Gestalt Language Processing and Natural Language Acquisition: Clinical Implications of the Evidence in a Systematic and Meta-Narrative Review of the Literature
9am – 10.30am
There is increasing interest among speech and language therapists (SLTs) in Gestalt Language Processing and Natural Language Acquisition (GLP/NLA) approaches, particularly in relation to echolalia and autism. However, there is currently a lack of strong evidence to support the clinical effectiveness of these approaches. This webinar is intended to support SLTs to broaden their knowledge and understanding of GLP/NLA by exploring the findings from a recent systematic review and meta-narrative review of the literature.
In 2024, a systematic review of the literature on Gestalt Language Processing and Natural Language Acquisition (GLP/NLA) revealed no research evidence describing outcomes arising from implementing GLP/NLA type approaches, in communication, language, or behaviour for children or adults with communication disability. In 2025, a follow-up meta-narrative review of books, chapters, journal articles, and blog posts presenting information about GLP/NLA was conducted to identify any other written publications yielding findings to inform clinical practice.
In this webinar, Professor Bronwyn Hemsley, Head of Speech Pathology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and Dr Lucy Bryant, Senior Lecturer at UTS, will present the findings of the systematic and meta-narrative reviews of GLP/NLA type approaches, and a recent review of the literature on the prevalence of echolalia, will be presented and explained.
Implications for clinicians supporting clients with communication disability and their families, as well as those creating policy and managing, mentoring, and supporting colleagues in their work, will be provided.
The presenters will also cover frequently asked questions about both the review and evidence-based practices recommended to support individuals with communication disability who need or use AAC.
This webinar is open exclusively to RCSLT members. At the request of the presenters it will not be recorded, so attendance is only possible during the live session.
