We're combining two of the most highly requested topics—Gestalt Language Processing and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)—into one conversation with Farwa Husain of First Phrases. We're answering some key questions about AAC + Gestalt: What do we actually know about integrating gestalts with high-tech AAC systems? What’s missing in the research? How can SLPs move forward confidently on Monday morning without waiting for perfect data? What Gestalt Language Processing really means (and why you can’t “give” a child a gestalt)? What common AAC myths are holding children back—and what to do instead? Is the child “stimming” on AAC devices (spoiler: it’s often exploration-a good thing)? Why focus on relationship-first therapy? How can we model extensively and in a meaningful manner? What are some joyful learning strategies for introducing AAC to Gestalt Language Processors in preschool? Whether you're a seasoned SLP or just getting started, this episode is packed with actionable insights and evidence-informed best practices for Monday morning therapy with autistic preschoolers.

Guest Bio: Farwa Husain is a specialist in Gestalt Language Processing and AAC integration. Follow her on Instagram @firstphrasesofficial and learn more at www.firstphrases.com.

Roll up your sleeves and join the SIS Membership today! Get ready to implement what you hear on the podcast with done-for-you, ready-to-use literacy, music, and movement-based activities that treat the whole child. The SIS Membership is your go-to toolbox for engaging, evidence-based, educationally rich, neurodiversity-affirming therapy activities that treat the whole child in preschool and elementary school settings. Get AAC support, weekly movement activities, visuals, behavior supports, AAC strategies, Google Slides Decks, and more—all aligned with best practices discussed in today’s episode. I look forward to seeing you at the SIS Membership drawing board. Join now at www.kellyvess.com/sis

Is the way you’re working… actually working?
In this candid and empowering episode of The Preschool SLP, I sit down with the SLP Happy Hour host, Sarah Lockhart, to talk about what no one tells you in grad school: the path to sustainability as an SLP is rarely linear.

Together, we unpack what it really takes to thrive in this field—from navigating burnout to rebuilding self-trust, shifting careers, and defining success on your own terms. Whether you’re in public schools, private practice, teletherapy, or contracting, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.

What You'll Learn:

• The hidden costs of perfectionism and overworking
• When private practice becomes unsustainable
• The real pros and cons of contracting, teletherapy, and salaried school positions
• How to build a fulfilling SLP career through self-trust and clinical intuition
• Why working smarter (not harder) is the key to staying in this field long term

If this episode hit home, and you’re craving less prep and more purpose in your therapy sessions, then it’s time to join the SIS Membership.

Inside SIS, you’ll get:

✅ Weekly ready-to-go, research-backed therapy materials

✅ Tools like the Behavior Flip Cards and Progress Diplomas featured in this episode

✅ Multimodal strategies that support the whole child

✅ A system that protects your energy so you can focus on what matters: being present

Join now and start working smarter today: www.kellyvess.com/sis

00:00 Introduction and Inspirational Opening
02:33 Sarah's Journey as an SLP
04:16 Challenges and Realities of Private Practice
04:46 The Shift to Telepractice
07:24 Balancing Work and Personal Life
18:12 Top Recovery Tips for SLPs

Get your Behavior Rule Flip Cards + Behavior Diplomas at:
🔗 www.kellyvess.com/behavior

If you work with or have a child with communication impairments, today's episode, dedicated to improving behavior, is a 'must-listen'. I’m pulling back the curtain and giving you access to two powerful tools straight from my SIS Membership that are helping SLPs across the country transform their therapy sessions—without burning out.

Heat up your laminator and get ready for success.

🔧 Tool #1 will help your kiddos develop prosocial communication behaviors.
🔧Tool #2 will support celebrating and generalizing prosocial communication behaviors.

These tools are designed to be effective, easy to implement, and evidence-based for kiddos with communication challenges.

Download both free tools by going to www.kellyvess.com/behavior

Receive ready-to-go, empirically-based, engaging activities (with parent home practice) in your inbox every week by joining the SIS Membership today at www.kellyvess.com/sis

Join SIS and be present this year.