Breakdowns in behaviour and communication: Tools from behaviour therapy and speech-language pathology to support clients with ABI (May 28, 2024)

Presented by: Stacey Levine, BA(Psych) and Meagan Buttle, M.Sc.A, SLP(C), Reg CASLPO  

Brain injury survivors often experience cognitive-communication and behaviour challenges that can impact their occupational participation and rehabilitation progress (e.g., Devi et al., 2020; Klepo et al., 2022). In acquired brain injury (ABI) rehabilitation, occupational therapists are often one of the first providers on a multidisciplinary team, and their role is multifaceted: assessment, therapy, client and family education, and management of care pathways and referrals. A dynamic, collaborative, and client-focused approach successfully supports clients in their rehabilitation participation and goals (e.g., Christensen et al., 2023). Tools from interdisciplinary domains (speech-language pathology and behaviour therapy) can support occupational therapy professionals in their practice with ABI survivors. 

 This webinar will explore collaborative and functional approaches to support dysregulation and communication breakdowns, and present a toolkit that occupational therapy professionals can incorporate with clients and families in their own practice and scope. The themes of regulation, communication, and collaboration will be explored in relation to acquired brain injury and rehabilitative practices, both in interdisciplinary teams and occupational therapy services. Using case studies, evidence-based best-practice guidance and clinical experience, the presenters will outline practical strategies and approaches to support interaction, therapy sessions, and communication success. Additionally, themes surrounding communication approach / delivery, response to behaviour management, and collaborative team perspectives will be incorporated. Non-traditional approaches and innovation to client’s behaviours, communication, and goal setting will also be discussed. Practical strategies will be shared through case study examples from clients with mild to severe ABI, concurrent conditions (mental health, substance use, chronic pain, spinal cord injury), and other social determinants of health common in ABI populations.

After taking part in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

1. Gain an understanding of the role of speech-language pathology and behaviour therapy in ABI populations, and their collaboration with occupational therapy.
2. Identify themes of regulation, communication, and collaboration in the context of rehabilitation and client profiles.
3. Explore practical strategies for behaviour regulation and communication in clients with cognitive-communication disorders, behaviour challenges, and support for families and care partners.

Level  Intermediate (3-5 years of experience in this specific area of practice

Area of practice Advocacy, Brain injury/Concussion/Spinal Cord, Caregiver/Family, Education, Case Management, Chronic Pain, Cognition, Community, Development/Care/Crisis, Generalist, Insurance, Assessment, Medical-Legal, Services, MVA Rehabilitation, Older Adults, Occupational Therapist Assistant, Return to Work 

Client age group Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old), Older adults (65+ years old)