The Role of the Speech-Language Pathologist when Working with Clients Who are Transgender: A Guide of Gender Identity and Cultural Competency

Author

Brett Welch, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

5-2017

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Communication Sciences and Disorders

First Advisor

Dr. Theresa Mata-Pistokache

Second Advisor

Dr. Ruth Crutchfield

Third Advisor

Dr. Rachel Schmitz

Abstract

It is within the scope of practice of a speech-language pathologist to work with a client who is transgender for voice. However, regardless of the setting, a speech-language pathologist is likely to encounter a person who is transgender on their caseload. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association mandates that all of its members be culturally competent when working with clients from different cultural backgrounds, including those from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community.

This thesis pulls from sociological, linguistic, and queer theory literature to provide an in-depth understanding of identity, gender, and transgender identity formation. With this nuanced understanding of these topics, the thesis explores the practical implications to cultural competency, and voice and communication therapy. Additionally, this thesis reviews current topics for debate in Gender Spectrum Voice and Communication therapy.

Comments

Copyright 2017 Brett Welch. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/role-speech-language-pathologist-when-working/docview/1938659559/se-2

Recommended Citation

Welch, Brett, "The Role of the Speech-Language Pathologist when Working with Clients Who are Transgender: A Guide of Gender Identity and Cultural Competency" (2017). Theses and Dissertations. 149.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/149