Embedding Aphasia-Modified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Script Training for Primary Progressive Aphasia: A...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Psychology

Background:

• Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a neurodegenerative condition affecting language.
• The nonfluent/agrammatic variant of PPA presents unique communication challenges.
• Integrating psychosocial support with speech therapy may enhance treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and benefits of a combined speech-language and counseling intervention for nonfluent/agrammatic PPA.
• To evaluate the impact of modified script training and aphasia-modified cognitive behavioral therapy.
• To explore changes in psychosocial and communicative functioning.

Main Methods:

• A single-case experimental design with a multiple baseline across scripts was employed.
• Modified script training paired with aphasia-modified cognitive behavioral therapy was administered.
• Mixed methods, including psychosocial scales and phenomenological interviews, were used.

Main Results:

• The participant successfully completed all treatment phases and maintained high intelligibility for trained scripts up to 12 months post-treatment.
• Outcomes were comparable to a cohort receiving script training alone.
• Significant improvements and stability were observed in psychosocial and communicative functioning, with themes of resilience and agency emerging.

Conclusions:

• Combined script training and aphasia-modified cognitive behavioral therapy is a feasible and effective treatment for nonfluent/agrammatic PPA.
• The intervention demonstrated immediate and sustained benefits for both speech-language production and psychosocial well-being.
• This study provides initial evidence for integrating counseling into speech-language treatment for PPA.