Reflections on speech-language therapists' talk: implications for clinical practice and education

Background: Research into the practices of speech-language therapists in clinical sessions is beginning to identify the way communication in clinical interactions both facilitates and potentially impedes the achievement of therapy goals. Aims: This target article aims to raise the issues that arise from critical reflections on the communication of speech-language therapists for both clinical practice and clinical education of future speech-language therapists. Methods & Procedures: The paper reviews the past and current literature into the communication of speech-language therapists with their clients and provide examples drawn from the authors' own empirical research. Outcomes & Results: It is argued that one cannot assume that the current rhetoric regarding collaborative practice matches what is currently done in clinical work. Conclusions: This paper calls attention to the need to evaluate critically the processes and nature of acculturation that occurs during the first stages of professional development as a student speech-language therapist through to the ongoing development of professional practice.