#155: What Is Gestalt Language Processing? with Sari Risen

GLP – Gestalt Language Processing, is taking social media by storm. BCBAs and SLPs alike are talking about it… But should it be something we follow and jump into without question? Dually Certified SLP-BCBA Sari Risen joins me to discuss her findings on GLP along with some warnings.

So what is GLP? It is basically a distinction against NLA – Natural Language Acquisition, in which NLA individuals learn by developing single words and increasing over time, whereas GLP individuals have longer and longer utterances and develop single words over time. Sari uses the example of a toddler who says “ohh da do” [meaning open the door] will eventually learn the words open, the, and door but would start with the longer utterance before knowing the words individually.

Sari took Marge Blanc's 15 hour course on the topic and explained the history of GLP when Dr. Ann Peters made this distinction between NLA and GLP in the 70s. While information on Gestalt is available, it is mostly anecdotal, with very few official studies or evidence.

Educate yourself so that you can understand and explain GLP when and if parents ask. Sari and I warn practitioners to think critically about the strategies and theories they use and not to follow something just because of social media.

 #autism #speechtherapy

What’s Inside:

• What is Gestalt Language Processing (GLP)?
• Natural Language Acquisition vs Gestalt Language Processing.
• Should BCBAs be using GLP?
• What information and evidence is available about GLP.

Mentioned In This Episode:
srisen@actionpotentialservices.ca
www.actionpotentialservices.ca
Membership - ABA Speech