Returning to Work with Aphasia

Author: Brett McCardel, MS, CCC-SLP

Many people with aphasia report wanting to return to work in some capacity ๐Ÿ’ผ โฃ
โฃ
Here are some ways that treatment sessions can help target return to work goals:โฃ
โฃ
-Make your treatment tasks tied around what your client will need at their workplace. Examples include using script training to prepare for making phone calls, or using Semantic Feature Analysis and Phonological Components Analysis for occupation-related words that your client will need to use throughout the day ๐Ÿ“ž ๐Ÿ—ฃโฃ
โฃ
-Refer to a Vocational Rehab specialist to help join the treatment team! These specialists are well-trained to help navigate the functional, psychological, and cognitive difficulties that your client may encounter upon returning to work ๐Ÿ—„๐Ÿ“‹โฃ
โฃ
-Explore assistive technology options! Check out tools already loaded onto your clientโ€™s work computer such as text-to-speech software, or standalone tools such as a C-Pen Reader or Electronic Speller ๐Ÿ’ป ๐Ÿ“ฑโฃ
โฃ
-Create a supportive working environment by brainstorming ways to make your clientโ€™s individual workspace a place where they can do their best work. This may include finding ways to limit noise via headphones or having a large planner at their desk that they can refer to throughout the day for keeping track of tasks and appointments ๐ŸŽง ๐Ÿ“†โฃ
โฃ
-Consider a phased-in approach when returning to work. This may at first look like volunteering or working part time before jumping back into full time work. A glimpse into what will be needed at work can be really helpful for treatment planning purposes, and can also help your clients gain confidence in their abilities! ๐Ÿ‘Š๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿผโฃ
โฃ
โฃ
What are other ways that you make your sessions most helpful for your clients who want to return to the workplace?โฃ
โฃ
โฃ
#aphasiastrong #speechtherapy #vocationaltraining #vocationalrehab #jobskills