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Counseling Techniques for Speech-Language Pathologists Jim Andrews and Mary Andrews |
Session 7: Suggestions and Assignments
Jim Andrews, Ph.D, Speech-Language Pathologist Mary Andrews, M.S., Couple & Family Therapist When we partner with clients and family members, it seems natural to discuss activities with them that they may do at home to promote speech-language change. We think of three different types of assignments to choose from: noticing assignments, intervention assignments, and assignments that assess progress outside of the therapy room. An example of a noticing assignment is, “Notice what you do to control the loudness of your voice.” This was given to an adult with severe dysarthria. Another example is, “Pay attention to the times that Kristy is most fluent.” This was given to parents of a young child whose father stuttered and was concerned that his daughter was also stuttering. Noticing assignments sometimes reframe or shift a person’s attention. This changes the way the situation is perceived, usually toward solutions rather than toward problems. This shift alone makes the client or family more effective partners with us. Second, these assignments may give family members and clients new information about their situation. Third, the clinician also may learn new information as clients describe their observations. Intervention assignments are typically given when a client is able to do something new, but needs more practice doing it. It is critical that the practice be successful for both the person in charge of the practice and the person doing the practicing. For this reason, we usually have them practice with us during the clinical session. These assignments are tailored to the individuals involved. We would not, for example, ask a father to practice with a child as they wrestled together if that was not a typical activity in which they engaged. In a similar vein, we would give an assignment (e.g., “Exaggerate the rhythm of your speech as you look at books with Alan”) to the family member who typically looked at books with Alan.In our experience, positive speech-language change usually occurs first at home, outside of the therapy room. Assignments such as, “You said that Josh is starting to imitate words you say. Pay attention to this and tell us about it next session,” are delivered to learn about nascent change occurring in situations other than during clinical sessions. Four general rules for delivering assignments that we like to use are as follows:
This podcast comes from Portland State University, Portland, OR. It is intended for students enrolled in Counseling in Speech and Hearing (SPHR 553) and anyone else wishing to improve his/her professional skills. Next Topic: Open Questions and Tracking Jim & Mary may be contacted at jmandrewsfbt@earthlink.net |
