Perhaps you’ve wondered about bilingual speech and language therapy. Maybe not? That’s OK. This post will briefly introduce some frequently asked questions related to bilingual therapy. We will start to answer some of those questions–please check back regularly and post your questions in the comments section. We’ll try to find the answers.
- MYTH: All bilingual speakers speak Spanish. REALITY: People who are regularly exposed to any other language might be considered bilingual, tri-lingual, etc. As you know, Spanish is not the only other language in the world. Though Spanish is a popular language it is not the most frequently spoken language in the world besides English. Sometimes people assume that we only work with Spanish speakers; however, bilingual SLPs are equipped to address other languages as well. ___________________________________________________________________________
- MYTH: Learning more than one language will confuse the developing child. REALITY: As long as the child’s speaking models, e.g., parents, caregivers, and/or teachers, are clear and consistent with the separation of languages, most children can learn to distinguish the different languages to which they are regularly exposed. __________________________________________________________________________
- MYTH: Bilingual SLPs only work with languages other than English, i.e., bilingual SLPs do not work with those who only speak English. REALITY: A state licensed and ASHA certified speech language pathologist is capable of working with anyone that presents with a communication disorder. An advantage for the bilingual SLP that speaks the patient’s language is that he or she may not need the services of an interpreter. This supports a clear line of communication between patient and clinician. There is less room for important information to get lost in translation. __________________________________________________________________________
- MYTH: Only bilingual SLPs can work with patients who speak other languages. REALITY: An experienced SLP that is well-versed in bilingualism or multi-lingualism can work with patients who speak other languages. An interpreter might be recruited to assist. ___________________________________________________________________________
- MYTH: There is no bilingual therapist available in my area. Now, my child has to receive services in English. REALITY: It is the SLPs responsibility to identify and treat communication disorders. After determining language preference and language proficiency, the SLP must determine the most appropriate model of intervention for the child. Whether the child requires services in English or in a language other than English, it is the responsibility of the SLP to clearly state ___________________________________________________________________________
- MYTH: I am a Spanish speaking SLP. Now I am considered a bilingual SLP. REALITY: Solely speaking another language does not make the SLP a bilingual SLP when speaking of service delivery. ASHA provides a framework for what it is to be considered a bilingual SLP. Other than speaking the language, the SLP must be able to clearly explain clinical information in the target language. In addition, he or she should be familiar with bilingual phenomena to help differentiate a language difference from a language disorder.
As you might infer bilingualism is a heavy, multi-faceted topic that this post has barely addressed. Please visit or call us for more detailed information related to this topic. If you or someone you know needs the services of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, please be sure to discuss your concerns with a physician, a speech-language pathologist, or another qualified provider. You can also find a provider through the ASHA ProFind service or visit us at www.bilingualspeech.org for more information.