English Language Learners

Clients with foreign accents do not have a communication disorder. The accent related services are elective, and the clients are usually self-referred because they want to improve their speech intelligibility or modify their accent in order to communicate more effectively. This is also true for native English-speaking clients with regional accents or dialects.

At the University of Cincinnati's Speech and Hearing Clinic, English as a Second Language (ESL) and Accent Modification services are provided by graduate students under the direct supervision of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, it is within the scope of practice for speech-language pathologists to provide accent related services for clients who have learned English as a second language, to help them refine their understanding and usage of the English language. This includes evaluation and training for the following:

• accent modification
• higher level vocabulary (including words with multiple meanings)
• syntax (grammar, word & sentence structure)
• figurative language
• pragmatic language (cultural social skills)
• reading comprehension
• written expressions

Participants can also request assistance with specific areas, such as interviewing and vocabulary related to their field of study.

The scope of practice for speech-language pathologists does not include the following: basic teaching of the English language; professional translation or interpretation. For clients who require these basic services, referral sources can be provided.

Appointments can be scheduled during Clinic hours.

UC Speech and Hearing Clinic

Initial intake/evaluation is $80, sixty minute therapy sessions are $65. Discounts are available to UC faculty, staff, and students.