Episode #275: AAC, AI and Speech Pathology with Dr. Nerissa Hall & Dr. Michelle Boisvert

Ever feel intimidated by AAC or unsure how AI fits into your clinical work?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nerissa Hall and Dr. Michelle Boisvert to talk about two topics that can feel overwhelming but are full of possibility. We explore how AAC is not about waiting for prerequisites, but about giving individuals access to meaningful, independent communication. I share my own experience of feeling intimidated at first, and we break down simple, practical ways to get started that actually feel doable and even fun.

We also dive into AI in speech pathology, and this conversation gave me so much clarity. We talk about how AI can help us “offload” tasks like creating materials, while still keeping our clinical judgment front and center. We discuss where AI fits, where it doesn’t, and how to use it ethically and thoughtfully in your everyday work. If you’ve been curious but hesitant, this episode will help you take that first step with confidence.

#autism #speechtherapy

Today’s Guest:

Dr. Nerissa Hall, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-AAC is a speech-language pathologist and AAC specialist focused on complex communication needs, interdisciplinary implementation, and the integration of innovative technology for individuals, caregivers, and teams in the context of service provision.

She focuses on bridging theory, clinical reasoning, and practical application, particularly in the ethical and strategic use of technology to support both clients and clinicians.

Dr. Michelle Boisvert, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, researcher, innovator, developer, and author whose work focuses on innovative and strategic use of mainstream and emerging technology in practice, telepractice, and ethical innovation in speech-language pathology. She has published and presented extensively on emerging technologies and is committed to helping clinicians integrate tools in ways that enhance, not replace, clinical expertise.

What’s Inside: