Reimagining From Abroad: Speech-Language Pathologists as Interprofessional Partners Supporting Justice-Involved Youth in America

Abstract

Purpose: With application to the United States, this tutorial explores barriers in the American juvenile justice system for justice-involved youth (JIY) with cognitive-communication disorders (CCDs). It outlines models from abroad and reimagines the American juvenile justice system to include speech-language pathologists (SLPs) as interprofessional practice partners. Method: Interprofessional (i.e., criminal justice, speech-language pathology) literature from the United States and overseas is reviewed and summarized to explain the American juvenile justice system, outline areas of concern for youth with CCDs, and describe potential solutions. Results: The application of speech-language pathology services within the juvenile justice system is explained and visually depicted. This framework was informed by intervention models and approaches from international examples. Conclusions: There is an opportunity to embed speech-language pathology services from intake into court action and through disposition for JIY with cognitive-communication impairments. This includes interprofessional education and development, SLPs providing direct intervention, and multidisciplinary screening efforts. Speech-language pathologists as interprofessional advocates and practice partners can improve life chances and outcomes for youth with CCDs in the juvenile justice system.