discussed include: How Becky opened up her niche (private pay) private practiceSystems within We Communicate Creating a private practice that serves your needs Preparing families for intervention by compassionately having difficult conversations Resources for SLPS who'd like to learn more about literacy For full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/185

In this episode with guest Sara Serota, topics discussed include:Robust assessments for stuttering within the school systemDetermining educational impactCounseling studentsCoaching communication partners...and moreFor full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/184

In this episode with Kelly Harvill from Speaking of Images, discussion topics include:Kelly's job as an early childhood evaluatorcomparing yourself with other SLPstrusting yourself to practice "your way," even if the way you practice is different from othersknowing that if others practice differently, that isn't necessarily betterKelly's experience being in the profession for 30 years, and her thoughts on creating a rewarding, long-term career as an SLPShow notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/183More on Kelly: www.speakingofimages.com

In this episode, SLP Deborah Brooks shares how to create verbal play-based routines to support speech sound development for preschoolers.Show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/182

In this episode, Deborah Brooks shares tips for creating play-based language sessions for preschoolers that hold short attention spans and are effective ways to grow language skills.Show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/181

In this episode with SLP Rachel Braga, we'll answer questions like:How can we discuss telepractice with parents who are skeptical of the model? As remote SLPs, how can we develop relationship with onsite teams? For parents who are resistant to trying the first session - what are ways to reduce pressure at talk about "trying" a session? The pay differences from working a public job to telepracticeAnd more!show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/180Review the podcastSarah's Teachers Pay Teachers StoreNewsletter

In this episode, former SLP Happy Hour cohost Sarie Wu returns to share some updates about her job, and at timestamp 6:45 Sarie and Sarah discuss travel. Sarie has traveled in 21 countries and discusses some recommended international destinations to travel. Sarah shares some places to travel within the US that she loves to visit. And more!Review the podcastSarah's Teachers Pay Teachers StoreNewsletter

In this cohosted episode with Nikki Hunjan (Teach Speech 365), we discuss: Do SLPs lean too heavily on the presonal practice/experience corner of the EBP triangle?How did we prepare for the praxis?What are the parts of being an SLP graduate school didn't prepare us for? ...and more Full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/178Review the podcastSarah's Teachers Pay Teachers StoreNewsletter

In this episode Sarah shares her job transition from working full time in her own clinic to working full-time (remote) telepractice.In this episode:Why the job change?How is it going?Has the setting transition helped your work-life balance?What is the income difference?What equipment did you have to invest in to switch to telepractice?How can you find a telepractice company that pays good rates?And more!Show notesReview the podcastSarah's Teachers Pay Teachers Store

In this episode, Sarah shares:The difference between values and goalsHow to develop values (step by step) for the year aheadHow to use values to guide actionsAnd moreFor full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/176Newsletter: www.slphappyhour.com/newsletterReview the podcast: https://apple.co/2PuZc8c

In this solo episode, Sarah shares 10 lessons to reflect on before creating your New Year's Goals, so that you can start the New Year with a bit more self kindness, including:Before you add something in, take something awayDetermine if you are in a season of growth or a season of maintenanceYou can control your work, but you can't control the outcome...and moreNo matter what time of year, listen to this episode for a self compassionate way to reflect on what's behind and mindfully enter into what's ahead.For full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/175NewsletterReview the Podcast

In this cohosted episode (which is more on the chatty side), Nikki and Sarah share:Life updates: Nikki shares her children's progress in speech therapy, Sarah shares her frustration to make progress on what she thought would be an easy goalLazy lessons: easy lessons to try this monthAs things get busy, the cohosts share what they are not prioritizing at work and at home this season, and what they are deciding to prioritize insteadFollow Nikki on Instagram Follow Sarah on Instagram MentionedGiant Articulation Game BoardBook - Not What She SeemsBook - Body in the BookstoreMore From SLP Happy HourShow NotesNewsletterReview the Podcast

Would you like to learn more about child-led therapy sessions? In this interview with Alexandria Zachos, we discuss some myths of child-led sessions including:You can't measure progress in child-led sessionsChild-led sessions are a free for allYou can't do groups with child-led sessions...and more For full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/173NewsletterReview the podcast

What does it mean to be a “good enough” SLP? In this episode, Sarah shares 5 things being a “good enough” SLP means to her, and encourages you to make your own list of what being an imperfectly good SLP means to you. Full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/172Review the podcast

Have you ever considered leaving a school job mid-year? Although it's not ideal, sometimes circumstances become such that we might feel like it becomes the only option. This episode discusses: Signs it's time to leave a jobMegan's experience of leaving a school job midyearWhat happened with the school board & her principal when she resignedHer next SLP job - and did things get better? For full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/171Review the podcast

In this episode, Sarah shares some big work changes she’s making, as well as why private practice might not be for everyone.Review the PodcastShow notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/170

In this episode, SLP Sara Ware (Instagram) shares tips for guiding families and learners through the early stages of the AAC process, including:Work with families to determine goalsDetermine daily routines as opportunities to model languageMeet the family where they are atAsk open-ended questions (including what has and hasn’t worked, and what they have and haven’t tried so far) before offering suggestionsSLPs can guide next steps, but work with families to make sure the next step feels “right-sized” for the familiesFor full show notes, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/169Review the podcast: https://apple.co/3piL2VD

As speech language pathologists, many of us got into this work to help people. This can make it difficult when we receive criticism and feedback - especially from the families of the students we work with. In this episode, you’ll learn 7 tips for navigating difficult feedback conversations with grace and compassion. These are things as SLPs we didn’t learn in graduate school (but should have!). Listening to parent perspectives is essential for understanding a child’s life, so how can we do that without allowing that feedback to dictate our treatment plans? How can we listen to feedback that may be difficult and hard to hear without taking it personally, listening for key topics or issues that may be just below the surface? While there is no way to “conflict proof” these conversations (all communication with humans will inherently involve conflict, since as humans we have differing desires and needs), these ideas may help you get through your next IEP meeting or parent conversation moving forward in a more positive direction. Full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/168

n this episode with Kim Lewis from Activity Tailor, we discuss 5 ways to build a sustainable SLP career. ✅ 5 Tips for Building a Sustainable SLP CareerCommunicate with caregivers, don’t put pressure for progress all on your own shoulders.Identify what “good enough” work for you means and what that looks like.Separate your identity from your job, your title isn’t who you are. Think about your strengths and your values - who you are isn’t only your professional role.What you do today is enough.Make it simple whenever possible.

In this solo episode, Sarah shares 7 ways to separate work from identity, which can help SLPs tend to burnout and recover. Full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/166

In this quick solo episode, Sarah shares 5 ways to get clients for your private practice.Private practice coaching for SLPs: www.slphappyhour.com/coachShow Notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/165Newsletter: www.slphappyhour.com/newsletter

In this episode, Sarah and Suzanne Aldrich discuss Suzanne's private practice - focusing on Speech Sound Disorders (SSDs) for the birth-5 population.Full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/164Suzanne on IGFunctional Words for Apraxia Resource

:31In this varied interview with Danielle Guenther and Nikki Hunjan (and host Sarah), the trio discusses:The emotions and caring that go into this workSeparating your identity from your jobThe amount of money and time SLPs spend of their own for this career...and moreTime Stamps(0:00) Intro & Our Careers so Far(2:13) Clinic vs Schools: Pros and Cons(5:23) Life Changes & Job Changes(7:00) Identity & Being an SLP(19:20) Lesson Planning(23:00) Spending Less Money on Games & Materials(25:00) Wrap UpResources Show NotesNewsletterLate Talkers E-Book Review the Podcast

In this episode w/ Klaire Brumbaugh (IG: slpwithdr.b), the following topics are discussed: Managing treatment overwhelm (all the SSD approaches!) Choosing an SSD approachAre we supposed to do these approaches as outlined in the studies? How do we implement them in the real world of therapy sessions? Show NotesFull show notes at: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/163Time Stamps (0:00) Intro(1:17) Burnout (7:16) Choosing an SSD approach Overwhelm(9:33) Myths in Treating SSDs & Implementing Research as Published (16:33) Do we need 100 trials per session to be effective? (19:50) Choosing Approaches & Combining Approaches (23:30) Case Study: 4.5yo, suspected CAS, significant phonological disorder(26:05) Complexity Approach (28:53) Stimulability Approach (30:01) Case Study 2: 4yo, suspected motor speech disorder, shuts down and isn't imitating in speech sessions (33:00) Core Vocabulary Approach (36:40) Further Resources (40:00) Encouragement for SLPs treating SSDs (40:55) Outro Resources Scip App (Sound Contrasts in Phonology) StaRt App (for /r/ sound) Informed SLP SSD Article Ulster University SSD Approaches Choice Tool

In this episode with SLP Happy Hour former Podcast Host Sarie Wu, we discuss some updates from Sarie, and then around minute (5:00) start discussing our favorite places to travel. Sarie discusses international destinations, as she's traveled to 21 countries. Sarah shares some of her favorite US locations to visit. Full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/179

In this episode, Sarah shares toys she uses for toddlers and preschoolers with expressive language delay. You will also learn TONS of play-based ideas for using these toys in early sessions.Links:Full Show Notes Late Talkers E-BookBlog post that accompanies this episode

This episode covers what it's like to work in the schools as a speech language pathologist. Guests Rachel Archambault and Megan Stewart do a deep dive into creating a sustainable career as a school SLP. Whether you are new to the profession or are a seasoned SLP, this thoughtful discussion covers:✔️ pros and cons of working in the school setting ✔️ advocating for yourself as your caseload grows✔️ how to deal with SLP guilt about the things you can't do ✔️ pacing your day ✔️ how to spot a toxic work environment & factors you'll find in a healthy workplace✔️ tips for changing jobs - information to gather at the interview and before you commit to a new employer ...and moreFull show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/161Late Talkers e-book: https://www.slphappyhour.com/shop/latetalkersebook Review the Podcast: https://apple.co/2PuZc8c

This interview with Crystal Lara-Nava and Sara Serota is wide ranging and covers:How to support yourself and advocate for yourself as an SLP without childrenWhat To Say & What Not To SayAre we still good SLPs? Can we understand the full SLP experience without children? (The short answer: yes.) 'Full Show Notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/160Private Practice Coaching: www.slphappyhour.com/coachNewsletter: www.slphappyhour.com/newsletterReview the Podcast: https://apple.co/2PuZc8c

Are you an SLP dealing with imposter syndrome? In this panel discussion with host Sarah and guests Emily Cohen (Tandem Speech) and Nikki Hunjan (Teach Speech 365), you’ll hear more about the topic from practicing SLPs.Topics Discussed:What is Imposter Syndrome (IS) and what is it’s history?What are different ways IS presents itself in the early stages?What can we do about IS?How can we offer more grace and flexibility to ourselves and the students and families we work with?Full show notes, including an episode transcript: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/159Please review the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts! To review the show: https://apple.co/2PuZc8c

Are you an SLP interested in opening a private practice?Or, are you curious about what it might be like to own your own private practice?In this Episode, Sarah interviews Cass Kim of Central Oahu Speech as they discuss the myths versus realities of owning your own practice.Time Stamps0:00 Intro0:40 Cass’s Books 3:31 Myth 1: You need to see students 40 hours per week to be full time 6:10 Myth 2: I’ll be earning six figures in private practice 8:38 Myth 3: I should be private pay only 12:16 Myth 4: Insurance is complicated and time consuming 16:30 Myth 5: If there are waiting lists in my area, I’ll get full quickly 20:00 Myth 6: It’s more cost effective to drive to homes versus have a physical space29:08 Important things to consider when opening a private practice, boundaries in private practice35:53 Who is a good candidate for opening a private practice? For full show notes visit: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/158Topics Discussed:Should I take insurance?Should I drive to homes or have a physical space?How long can it take to get full?Who is private practice good for?In this candid interview, Sarah and Cass also discuss their favorite (and least favorite) parts of owning a practice.ResourcesTeacher Handouts for Autism Private Practice Coaching with Sarah

In this episode with medical SLP Rinki Varindani Desai, we discuss:How do you know when it's time to make a career transition?How can you work past fear of the unknown?What is a good first step when you know you want to make a change, but don't know what that change should be?For more on Rinki, visit the show notes or follow the STEP Community or Rinki on Instagam. Show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/157Review the Podcast: https://apple.co/3piL2VD

Links for books mentioned: https://amzn.to/3rczOc0 (Affiliate Link)Show Notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/156Books Mentioned and Time Stamps: 3:57 Mexican Gothic4:43 Anatomy a Love Story6:15 The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches7:04 Lost Coast Literary8:00 Murder in an Irish Village9:47 Ravenfall11:09 The Wisteria Society of Lady ScoundrelsCorrections/Clarification: The Agatha Christie Book I'm reading the The Murder of Roger Ackroid (not Daniel); Murder in an Irish Village James is the suspect (I say subject - meaning of the murder investigation).Review the Podcast: https://apple.co/2PuZc8c

Do you have a private practice? Are you considering opening one? Canceled appointments can be frustrating as they reduce your income - especially when they are late notice. So, let's make a plan to address this common issue. In this episode, Sarah walks you through specific situations in which cancels occur and what to do about them in private practice, including:Families who cancel for a lot of the summerFamilies who often cancel for illnessFamilies who don't give 24 hour noticeIf you'd like Sarah to coach you as you build your private practice, visit: www.slphappyhour.com/coach For monthly (or so) updates including easy lesson ideas:www.slphappyhour.com/newsletterReview the podcast:https://apple.co/2PuZc8cUpdate: I'm no longer scheduling for 6 extra sessions per week for cancels, I'm doing more like 3. That said, I need to bump it up to 4-5 extra sessions (once you listen to the episode, you'll understand the context). Cancellation rates are a moving target, so I'm still adjusting.

In this episode with Megan Stewart from Sensible Literacy, we discuss:Our favorite books for prek, early elementary and later elementaryOur favorite books for interests (space, dinosaurs, trains)For full show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/154

In this episode, Sarah shares 5 Common Mistakes SLPs make in sessions for Childhood Apraxia of Speech and what to do instead.Show Notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/153Apraxia Treatment Bundle (link)

In this episode with Megan Stewart from Sensible Literacy, you’ll learn:About her position specializing in AAC in the schoolsThe pros and cons of her jobWhat has (and hasn’t helped) as she’s approached burnoutMegan also asks Sarah about self care, her favorite population to work with, and where she’d live if she could choose.This episode ends with a self care challenge that includes saying no and editing your to-do list.Resources Show notes: www.slphappyhour.com/show-notes/152Review the Podcast Newsletter Parent Handouts Bundle