In my first year at a pediatric clinic, I was assigned a 4‑year‑old client diagnosed with autism who had minimal spoken language.

I needed to conduct a comprehensive speech‑language assessment to determine baseline abilities and set realistic goals.

I used a combination of play‑based observation, the Preschool Language Scale, and parent‑report questionnaires. I also collaborated with the occupational therapist to observe the child in a sensory‑rich environment.

The assessment identified receptive language strengths and expressive deficits, allowing us to create a targeted intervention plan that improved the child's functional communication by 30% over six months.

A 7‑year‑old client with a phonological disorder was not meeting the expected milestones after three months of traditional articulation drills.

I needed to reassess the plan and introduce a more engaging approach to stimulate progress.

I reviewed the client's data, consulted the latest research on motor‑learning principles, and introduced a game‑based therapy using tablet apps that provided immediate visual feedback. I documented the changes in the EMR and set new short‑term goals.

Within six weeks, the client’s correct sound production increased from 45% to 70%, and the family reported higher motivation during home practice.

During a case conference, a colleague asked for clarification on distinguishing phonological from articulation disorders for a new client.

Provide a concise, clinically accurate explanation and its implications for therapy.

I explained that phonological disorders involve patterns of sound errors reflecting underlying rule‑based processes, whereas speech sound disorders (articulation) are isolated errors of sound production. I highlighted that phonological disorders require pattern‑based interventions targeting rule acquisition, while articulation disorders focus on motoric placement and shaping of individual sounds.

The team gained a clear understanding, leading to a coordinated treatment plan that addressed the client’s pattern errors first, resulting in a 25% reduction in error frequency after two months.

I was assigned a bilingual Spanish‑English family whose child needed early intervention services.

Provide culturally responsive assessment and therapy while respecting family preferences.

I used bilingual assessment tools, consulted a certified interpreter for accurate communication, and incorporated the family’s cultural values by integrating familiar songs and stories into therapy. I also educated the parents on strategies they could use at home in both languages and documented all adaptations in the client’s record.

The family reported increased confidence in supporting their child, and the child’s expressive language scores improved by 15% over three months.

During a monthly review, a mother expressed frustration that her 5‑year‑old’s speech had not improved as expected.

Address her concerns, provide reassurance, and adjust the plan if needed.

I listened actively, validated her feelings, reviewed the child’s data with her, and explained the typical variability in speech development. I proposed a brief reassessment, introduced a new home‑practice activity, and documented the discussion and revised goals in the EMR.

The parent felt heard and agreed to the updated plan; subsequent sessions showed a 10% increase in target sound accuracy.

In my clinic, a fellow speech therapist frequently submitted session notes late, risking claim denials.

Address the issue to protect client services and maintain team standards without damaging the working relationship.

I first confirmed the pattern by reviewing the schedule, then approached the colleague privately, expressing concern and offering to share time‑management tips I use. I also suggested we discuss the issue with our supervisor to explore workflow improvements. I followed up with the supervisor to ensure the matter was documented and monitored.

The colleague adopted a new note‑taking routine, documentation compliance improved to 100%, and billing errors were eliminated, preserving revenue for the clinic.