The confidence, competence, and knowledge of speech-language pathologists in the assessment and treatment of patients with psychotic disorder

Due to the limited research of speech language pathologists’ (SLP) working with patients with psychotic disorders, the purpose of this study was twofold. The first purpose was to investigate currently practicing SLPs’ confidence, competence, and knowledge when assessing and treating communication and swallowing disorders in these patients. The second purpose of this study was to highlight the importance and need to further research, provide more resources, and educate SLPs in this scope of practice. The present study utilized a 26 item survey, completed by 29 certified and licensed SLPs. This paper sought to identify correlations between an SLP’s number of years of experience he or she has and their confidence levels when assessing and treating patients with psychotic disorders. Results of a correlational analyses showed that there was a weak correlation between the number of years of experience an SLP has and his or her confidence levels in identifying symptoms related to communication. There was also no statistical significance between the number of years of experience of an SLP and assessing and diagnosing communication impairments in patients with psychotic disorders. This study also investigated correlations between an SLP’s number of training courses taken specific to patients with psychotic disorders and their confidence levels when assessing and treating these patients. Results revealed a strong positive correlation regarding the number of formal training courses specific to patients with psychotic disorders and the participant’s level of confidence in accurately identifying symptoms related to speech and communication impairments. Given the paucity of research available for practicing SLPs in the assessment and treatment of patients with psychotic disorders, this study’s results support the need for more research and education of SLPs serving this population