Clinicians' Experiences and Attitudes Related to the Provision of LSCT and SPEAKOUT! ®

Elise Adland

Date of Submission

Spring 2024

Document Type

Closed Research Project

Degree Name

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Department

Speech-Language Pathology

First Advisor

Maria Centeno-Vazquez, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S

Abstract

This qualitative study explored clinicians' experiences and attitudes toward providing LSVT (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) and SPEAK OUT!® therapies to patients. Through semi-structured interviews, the research aimed to uncover Speech-Language Pathologists' (SLPs) attitudes, subjective experiences, and perceived knowledge and skill levels. It sought to highlight success stories, challenges clients faced, and clinicians' perceptions of the similarities and differences between LSVT and SPEAK OUT!®, including any struggles encountered with these treatments. The study hypothesized that clinicians would favor SPEAK OUT!® based on their demographic location and available funding. This research underscored the importance of evidence-based studies in enhancing clinicians' abilities to relate to and effectively treat their patients, advocating for firsthand insights into using LSVT or SPEAK OUT!®. By interviewing clinicians who used these treatment tools, the study aimed to determine the preferable option for patient care. The research questions addressed the relative effectiveness of LSVT and SPEAK OUT!® and explored clinicians' challenges in deeming these treatments effective for their patients, particularly in Parkinson's Disease (PD) voice therapy, where SPEAK OUT!®'s higher funding levels might have influenced treatment preference. The study aimed to address three key research questions concerning the perceptions and challenges encountered by clinicians when utilizing LSVT and SPEAK OUT!® for treating speech and voice disorders. The first question explored whether clinicians perceived LSVT to be more effective than SPEAK OUT!®. Findings indicated a varied perspective among clinicians. While some perceived LSVT as more effective due to its structured approach, others favored SPEAK OUT!® for its flexibility and patient-friendly protocols. Participant #1, for instance, noted the ability to tailor protocols in SPEAK OUT!® to better suit individual patient needs, suggesting a perceived advantage over LSVT. The second question investigated whether both treatments were considered equally effective. Responses suggested that effectiveness perceptions varied among clinicians, with some considering both treatments equally effective, while others favored one over the other based on factors such as patient preference and treatment adaptability. Participant #4 highlighted that the majority of their clients preferred the flexibility offered by SPEAK OUT!®, suggesting that effectiveness perceptions might have been influenced by patient feedback and treatment flexibility. The third question delved into the challenges encountered by clinicians when implementing LSVT or SPEAK OUT!® with their patients. Challenges included uncertainties regarding patient response to treatment intensity, as well as the need to balance treatment intensity with patient preferences and collaboration. Participant #3, for instance, expressed concerns about patient response to the intensity of LSVT sessions, highlighting the importance of considering patient preferences and collaboration in treatment decisions. Overall, the study revealed a nuanced understanding of clinicians' perceptions and challenges associated with implementing LSVT and SPEAK OUT!® for speech and voice disorders, emphasizing the need for individualized treatment approaches tailored to patient needs and preferences.

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