My Perspective on Evidence-Based Practice - Role of a Mentor

I am a strong advocate for evidence-based practice because it ensures that the techniques I use are backed by research, offering a level of confidence and reliability in their effectiveness. Evidence-based practice means a particular method has been rigorously tested, used with a significant number of individuals, and has demonstrated success under controlled conditions with consistent variables. This level of validation is essential in guiding clinical decisions and ensuring that the interventions we provide are both effective and ethical.

That being said, the absence of research backing a specific technique does not necessarily mean it lacks value or efficacy—it simply means there isn’t sufficient evidence yet to support it. In practice, I always prioritize what works best for the individual child. If a technique proves to be effective for a specific child, even without formal research support, I am open to incorporating it into my therapy approach.

This does not mean, however, that speech pathology graduates or professionals should randomly apply techniques without careful consideration . With time, experience, and learning, clinical judgment and intuition are refined, allowing for thoughtful and effective decision-making. It’s critical to combine evidence-based methods with sound clinical judgment to implement strategies that best serve each child’s unique needs.

A good mentor plays a critical role in teaching fresh clinicians the nuances of combining evidence-based practices with clinical intuition—an aspect often absent in textbooks.

While academic training equips clinicians with foundational knowledge and techniques validated by research, it doesn’t always address the real-world application of these principles or the need for adaptability in dynamic therapy settings.

A mentor should guide new clinicians in understanding that evidence-based practice is not just about following protocols; it’s about tailoring those strategies to the individual needs of each child. They should encourage thoughtful decision-making, teaching how to balance research findings with clinical observations and how to trust emerging intuition over time.

Through hands-on training, open discussions, and constructive feedback, a mentor can help fresh clinicians navigate situations where evidence may be limited or unavailable, empowering them to make informed and confident choices. This mentorship ensures that new clinicians develop the judgment and adaptability needed to provide the best outcomes for their clients—skills that no book alone can teach.

For me,

the optimal approach lies in blending evidence-based practices with personalised strategies informed by real-world experience.

This balance allows for truly effective and meaningful therapy outcomes.