Concussion, TBI, and CTE in Athletes and the Role of SLPs

As awareness of concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) grows, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are increasingly essential in identifying, managing, and rehabilitating athletes affected by these conditions. This presentation will explore SLPs' vital role in the multidisciplinary care of athletes, emphasizing the importance of their expertise in communication and cognition to comprehensive brain health. Covering neurophysiological mechanisms, cumulative trauma risks, and practical strategies, attendees will learn evidence-based approaches to collaborate with athletic staff, develop effective concussion protocols, and advocate for the inclusion of SLPs in brain health initiatives, ultimately promoting long-term athlete wellness.

Explore Course

This course was live Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. ET. Replays are available now through Jan. 31, 2025 11:59pm ET.

This course, Concussion, Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) in Athletes and the Role of SLPs, is designed to empower SLPs in school settings to effectively support students impacted by sports-related head injuries, including concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Participants will explore the neurophysiological impacts of these conditions on children and adolescents, focusing on the unique challenges presented by cognitive-linguistic deficits that may emerge post-injury. Emphasis will be placed on how SLPs can collaborate with school personnel, coaches, and healthcare providers to develop supportive reintegration plans for students returning to the classroom. Participants will gain essential skills to support students’ academic success through individualized therapy, targeting memory, attention, and executive function strategies. Additionally, the course addresses the SLP’s role as an advocate for brain health awareness, including preventive education for students, parents, and school staff. By course end, participants will be equipped with effective assessment tools and strategies to create safe, supportive environments for students with sports-related brain injuries, ensuring that their approach aligns with best practices and licensure standards.

Presenters

Kelli A. Uitenham
CScD, CCC-SLP
Dr. Kelli A. Uitenham, 2024 Northeastern University Heart of Charlotte Award winner for Speech-Language Pathologist of the Year, is a renowned SLP, host of Kandid Konversations with Dr. Kelli, and author of The 25,000 Mark: It's Not Just a Concussion. She leads Serenity Speech Therapy and founded Brain Talk Foundation to raise awareness for neurological health, focusing on concussions, TBI, and CTE. With over a decade of expertise, she provides telehealth in nine states, specializes in adult and geriatric care, and serves as an adjunct professor and speaker on brain health.

Learning Objectives

Identify the neurophysiological mechanisms and long-term impacts of concussions, TBIs, and CTE in athletes.
Describe the essential role of speech-language pathologists in the multidisciplinary management of brain injuries.
Develop practical strategies for integrating SLP expertise into athletic programs, including concussion prevention, early detection, and comprehensive care plans that promote athlete brain health and safety.

Agenda

5 minutes	Introduction & Overview
15 minutes	Understanding Brain Injuries
10 minutes	Case Studies
10 minutes	SLPs’ Role in the Multidisciplinary Care Team
10 minutes	Practical strategies for integrating SLPs/Developing comprehensive, interdisciplinary care plans
10 minutes	Q&A and Discussion

Disclosures

Financial Disclosures:	Dr. Kelli is the owner of Serenity Speech Therapy, PLLC, and of Kensington Academy, LLC. She is also the founder of Brain Talk Foundation, an independent contractor for Great Speech, Inc., a Power of Patients Affiliate and a Cognishine Ambassador.
Non-financial Disclosures:	Dr. Kelli is a member of ASHA and a member of NBASLH.
Content Disclosures:	Dr. Kelli has no additional content information to disclose.

ASHA

This course is offered for .1 ASHA CEUs, Introductory Level, Professional Area