Accelerating Your Practice: A Roadmap to Leadership, Ethics, Legislation and Community Building
Pre-Recorded Sessions available October 10-31.
Live Q&A Chat Sessions and Town Hall taking place October 25 and 27 from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Gain practical skills navigating various professional practice issues including advocacting for adequate resources and legislation to enhance service provision, addressing ethically challenging situations, using social media for public and professional education and mentorship, and understanding legislative processes and current bills that impact service provision.
Here’s how the event works: On October 10, you will receive two links via email:
Online Registration:
Pre-Recorded, one-hour sessions will be available on-demand October 10-31, 2022.
Live Q&A chats will take place October 25 and 27 according to the following schedule based on the pre-recorded sessions:
Note: There will not be a live chat for Session 1, Ethics to Defend Person-Centered Care.
| LIVE Q & A | |||
| Tuesday, October 25 | |||
| Session Number | Time | Session Title | Presenters |
| Session 2 | 6-7pm | Advocacy: You Can Do It! | Goldman; Adams; Ash; Brintnall; Brook; Sepe |
| Session 3 | 7-8pm | Speech-Language Pathology Influencers: The Good, Bad and Ugly | Miluk |
| Session 4 | 8-9pm | Effective Leadership in CSD | Coleman |
| Thursday, October 27 | |||
| Session 5 | 6-7pm | Policy and Political Advocacy | Armbrust |
| Session 6 | 7-8pm | How to Get Active in Advocacy in Communication Science and Disorders | West; Snyder |
| Session 7 | 8-9pm | PSHA Town Hall Meeting: Legislative Issues | Keegan |
Session 1 – ETHICS
Presented by Paula Leslie, MA, CCC-SLP, FRCSLT, and Marnie Kershner, CScD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CBIS
Abstract:
“Dysphagia” is a big word in the SLP scope of practice but may only be a tiny component of worry for our patients and families with eating drinking and swallowing impairments. We will discuss ethical principles and the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning model. We will discuss the development of patient/family goals of care from the perspective of ethics and W.H.O ICF leading to the evolution of better clinical decision making and patient care
Learner Outcomes:
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
Time-Ordered Agenda [60 mins no live chat session]:
5 minutes: Introductions and disclosures
10 minutes: Why eating, drinking and swallowing impairment is not just dysphagia [PL]
15 minutes: Informed consent and refusal in health care[PL]
15 minutes: W.H.O. ICF model and relevance to eating, drinking and swallowing needs [MK]
15 minutes: Application of principles to cases [MK]
Level of Learning: Intermediate
Speaker Biographies and Disclosures
Paula Leslie, MA (Bioethics), CCC-SLP, FRCSLT, is clinical licensed in the USA and UK where she is a professional adviser to the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists. She is the academic author of the 2021 RCSLT National Pre-registration Competencies in Eating, Drinking, and Swallowing. She is a member of the American Society for Bioethics & Humanities, The American Speech-Language Hearing Association SIG 13, SIG 15 Professional Development Committee, and a member of the Dysphagia Research Society. Her interests include the process of clinical decision making, health professionals’ education and non-traditional routes to advanced clinical training. She publishes, provides support to researchers and provides continuing education from grassroots to international level and across the health professions on complex clinical decision making, ethics and end of life decisions in vulnerable populations. Currently working part time in the UK NHS COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Programme.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter receives royalties from J&R Press and will be referencing her place of employment during her presentation.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Marnie Kershner, CScD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CBIS, is a practicing speech-language pathologists with over 10 years of experience working across the lifespan in a variety of settings (schools, skilled nursing facilities, long-term care, acute care, ICU, inpatient rehabilitation). She is currently a senior inpatient speech-language pathologist at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington DC, where she works with adults in the stroke and brain injury programs. Her interests include ethics in the assessment and treatment of eating, drinking and swallowing disorders, and supporting currently-practicing clinicians. Dr. Kershner is currently serving on the ASHA ad hoc committee to plan next steps to redesign entry-level education for speech-language pathologists, and as a mentor in the ASHA S.T.E.P. program. Her most recent publication was this year in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery titled: “It’s not only swallowing: a clinician primer to adult food refusal beyond dysphagia.”
Financial Disclosure: Presenter has no financial relationships to disclose.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose
Session 2
Presented by: Amy S. Goldman, MS, CCC-SLP; Kerry Adams, MS, CCC-SLP; Stephanie Ash, MA, CCC-SLP; Sonya Brintnall, MS, CCC-SLP; Susan Brook, MS, CCC-SLP; Tamara Sepe, MS, CCC-SLP
(Live Chat – October 25, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
Abstract:
This session will define advocacy and the speech-language pathologists’ role in advocating for their clients as well as their profession. Presenters, winners of the 2022 PSHA Amy S. Goldman Advocacy Award, will describe their experience advocating for improved working conditions in a large urban school district.
Learner Outcomes:
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
Time-Ordered Agenda:
3 minutes: Introductions of speakers and overview of learning objectives
8 minutes: What is advocacy? Why is advocacy a valid role for the SLP?
45 minutes: SIPS: A case study in making a difference.
4 minutes: Wrap up: criteria for PSHA’s Advocacy Award; opportunities and “Calls to Action”
One Hour: Live Chat (October 25, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
Level of Learning: Introductory
Speaker Biographies and Disclosures
Amy S. Goldman, MS, CCC-SLP, is currently chair of the Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, and President of the National Council of State Boards of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. She is a two-term past President of PSHA, where she also served as VP of Governmental Affairs. In 2022 she established the Amy S. Goldman Advocacy Award. Amy is retired from paid work.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter has no financial relationships to disclose.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter is the founder of the Amy S. Goldman Advocacy Award that will be mentioned during this presentation.
Kerry Adams, MS, CCC-SLP, has worked for the School District of Philadelphia for four years, where she is a lead therapist. She serves as treasurer and co-chair for the equity and diversity committee of SIPS.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is a salaried employee of the School District of Philadelphia and will reference her place of employment during her presentation.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Stephanie Ash, MA, CCC-SLP, has worked in a variety of settings including an Approved Private School, in-home and community-based therapy, outpatient therapy in a hospital setting, and within the public school system. Stephanie has always been interested in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and currently serves as the AAC Lead for the district. She is the recipient of the 2021 Clinical Achievement Award from PSHA and currently serves as the secretary for SIPS.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is a salaried employee of the School District of Philadelphia and will reference her place of employment during her presentation.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Sonya Brintnall, MS, CCC-SLP, has been a speech-language pathologist for over 20 years. This is her 14th year working for the School District of Philadelphia where she serves as a Lead therapist. She is a co-founder and co-chair of SLPs‘ Initiative for PA Schools (SIPS). She also is adjunct clinical faculty at Temple University.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is a salaried employee of the School District of Philadelphia and will reference her place of employment during her presentation.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Susan Brook, MS, CCC-SLP, has worked as a speech-language pathologist in the School District of Philadelphia for seven years. She currently serves as the Membership Coordinator for the SIPS organization. Susan’s career path was inspired by her older brother with autism; she is dedicated to serving all students in his honor.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is a salaried employee of the School District of Philadelphia and will reference her place of employment during her presentation.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Tamara Sepe, MS, CCC-SLP, has been a speech-language pathologist for more than 20 years. This will be her 6th year working for the School District of Philadelphia. She is a co-founder and co-chair of SLPs‘ Initiative for PA Schools (SIPS). SIPS advocates for improved working conditions for speech-language pathologists working for the School District of Philadelphia as a means to support the highest quality and efficiency of services for our students.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter has no financial relationships to disclose.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Session 3
Presented by Brianna Miluk, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC
(Live Chat – October 25, 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Abstract:
This session will discuss nuances of how to uphold ethics and values as a speech-language pathologist on social media. This session will review pseudoscience, the dark side of marketing, and how to be an informed consumer and producer of information related to our field shared on social media and other online resources. This session will help learners better apply evidence-based practice.
Learning Outcomes:
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
Time-Ordered Agenda:
10 minutes: The Good: Benefits of social media as a speech-language pathologist (SLP)
15 minutes: The Bad: Pseudoscience and speech-language pathology
10 minutes: The Ugly: Examples of “dark” marketing strategies
15 minutes: How to be an informed consumer and uphold ethical values as a producer
10 minutes: SLP “influencers” and how to determine credibility
One Hour: Live Chat (October 25, 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Level of Learning: Intermediate
Speaker Biographies and Disclosures
Brianna Miluk, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, is a speech language pathologist in Greenville, South Carolina. She is also an instructor for Pennsylvania Western University. Bri strives to provide neurodiversity-affirming care in a family centered manner with a side of laughs. She enjoys managing the instagram @pediatricfeedingslp and advocating for evidence based practice.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is a salaried employee of Pediatric Feeding Therapy, LLC, Earthshine Speech and Language and Pennsylvania Western University.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter is co-founder and president of Pediatric Feeding Disorders Foundation. She is also the creator and manager of pediatricfeedingslp Instagram page and content. She also serves on the board of the South Carolina Speech-Language-Hearing Association as vice president of clinical and professional affairs. She serves on the conference committee and as a continuing education consultant for Feeding Matters.
Session 4
Presented by Craig Coleman, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-F, ASHA-F
(Live Chat – October 25, 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Abstract:
This session will focus on leadership strategies and styles for both new and experienced leaders within the field. Leadership will be discussed in the context of the needs of current and future professionals, with specific focus on helping participants find leadership experiences in their professional settings. Strategies and concepts will be discussed to help participants make an impact on current advocacy and legislative issues in the field.
Learner Outcomes:
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
Time-Ordered Agenda (one-hour pre-recorded session with live Q&A chat session):
15 minutes: Introduction to leadership: what makes a good leader
15 minutes: Leadership needs in 2022 and beyond
15 Minutes: How to practice being a leader every day
15 Minutes: Examples of leadership in action
One Hour: Live Chat (October 25, 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Level of Learning: Intermediate
Speaker Biographies and Disclosures
Craig Coleman, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-F, ASHA-F, is associate dean of the College of Health Sciences at Pennsylvania Western University. Craig is also the current vice president of planning for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and a board-certified specialist in fluency disorders.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is a salaried employee of PennWest University and will be referencing his place of employment during his presentation.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter is on the ASHA Board.
Session 5
Presented by Angie Armbrust, MPA
(Live Chat – October 27, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
Abstract:
Policy and political advocacy is overwhelming to many yet is an effective tool for practitioners to use. An understanding of the government structure, navigation of key resources and the basics of reading a bill prove valuable in professional advocacy. In addition, it’s important to have strategies to optimize conversations with legislators and understand the role in political advocacy. This session will not only provide participants with knowledge in these areas but prepare the participants for success in this area of advocacy.
Learner Outcomes:
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
Time-Ordered Agenda: (one-hour pre-recorded session with live Q&A chat session):
15 minutes: Basic legislative processes
15 minutes: Impact of legislation on field-specific issues
15 minutes: Overview of how to contact legislators and discuss important issues
15 minutes: Accessing and utilizing resources for professional advocacy
One hour: Live discussion about legislative issues and advocacy in action in the (October 27 at 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
Level of Learning: Intermediate
Speaker Biographies and Disclosures
Angie Armbrust, MPA, is a government relations professional with over 18 years of experience in Harrisburg. Her duties include interaction with legislative and administrative officials in areas such as health care policy, economic development and tax policies, transportation issues and procurement. Angie monitors regulatory developments, state contracts, and other state programs and communicates these items to clients on a regular basis.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is the PSHA lobbyist and is paid for this role by her employer the McNees Winter Group.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Session 6
Presented by Kristen West, MA, CCC-SLP and Susan Snyder, AuD, CCC-A
(Live Chat – October 27 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Abstract:
This session will discuss why the ASHA Committee of Ambassadors (CoA) was created and what current public policy agenda that ASHA and CoA are addressing. They range from schools issues, health care issues and professional practice/workforce issues to patient, client and student issues. Additionally, we will talk about how individuals can get involved and advocate at the grassroots levels.
Learner Outcomes:
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
Time-Ordered Agenda:
20 minutes: What is the Committee of Ambassadors?
20 minutes: What are the current public policy agenda that ASHA and CoA are addressing?
20 minutes: How do your ASHA dues help you advocate?
One Hour: Live Chat (October 27 at 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Level of Learning: Introductory
Speaker Biographies and Disclosures
Kristen M. West, MA, CCC-SLP, is an assistant professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Pennsylvania Western University-Edinboro (Penn West). In addition, she is a doctoral candidate pursuing her doctorate in education at Slippery Rock University. Clinically, Kristen has experience in a variety of pediatric settings including early intervention, pediatric acute care, outpatient and school-based services. Prior to joining Penn West, she helped establish a public school safe feeding program and served as a safe feeding consultant for the same educational agency. Currently, Kristen serves as the vice president of pediatric affairs for Dysphagia Outreach Project. She is a member of the ASHA Committee of Ambassadors and PSHA. She volunteers for the ASHA Convention Committee and Feeding Matters. She is also a member of SIG-13. Kristen has presented at the local, state and national levels on the topic of pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders and is passionate about advocating for feeding and swallowing services for children and their families across the continuum of care.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter is a salaried employee of Penn West University – Edinboro.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter is a volunteer with ASHA Committee of Ambassadors, Feeding Matters, ASHA Conference Committee and Dysphagia Outreach Project, for which she is also a member of the board.
Susan Snyder, AuD, CCC-A, has been a clinical audiologist for 30 years and has worked in various settings such as; ear, nose and throat clinics, children’s rehab facilities, preschool, and elementary schools. Dr. Snyder is currently the Pennsylvania Audiology ambassador for ASHA’s Committee of Ambassadors (CoA). Previously, Dr. Snyder served as vice president for professional practices- audiology/education of individuals who are deaf/hard of hearing for Pennsylvania Speech and Hearing Association (PSHA) for two terms. She has been a clinical instructor of audiology for the University of Pittsburgh, University of Arizona and now clinical assistant professor at Duquesne University. Dr. Snyder has prior experience with hearing aids and cochlear implants and rehabilitative audiology. Currently she provides evaluations and therapy for children and adults with central auditory processing disorders and auditory training/aural rehabilitation for hearing impaired and cochlear implant children and adults.
Financial Disclosure: Presenter has no financial relationships to disclose.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Presenter has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Session 7
Facilitated by Louise Keegan, PhD, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS
One Hour Live Event
October 27, 2022, 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Abstract:
This session will provide an overview of the advocacy process at the state level. The issues and aspects of legislation PSHA has been involved will be outlined, as will the avenues and opportunities to engage in advocacy, connect with legislators and participate in advancing our professions in the state.
Learner Outcomes:
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
Time-Ordered Agenda:
5 minutes: Introductions
20 minutes: Overview of current issues relevant to constituents of Pennsylvania
20 minutes: Overview of the legislative process (with legislator)
15 minutes: Questions & Answers
Level of Learning: Introductory
Speaker Biographies and Disclosures
Louise Keegan, PhD, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS, is currently the president of the Pennsylvania Speech- Language-Hearing Association (PSHA). At Moravian University she serves as the Associate Dean of Rehabilitation Sciences and Associate Professor of Speech-Language Pathology. She also provides per diem SLP coverage for St Luke’s University Healthcare Network.
Financial Disclosure: Facilitator has no financial relationships to disclose.
Nonfinancial Disclosure: Facilitator is the president of the PSHA Executive Board.
The ethics session (Session 1) – Ethics to Defend Person-Centered Care is offered separately for 0.1 ASHA CEUs (intermediate level)