The Communication Sciences and Disorders Program recently hosted free community voice screenings at the U of A Speech and Hearing Clinic to raise awareness of voice disorders and provide hands-on clinical training for the program's graduate students.

Clinic Director Jessica Danley developed and led the week-long screening program through her graduate course, Voice and Resonance Disorders. "Early detection of poor vocal habits can minimize symptoms and reduce the risk of developing chronic injury," Danley shared. "Launching this screening program allowed our graduate students to engage with the community and develop essential clinical skills needed in their future careers. It also allowed the public to learn more about our voice services and walk away with accessible tips for keeping their voices happy and healthy."

Voice Screening Program

Voice screenings offer a quick opportunity to help determine whether a complete behavioral voice evaluation is recommended based on a person's general symptoms and complaints. Over 40 faculty, staff, students and community members participated in the screening program. Participants were administered questionnaires, and their voice qualities were screened using clinical rating scales. Under the supervision of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, graduate student clinicians collected results and participated in debrief sessions with the course instructor to interpret and discuss findings. General vocal wellness tips were also provided to participants to help guide them toward healthier vocal habits.  

Student Insights and Takeaways

Once the screening program concluded, students shared their feedback on the experience.

One graduate student shared, "The voice screening program was a helpful addition to the Voice and Resonance Disorders course. Having the opportunity to complete a screening in the community allowed me to practice my clinical and professional skills in a safe setting. It also helped me apply my knowledge of voice screening tools in a real-life situation. I am grateful for this opportunity, and I think it would be a great addition to other courses!"

Another graduate student shared, "Participating in the University of Arkansas Speech and Hearing Clinic's voice screening program reinforced and promoted the content I had previously learned in my Voice and Resonance Disorders course. I enjoyed transitioning from a classroom student to a direct service provider, screening individuals who presented with similar concerns I had learned about in class. This rewarding experience enhanced my clinical knowledge of a voice evaluation process."

Speech-Language Pathology and Voice Disorders

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are allied health professionals trained to evaluate and help manage communication challenges, including voice issues. Voice problems often result from vocal overuse, misuse, illness and stress. Common complaints include vocal fatigue, hoarseness and loss of pitch range. Some issues are resolved within a few days with minimal intervention, while others are chronic and benefit from a therapeutic plan.

Clinic Open for New Voice Referrals

The U of A Speech and Hearing Clinic continues to offer services for individuals who may have missed the screening event or are concerned about their voice. The clinic provides free virtual 15-minute consultations and accepts referrals for comprehensive voice assessment.   

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call the clinic at (479) 575-4509.