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• This is an in-person course held at Shirley Ryan ±©×ߺÚÁÏ
• Early Bird Rate Through March 19, 2026

DESCRIPTION
Aphasia affects approximately one-third of individuals who experience a stroke. It can also result from other neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), brain tumors, infections, dementia, or other neurodegenerative diseases. The assessment and treatment of aphasia involves a complex interplay of factors, and no single intervention is appropriate for all individuals. Successful aphasia rehabilitation requires a personalized, evidence-based approach that considers the unique needs, goals and communication environments of each individual.

This interactive in-person course equips speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with a comprehensive framework for clinical decision-making in aphasia rehabilitation, centered on the principles of intensity, saliency and specificity. Participants will explore a wide range of evidence-based aphasia treatments, with detailed examples to enhance their clinical toolbox. Key components of the course include strategies for selecting individualized interventions, a review of current evidence and practices in Communication Partner Training (CPT), with program examples and implementation guidance, insights into texting behaviors of people with aphasia, including barriers, assessment tools and support strategies. Application of concepts through in-depth case studies for real-world clinical planning will progress throughout the course. A live panel with individuals with aphasia and their care partners will highlight lived experiences, challenges and strategies for life participation. Finally, group brainstorming will aid clinicians with confidence to improve access to appropriate aphasia interventions and ensure the long-term viability of aphasia support groups. By the end of this course, SLPs will be better prepared to deliver personalized, evidence-based services that support meaningful communication and life engagement for individuals with aphasia.

DATES AND LOCATION
This an in-person course that will be held at Shirley Ryan ±©×ߺÚÁÏ, 355 East Erie Street, Chicago IL, 60611 on May 14th & 15th, 2026. For a list of available lodging options near the hospital, please click HERE.

COURSE CHAIR
Leora R. Cherney, PhD, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS

AUDIENCE
Speech-Language Pathologists.

LEARNER OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to: 

1. Describe impairment, patient-centered and intervention factors using a clinical decision-making framework for treating individuals with aphasia.
2. List at least 10 commonly used, evidence-based treatments for people with aphasia.
3. Apply in your practice key concepts and current evidence related to communication partner training rationale, implementation and outcomes.
4. Analyze advances in aphasia research to incorporate into current clinical practice to provide optimal service delivery.
5. Demonstrate use of tools for evaluating technology usage and texting abilities of people with aphasia.
6. Apply person-centered goals written with the Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound (SMART) goal approach for evidence-based aphasia treatments.
7. Implement into your practice three skills, strategies or supports that promote successful life participation for people with aphasia.

SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION
To successfully complete this course, participants will need to attend the live activity, complete all self-study work, attest to your attendance and complete an evaluation at the conclusion of the course through the Academy Learning Portal. Self-study work will be available on April 16, 2026. All course work, including self-study work and course feedback evaluation, must be completed by May 29, 2026. Learners will have access to the course materials for review until August 27, 2026.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT