SLP: Kristen Powell

Today for a Teacher Interview I have Speech and Language Pathologist, Kristen Powell from kpowellslp on Instagram. Kristen is passionate about AAC, augmentative and alternative communication. She shares her information and passion at school and through her private practice, Creative Communication. This is Kristen’s interview:

1. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I always wanted to work in a flower shop and make bouquets. I remember everyone in the florist shop was so nice and they were always in a good mood.

2. Is there a moment that sticks out to you that you remember from school with a teacher you had growing up?

My 4th grade teacher got married and had our entire class walk in her wedding. It was really fun.

3. How long have you been teaching, what country/state do you teach in, what do you teach, and what did it take for you to get there?

I started my career in 2006. At that time, I was working on my Masters and working on an emergency credential. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Speech Pathology from Northern Arizona University in 2009.

I went through their summers only masters program. This unique program allowed me to continue working in the schools during the school year and in the summer travel to Flagstaff, AZ where I took classes.

The entire program was four years, with the last year being my externship at a hospital here in southern California. You can find more information on the summers track here .

I have always worked in California although teletherapy has opened the possibility to work in other states as long as I'm licensed in that state.

4. What is your go-to tool you use in the classroom and why?

Music! Music just puts everyone in a relaxed and positive state of mind. I love giving my client the option of what music they'd like to hear.

There's a lot of language functions that you can target as well while working with music.

5. Every teacher has something they are passionate about changing in education, what do you hope to change as a teacher?

I hope to educate school staff that EVERYONE has the right and ability to communicate however they want, whenever they want, and wherever they want.

6. I see that AAC is really important to you, what is a simple way a teacher could start to implement AAC without it becoming overwhelming?

My number one tip is to have AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) out and available. Communication happens all day long. Having a communication device out and available makes it less likely that you'll miss those opportunities to model words throughout the day.

7. Any advice for a new SLP you wish you had known?

It's okay to not know everything about speech and language! Give yourself grace and know that it's completely normal to say "I'm not sure, let me get back to you."

8. What has been the most challenging aspect of being an SLP?

Scheduling! I always wish there was more time to spend with my clients, teachers, and caregivers.

9. A lot of people have been saying they hope things start to change in education since the Pandemic, do you think anything will change from it?

I hope our administrators begin to see the connection between learning and mental health. Our school district had Wellness Wednesdays that gave students the day off on Wednesdays. I thought it was brilliant.

10. Last but not least, where do you see yourself in ten years?

Hopefully still spreading awareness about AAC through my private practice and traveling.

Thanks for the interview Kristen!

Happy Teaching Everyone!