08/20/2025
Speaking for Themselves:
On August 13, the Concordia Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic’s adult clients with neurological communication disorders gathered to share reflections on their progress over the summer semester. Therapy sessions were led by graduate student clinicians and supervised by the Department of Speech-Language Pathology’s Clinical Instructor Ann Kukowski, with the goal of improving clients’ language capabilities. Family members, faculty, staff, and students were invited to this spirited gathering to hear firsthand from clients about progress, challenges, and plans for the future.
It was a remarkably moving experience punctuated by laughter and tears. Patricia noted about her student clinician, Sydney, “She makes me read all of the time! But, you got to do it.” Arizanah reported that therapy is helping her work on her memory and sharpening her skills to take the GED exam.
These courageous clients also shared insights about how others can effectively communicate with them. Tony said, “You should know that I can understand everything, but people need to be patient when I speak.” Becki mentioned, “I understand best when information is written down.”
It’s clear that these individuals have bonded over their common goal of improving their ability to communicate and advocate for themselves. What’s uncommon, is the deep affection they have for each other and their student clinicians!
