title: Collaboration between neuropsychologists and speech-language pathologists in rehabilitation settings.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to understand the barriers and facilitators of communication and collaboration between speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and neuropsychologists (NPs) in rehabilitation settings.
  
  
  METHODS
  Focus groups were held at 3 rehabilitation hospitals. Participants were a convenience sample and were considered representatives of acquired brain injury rehabilitation teams that include SLPs and NPs. There were a total of 28 SLPs and 10 NPs in the sample. The study used a semistructured interview guide for the focus group discussions, using questions centered on major areas known to be related to interdisciplinary collaboration. Written notes and audio recordings were analyzed for recurring and strongly stated themes.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Consistent themes emerged across focus groups, which included (1) structure of collaboration, (2) perceived roles of NPs and SLPs in assessment and intervention, (3) similarities and differences in training and philosophic perspectives, (4) barriers to successful collaboration, and (5) facilitators of collaboration.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The SLPs and NPs valued the contributions of both professions in the management of patients with acquired brain injuries. Effective collaboration appeared to be influenced by several factors and is discussed. It was evident that effective communication was a key and powerful element in successful collaboration.
authors.affiliation: Department of Behavioral Medicine, Brooks Rehabilitation Center, Jacksonville, FL 32216, USA. Jeffrey.wertheimer@brookshealth.org
authors.forename: Jeffrey C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Wertheimer
authors.forename: Tresa M
authors.initials: TM
authors.lastname: Roebuck-Spencer
authors.forename: Fofi
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Constantinidou
authors.forename: Lyn
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Turkstra
authors.forename: Marykay
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Pavol
authors.forename: Diane
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Paul
mesh_terms: D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003142:Communication; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007349:Insurance, Health, Reimbursement; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D009484:Neuropsychology; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D013066:Speech-Language Pathology