A survey of LSLS Cert.AVTs who Mentor: Fostering independence to endow the future

Abstract

The authors surveyed 64 Listening and Spoken Language Specialist Certified Auditory-Verbal Therapists (LSLS Cert. AVTs) who mentor professionals seeking certification. Mentors answered questions regarding demographic characteristics, the organization and delivery of mentoring practice, and challenges and solutions faced by mentors. This group of mentors mirrored the larger population of LSLS Cert. AVTs in distribution of professions, work sites, and countries of origin. Respondents averaged more than 8 years of experience. Highest on the list of desirable goals for mentors was the development of mentee independence in the application of auditory-verbal principles, techniques, and case management. Mentors desired guidelines for practice and networking opportunities.