Earlier this month, I attended ASHA in Boston. I have regularly attended ASHA almost every year since I received my CCC. It is an enjoyable experience that allows me to see colleagues, network, see new products, and meet new people. This year was particularly special because it was the first time ASHA was in Boston since I was convention co-chair in 2015. In some ways, it was surreal. I felt odd not running around to various engagements, rehearsing our opening remarks, and the award ceremony. However, it was much more enjoyable as I could attend whatever sessions I wanted to and did not have to attend all the meetings before the convention!
Friends and colleagues often ask why I attend ASHA annually. In the past, I would have answered that attending this large convention was fun, networking was great, the sessions were interesting, and it was exciting to see colleagues I hadn’t seen for a year. This year, however, I approached convention with a different mindset. I didn’t need any more CEs for either ASHA or my state license, so I was very strategic in choosing the courses to attend. I focused on what is new in teletherapy, along with a few child language courses. I didn’t feel the need to be in sessions every hour, which allowed me to engage with other attendees, meet new people, and explore the exhibit hall for new apps and ideas for therapy.
Approaching the ASHA convention this way reduced my stress level and allowed me to enjoy the sessions I did attend. It also permitted me to spend more time engaging with other professionals and to listen to their thoughts on telepractice. I love attending ASHA this way because I can learn where there are sticking points and barriers for other professionals in telepractice. It activates my mind and allows a free flow of ideas that may become potential additions to the platform I am building.
Over the years, fear of change and fear of new, emerging advances in our field can stall us from moving forward and providing high-quality services to our clients. I have seen this happen over the many years I’ve been in practice: clinicians who fear new ideas, new modes of service delivery, or adding a new area of practice. Those who feared change or new ideas tended to lag in practice. Eventually, most people catch up on the new practice or change; however, it may take them longer to adapt, but if we face our fears, we can all assist our profession with moving forward. Attending the ASHA always helps me embrace change to help more clinicians and clients be their best selves.
ASHA reinvigorates me, helps me fall in love with my profession again, and make new connections while strengthening those I already have. Next year, ASHA will be in Seattle. I encourage those of you who have not attended or have never attended to take the leap. You never know who you will meet, or the difference an idea in one session will make to the services you provide. Be adventurous, take a chance, and don’t fear change but embrace it.
I am looking forward to meeting more of you next year at ASHA!
