Technical Sessions

Megan Martin, BHS, University of MIssouri
Kelsie Lensing, BHS, University of MIssouri
Dana Fritz, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, University of Missouri

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the field of Speech-Language Pathology finds itself at a unique intersection of generations. This presentation delves into the impact of generational diversity on the supervision of beginning SLP clinicians, CFs and SLP-As.  Within the workforce, we currently witness the convergence of four distinct generations: Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. Each of these cohorts brings its own set of values, communication preferences, and expectations, which can significantly influence the supervisory dynamics and the education of their supervisees.  This presentation illuminates how Baby Boomers, with their wealth of experience and wisdom, interact with their Gen Z counterparts, who are tech-savvy digital natives. It explores how Gen X, often characterized by their pragmatism, interfaces with the passion and idealism of Millennials. By examining these intergenerational relationships, we uncover opportunities for enhanced learning experiences, improved mentorship, and increased effectiveness in clinical supervision.  Through engaging insights from presenters of different generations, real-life case studies, and practical strategies, this presentation offers a roadmap for SLP professionals to navigate and harness the strengths of each generation, ultimately fostering a more harmonious and enriching environment for student clinicians. Understanding these generational dynamics is not only essential for educators and supervisors but also pivotal for ensuring the continued growth and success of the field of Speech-Language Pathology in an increasingly diverse and intergenerational workforce.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Understand the unique characteristics, values, and communication styles associated with different generations currently in the work force.
• Identify how these generational traits can impact the supervision of student clinicians, CFs and SLP-As.
• Discuss and create practical strategies for tailoring their clinical supervision approaches to accommodate the diverse needs and expectations of students across different generations.
• Analyze how to leverage the strengths of each generation to create a collaborative and productive atmosphere that benefits both supervisees and their supervisors.

Intermediate | Speech/Language Pathology

Kathryn Burns, BS, Rockhurst University
Michelle McOsker, EdD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University

The purpose of this study was to explore how family members of individuals with neurogenic communication disorders perceive speech-language pathology (SLP) graduate students compared to certified and licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs). A survey was conducted in order to gather quantitative data to explore these perceptions. Participants were recruited through social media groups, community organizations, and community-based support groups. This session will present preliminary data collected via the survey and discuss how this informs the teaching and clinical practice of SLP graduate students.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Summarize caregivers’ perceptions of speech-language pathology graduate students.
• Compare and contrast the impact of speech-language pathology graduate students to certified and licensed speech-language pathologists.
• Identify 2 benefits of working with a speech-language pathology graduate student.

Introductory | SLP-Educational Topic

Katherine Hazen, BA, Rockhurst University
Michelle McOsker, EdD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University

Communication is a dynamic exchange of information and ideas, fundamental to active societal participation and a high quality of life. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) recognizes the vital role of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in this process, encompassing a range of expressive modes. This critical analysis of literature examines the present challenge of identifying the most fitting AAC devices for children navigating the difficulties of CVI and communication impairments. Recognizing the diverse communication needs within this population, the research places emphasis on the assessment process to determine the optimal AAC device, considering options ranging from no-tech to low-tech and high-tech devices. By closely examining the visual needs of children with CVI, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the selection and implementation of AAC tools tailored to their unique communication needs. Understanding the specifics of the assessment process is fundamental in ensuring that children with CVI receive effective and personalized communication support, ultimately contributing to improved communication outcomes and an enhanced quality of life for this particular demographic.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Summarize the distinctive communication challenges faced by children with cortical visual impairment (CVI).
• Compare the suitability of various augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) modalities for children with CVI.
• List three considerations for AAC assessment for children with CVI.

Intermediate | SLP-Clinical Topic

Patrick Beasley, Rockhurst University
Abby Eubank, MS, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University
Jennifer Cannady, MA, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University

Objective/Purpose: Singers represent a significant percentage of patients seen in voice centers around the U.S. With growing demands in performance, it is essential to identify therapeutic and counseling strategies beyond voice therapy to increase longevity in the singer with VFN. The primary objective of this critical appraisal and clinical tutorial is to highlight three unique characteristics of the singer diagnosed with vocal fold nodules (VFN): singing vs. speaking load, personality trends, and genres of music.  Attendees will be able to identify these unique characteristics and how they might be utilized in evaluation and treatment through a theoretical clinical case study.  Methods: A critical appraisal was conducted to search peer-reviewed journals for the highest level of evidence that supports these unique considerations. The search resulted in 9 articles total that supported our considerations.  Results: Critical appraisal of evidence revealed that singers with a diagnosis of VFN speak at greater lengths and volumes as compared to their healthy counterparts, scored higher on personality measures such as impulsivity, dominance, and assertiveness, stress and anxiety measures, and contemporary genres have a higher prevalence of phonotraumatic lesions, such as vocal fold nodules when compared to classical genres.  Conclusion/Implications: This critical appraisal and clinical tutorial highlights three unique characteristics exhibited by singers with a diagnosis of VFN, which can be used in clinical evaluation and treatment options beyond the notion and in addition to voice therapy. These characteristics could also be used to identify risk factors for the development of VFN.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Identify differences in speaking and singing load measures for singers diagnosed with vocal fold nodules.
• Identify personality traits associated with singers diagnosed with vocal fold nodules.
• Learn introductory knowledge of music genres and their associations with singers diagnosed with vocal fold nodules.
• Apply their knowledge of singing vs. speaking load, personality, and music genre to inform clinical evaluation and treatment of singers with vocal fold nodules.

Intermediate | SLP-Clinical Topic

Ivy Jones, BS, Fontbonne University

This session will provide a review of the literature surrounding communication disorders and their impact on the risk for homelessness in the adult population as well as other risks for homelessness. How communication disorders can subsequently lead to these other risks for homelessness and what resources are available for clinicians to help better support the community will also be discussed.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Identify the risks for homelessness in adults.
• Identify how communication disorders impact these risks.
• Recall resources available for clinicians to better serve the community.

Introductory | Multi-Interest

Tucker Murry; Nicole Taylor; Ilene Elmlinger, AuD, CCC-A, from Truman State University

Alexus Ahner, BS, Fontbonne University
Susan Williams, BS , Fontbonne University
Michael Hauge, MS, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Fontbonne University

This study hypothesizes that diaphragmatic breathing can extend mealtimes and reduce pain and anxiety for patients who undergo FEES evaluations. A group of (20) participants was scoped and timed during a meal to determine whether the practice of diaphragmatic breathing is beneficial in extending the amount of time and that the assessment can be tolerated, as well as reducing pain and anxiety. Speech-language pathologists might consider the practice of teaching diaphragmatic breathing to their patients in conjunction with FEES evaluations.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Discuss the anxiety, pain, and decreased tolerance that can be associated with FEES exams
• Consider existing options for pain management and tolerance extension during FEES exams
• Analyze findings of incorporating Diaphragmatic Breathing into FEES exams

Introductory | SLP-Clinical Topic

Kennedy Hoelscher, Undergraduate, University of Missouri
Sophia Kington, Undergraduate, University of Missouri
Apaala Basak, Undergraduate, University of Missouri
Yasmine Green, University of Missouri
Teresa Lever, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, University of Missouri
Ilker Ozden, PhD, Faculty Advisor, University of Missouri

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) results in debilitating swallowing impairment (dysphagia) that profoundly degrades quality of life while increasing the risk of death by almost eight-fold. The underlying cause is attributed to degeneration of hypoglossal lower motor neurons (XII LMNs) that control tongue movement, an essential function for eating, speaking, and breathing. Therefore, approaches that can prevent XII LMN degeneration might provide effective therapies for dysphagia in ALS and other degenerative diseases affecting tongue function. A top candidate is optogenetics (opto-stim), a form of light stimulation therapy. We hypothesize that optogenetic stimulation of XII LMNs would slow XII LMN degeneration by mimicking a targeted tongue exercise paradigm, resulting in preservation of tongue motility/swallowing function and extended survival. To test this hypothesis, we are leveraging a translational mouse model of ALS. Using this model, we have been developing tools and procedures to investigate the therapeutic effects of opto-stim of XII LMNs during voluntary swallow-related behaviors (drinking, eating, grooming). We propose this novel approach could ultimately translate into a minimally-invasive targeted treatment for dysphagia caused by ALS and other degenerative diseases.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Explain the importance of translational research in the field of Speech-Language Pathology.
• Explain the importance of tongue function in swallowing, breathing, and speaking.
• Identify the patient populations that optogenetic stimulation is translatable to.

Intermediate | SLP-Clinical Topic

Carmyn Lowe, BA, Rockhurst University
Michelle McOsker, EdD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University

As of 2019, it was recorded by the National Institute of Health that 65,000 children in the United States received a cochlear implant (CI). It is crucial to complete early intervention for hearing loss in newborns and younger children as soon as possible to ensure language acquisition and development. The early intervention process is completed very quickly allowing little time for parents/caregivers to complete personal research or have the opportunity to fully educate themselves on all of their available options (i.e. cochlear implants, hearing aids, american sign language (ASL), or simultaneous communication). It is believed that many parents/caregivers are not given the appropriate education to the Deaf community and often view being Deaf and using ASL in a negative context. There is significant research available that explains the effectiveness and implications of a CI, but very few articles explaining the parents’ perceptions and understanding the amount of knowledge they are given when having to make this life altering decision. It is even more difficult when there are biases made by health professionals, online resources, and exposure to other parents’ beliefs in their respective communities. Results aimed to be presented are which healthcare professionals hold the most influence in parents’ decisions, how confident do parents feel to seek out questions/resources, and which modalities do parents prefer to use.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Compare different communication modalities available to Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) children.
• Compare parents’ perceptions of different healthcare providers (physicians, audiologists, etc.) when making decisions for DHH children.
• List factors that contribute to a parent’s decision when selecting communication modalities.

Introductory | SLP-Clinical Topic

Michael Jacezko, BS, University of Missouri
Stephanie Knollhoff, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, University of Missouri

Background & Purpose: Within the foundational structure of voice disorders, speech-language pathologists are taught that there are connections to biological hormones. This framework has implications for assessment and treatment procedures. People assigned female at birth experience a large hormonal change much later in life as they progress through menopause. Menopause impacts women, who are also noted to predominantly be in high vocal demand careers, around similar ages as the increased prevalence of breast cancer, thyroid cancer, and osteoporosis. All of the previously mentioned medical diagnoses can lead to the prescription of hormones. In order to support a women’s voice we must have a clear understanding of what occurs due to biological hormones, and what changes are brought on by medications and other diagnoses. The purposes of this study was to begin understanding the female voice. The long term goal of this work is to develop treatment protocols that support the female voice. Retrospective review of medical records from patients seen at Columiba ENT which is associated with MU HealthCare. Patient medical history, perceptual voice measures, and stroboscopic video findings were analyzed.  Results and Conclusion: Data is still being analyzed. During this presentation we will report on findings and discuss similarities and differences to the current normative data as well as how this information my impact the practice of speech-language pathology.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Identify key structures and measures observed during an instrumental voice assessment using stroboscopic examination
• Identify perceptual voice characteristics observed during a voice evaluation using the CAPE-V
• Differentiate between how the hormones testosterone and estrogen may impact the voice of those AFAB

Intermediate | SLP-Clinical Topic

Ashley Daniel, BS, Missouri State University
Dee Telting, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Missouri State University

This technical session delves into the landscape of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) services in Uganda, offering a unique undergraduate viewpoint. The presenter will cover various topics, including the scope of practice, various settings, and populations served by SLPs in the Pearl of Africa. Drawing from firsthand experiences and insights, the session explores the status of Speech-Language Pathology in Uganda, while emphasizing the similarities and differences in the roles of SLPs between America and Uganda. The presenter will spotlight the significance of undergraduate advocacy and participation in SLP services within a developing nation, shedding light on the distinctive challenges and the profound impacts of her firsthand experience. This session aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of SLP services in Uganda and inspire students and professionals to explore the world of Speech-Language Pathology outside the United States.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Gain an insight into the scope, clinical settings, and populations served by SLPs in Uganda, emphasizing both the differences and similarities in roles of SLPs between America and Uganda.
• Understanding of the current status and barriers of SLP services in Uganda.
• Understand the challenges and growth opportunities witnessed by the presenter while actively involved in observing and participating in SLP services in Uganda.

Introductory | Multicultural

Alexandria Miller, BS, Rockhurst University
Michelle McOsker, EdD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University

People with disabilities often encounter significant barriers to employment, despite possessing unique and valuable skills. This case study highlights the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities seeking employment, including their own disabilities, inaccessible physical environments, the lack of assistive tools and technologies, negative workplace attitudes, limited job opportunities, and the fear of social isolation and perception. To address these issues and promote inclusion, it is crucial for employers to recognize the potential of these individuals and understand how to support them effectively. This case study aims to create awareness among potential employers about the advantages of hiring people with disabilities. It advocates for inclusion and equality in the workplace and emphasizes the valuable skills, such as attention to detail and dedication, that individuals with disabilities often bring to their roles. By fostering a more inclusive work environment and addressing the concerns mentioned, employers can tap into an underutilized talent pool and contribute to a more diverse and equitable workforce. Strategies for creating a welcoming and supportive workplace for individuals with disabilities are also discussed with a focus of an individual with Tourette Syndrome and Autism.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Identify common challenges and barriers faced by individuals with disabilities seeking employment
• Explain qualities of inclusion and equality in work environments
• Compare strategies for creating an accessible and inclusive work environment for individuals with disabilities

Introductory | SLP-Educational Topic

Chloe Baker, Undergraduate Student, University of Missouri
Sophie Kingston, Undergraduate Student, University of Missouri
Lauren Smith, Undergraduate Student, University of Missouri
Zach McAdams, BS, University of Missouri
Teresa Lever, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, University of Missouri

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury is a common adverse outcome of anterior neck surgeries (e.g., thyroidectomy, carotid endarterectomy, etc.), resulting in vocal fold paralysis and consequential dysphonia (vocal dysfunction), dysphagia (swallowing impairment), and dyspnea (breathing difficulty) that can severely impact quality of life. Current treatment options are unfortunately limited and do not fully restore laryngeal function. To address this major clinical gap, we developed a rat model of surgical RLN injury with chronic vocal fold paralysis to permit exploration of novel treatment strategies with high translational potential to human surgical patients. Here, we highlight our efforts to detect and characterize dysphonia in this model using a “rat tickling” approach with a cohort of 8 rats while using a specialized microphone and audio recording software (Avisoft) in synchrony with webcam video recording. At baseline (pre-surgery) and weekly to monthly thereafter for 4 consecutive months, rats were subjected to multiple trials of various tickling approaches in a sound-attenuated chamber, with the goal of determining which approaches evoked a repertoire of audible, 22kHz, and 44kHz calls (vocalizations) for each rat (i.e., personalized medicine approach). For analysis, we explored several software programs and ultimately used the open-source R to develop a semi-automated workflow for call detection, classification, and quantification of several translational outcome measures (e.g., jitter, shimmer, fundamental frequency, etc.). Although analysis is still underway, preliminary results suggest that rat tickling may improve the detection and characterization of dysphonia over standard ultrasonic vocalization protocols commonly used with rodent models of RLN injury.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Identify the importance of translational research methods.
• Outline the impact of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury on affected populations.
• Recognize patterns of dysphonia in rat models.

Intermediate | SLP-Clinical Topic

Joelle Kantayya, BS, Truman State University
Kelsey Aurand de Razo, MA, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Truman State University

An exploration of the changes in pre-service SLP and pre-service educator perceptions and attitudes regarding racism in the schools during completion of a one-credit book and discussion course. A discussion on the change observed within one semester when students are guided through the process of confronting biases and led to critically reflect on their own identity.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Describe the historical context of institutional racism in the U.S. in relation to access to services
• Identify the critical window for confronting biases
• Recognize the role that undergraduate and graduate training programs have in fostering cultural humility for pre-service clinicians

Introductory | Multicultural

Elizabeth Newman, BS, Fontbonne University
Amanda Eaton, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Fontbonne University

Group therapies have been found to have synergistic benefits for clients with aphasia. However, targeting multiple goals within single activities can be challenging for clinicians. This presentation summarizes strategies used in a small group case study with two clients with aphasia. Specifically, methods for targeting complementary goals in a small group setting will be discussed. Benefits of group therapy and steps for developing group activities will also be discussed.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Identify methods for targeting complementary goals in small group settings.
• Recall the benefits of small group therapy.
• Describe steps for creating group therapy activities.

Intermediate | SLP-Clinical Topic

Lauren Kivland, BS, Rockhurst University
Jerrien O’Dwyer, BS, Rockhurst University
Kimberly Reynolds, BS, Rockhurst University
Anna Stutheit, BA, Rockhurst University
Pam Hart, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University
Shatonda Jones, PhD, CCC-SLP, Faculty Advisor, Rockhurst University

The purpose of this research was to identify facilitators and barriers to effective implementation of AAC for people with Cerebral Palsy according to current literature. To accomplish this, the university directory of databases was searched using various combinations of keywords to identify all relevant articles. Six articles were ultimately identified as representative of the best available evidence for this question. Results revealed several common themes, as well as areas in need of future research. Implications for clinical practice are discussed.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

• Identify barriers and facilitators to effective AAC implementation for people with Cerebral Palsy according to current research literature.
• List directions for future research regarding AAC use in the Cerebral Palsy population.
• Compare AAC implementation recommendations from current literature about people with Cerebral Palsy to their own clinical practices.

Intermediate | SLP-Clinical Topic