CSD students lead support group for stroke survivors

This spring the program is being run by students Reagan VanTeeling, Maggie Gadbois, Abi Jones and Zach Richmond.

The four students are leading two groups of clients in the Let’s Talk Again communication program for stroke survivors with aphasia, the loss of ability to understand or express speech that is caused by brain damage. The students lead the groups under the supervision of professor G.N. Rangamani and clinical instructor Jodel Page.

During sessions, the students lead roundtable discussions talking about problem solving scenarios, reminiscing on memories, answering hot topic questions, creating lists and reading out loud to one another, Vanteeling said, adding that each week the group has a new theme to talk about from sports, to summer activities and trips.

“We teach a variety of strategies that can be used outside of group therapy,” she said. “We also encourage clients to advocate for themselves when they are having difficult communication in everyday activities.”

Often members of the group like to talk about things they did prior to their stroke and reminisce about the past, Gadbois said.

“Each client has a different experience, and they find comfort and support knowing other individuals experience similar difficulties,” she said.

People recovering from stroke commonly have difficulty finding words, reading and writing and overall verbal expression, and these are the main issues clients sought to work on this year, Vanteeling said.

The members of both groups have made progress with their difficulties this semester. They have become more social and readily participate in activities, and they are using the strategies they’ve learned in group in their everyday lives as needed, she said.

“It’s wonderful working with adults who are so motivated to learn and for us to help them,” Vanteeling said. “Each individual has a unique story and personality that makes therapy fun and interesting. We look forward to working with these clients each week.”

A different group of CSD students leads the group each semester as part of their practicum experience. It is one example of the work CSD students do during their practicum both on campus and off campus.

These programs are one aspect of the several community, adult and child services provided by the CSD department through its Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic in Brown Hall.