Immersive Workshop on Cultural and Linguistic Diversity for Slp

Costa Rica: Immersive Speech Pathology Study Abroad

Join us July 19-24, 2026, in Costa Rica. Professionals earn 2.0 ASHA CEUs (20 hours) through interactive workshops, visits to community health centers, rainforest and wildlife excursions, and cultural immersion in Costa Rican traditions. Earn a certificate in cultural & linguistic diversity while networking with professional SLPs from around the world. This year we have chosen a renowned eco-resort surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and pristine beaches. This unique setting offers a balance of professional development, cultural immersion, and leisure, with direct access to white-sand beaches and wildlife-rich reserves.

Costa Rica Awaits! Learn From Each Other. Expand Your Global Perspective. Travel With Intention, Return With Purpose.

Per ASHA (2020), developing cultural competence is a dynamic and complex process requiring ongoing self-assessment and continuous expansion of one’s cultural knowledge. It evolves over time, beginning with an understanding of one’s own culture, continuing through interactions with individuals from various cultures, and extending through one’s own lifelong learning. Cultural competence is increasingly important to eliminate long-standing disparities in the health status of people based on racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds.

Cultural humility goes beyond cultural competence. It is a dynamic and lifelong process focusing on self-reflection and personal critique, acknowledging one’s own biases. This program seeks to help professionals grow through an immersive, relevant, and impactful experience.

Coursework is designed to bridge theory and practice, providing evidence-based practical tools that you can immediately put to use in your practice as a speech-language pathologist while broadening your cultural perspectives and experiences. 

Our workshops are packed with video case studies, discussion points, and opportunities for active learning. Below is an outline of the courses. Part of the day will be spent in the classroom focusing on coursework in cultural and linguistic diversity. The rest of the day we will apply information from our coursework with culturally relevant and enriching activities, including the work with our community partners, local schools, and non-profit organizations while learning about local culture, religion, and customs.

This was a great way to meet other professionals and explore various ideas among people in similar situations. I definitely made some friends I'll be keeping in close contact with and would recommend it to others!!!
Belize 2022
Belize 2022SLP
It was a career rejuvenation trip! It was great being around like-minded colleagues for all over the country that are passionate about supporting linguistic diversity and multiculturalism in underserved communities to foster equitable opportunities.
Belize 2022
Belize 2022SLP
Often times being a school-based SLP can feel isolating. You’re not a teacher but you’re helping with students and a lot of times you’re overlooked and no one really understands what you do. And when it comes to treating in areas with diversity it’s just lacking. I am thrilled to take this new information into my new job and create an environment of cultural competence and diversity from the start. It was a deeeeep breath of fresh air to be in a room with people with a common goal and similar passions. And getting to learn about another culture in the process was the cherry on top. I have already text other therapy friends (I was nice enough to include OT/PT) and told them to look into therapy abroad for future trips! I’m already ready for the next one!
Belize 2022
Belize 2022SLP
The Therapy Abroad and Bilinguistics conference in Belize this summer was one of the very best learning experience of my entire career. The information presented was direct, functional and culturally relevant. Ellen and Scott are phenomenal presenters and have changed my approach to therapy and diagnostics. I am excited to implement more curriculum based activities and I feel much more comfortable using the dynamic assessment process. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to expand my professional knowledge and skills. A resounding THANK YOU!
Belize 2022SLP
I am elated to have spent a week with people who seek to ensure that everyone has access to a “seat at the table,” who are able to verbally recognize their inherent societal privileges, and who amplify the voice and experiences of people who are less represented. I feel this belief was reaffirm every day of this trip, in a variety of ways, and with sincerity. My favorite aspect of this experience is definitely the reminder of how much life can be lived in a week.
Belize 2022SLP
The trip was well organized (meals, transportation, lectures, and activities). Therapy abroad staff always made sure that your needs were met. We always had water available which was important bc Belize is extremely humid in the summer. Belize is a safe place to travel and it’s a great place to experience cultural diversity. The locals are super friendly and they make you feel like family. This trip was a unique experience that I’ll carry in heart. I am looking forward to joining another trip to a different country. Thank you Chad for making this possible.
Belize 2022SLP
Can you imagine being able to follow a conversation at a family gathering in which four different languages are being spoken. That could be a possibility for a family in Belize. After attending the sessions offered in Belize through the collaboration of Therapy Abroad and Bilinguistics I would be able to analyze the errors in a student’s speech pattern, (who speaks a language different from mine) determine which sounds should be considered errors and how to prioritize the targets for intervention.
Belize 2022SLP
I have been traveling to speech and language conferences for over 20 years, from the big ASHA conference to small local conferences. I have traveled abroad for some too. None of them compare to this experience from a holistic perspective. This was the best gathering of speech-therapists, considering there were 48 or 49 in attendance. It was almost as if the group was handpicked and put together. Everyone loved being around another, even though most of us were meeting for the first time. Unlike the conferences in the states, I never ate alone a single time!!! People would just invite themselves to the table if you were there, and the table would always grow. Priceless.
Belize 2022SLP
Visiting Belize with Therapy Abroad and Bilinguistics was such a rewarding experience to learn more about evaluating and treating bilingual students and having the opportunity to speak to and collaborate with local teachers. They were eager to learn how to support their students when they don’t have the same advantages and opportunities that we do in the US. This experience was amazing.
Belize 2022SLP
This was such an eye-opening experience! The culture and courses were perfect for the setting. Visiting Barton Creek, the San Antonio women’s collective and talking with other educational professionals at the University of Belize awoke a passion that I forgot I had. I would do it again in a heartbeat and even go back to San Ignacio! I can’t wait to talk to my colleagues at the university I teach at to try to bring this experience to students.
Belize 2022SLP
My experience in Belize was diverse, rich, informative, and a fantastic adventure, and I couldn't think of a better way of earning CEUs. I learned a lot of practical information about evaluating and treating people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, which will support me to be a more effective and confident therapist working with these populations in the future. The presentations, cultural experiences, and professional exchanges all exceeded my expectations. I made wonderful connections with like minded SLPs from all around the country, and fell in love with the country, cultural diversity, and the people of Belize. I would absolutely recommend this experience, and I look forward to traveling and learning with you all again in the future. Thank you!
Belize 2022SLP
Participating in this program is a life changing experience. You return a different person. You are more knowledgeable; you are humbled; you are grateful; you have gained more friends.... you are a better person. Thank you, Therapy Abroad, for allowing me to learn in a way that I will never forget.
Belize 2022SLP

This program is a collaboration between the internationally recognized innovators at Bilinguistics and the award-winning study abroad program facilitators at Therapy Abroad. Speech-language pathologists, university faculty, and graduate SLP students will have an opportunity to travel to the beautiful west coast of Costa Rica and explore new places, cuisines, cultures, ways of living, and approaches to supporting individuals with disabilities. This program offers 20 hours of continuing education for SLPs. This experience is designed to address all of the competencies in cultural and linguistic diversity outlined by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA), and many more competencies that will advance your cultural humility.

Learn More From Our Partners at Bilinguistics

Book Now

Join us in Costa Rica July 19-24, 2026. This experience is open to professional SLPs, SLP Graduate students, friends and family.

** University Faculty can reach out to us for special group pricing. Join other universities that incorporate this content into their summer clinical programs or offer it as a short-term experience for students to learn about cultural & linguistic diversity for Slp. 

Speech Meets Beach. Earn CEU hours where the rainforest meets the ocean. Wouldn’t you rather earn up to 20 hours of CEU, learn, connect, and explore Costa Rica in one unforgettable week?

Attendees will receive a Certificate in Cultural and Linguistic Diversity that covers the information you need to confidently diagnose and treat diverse populations and provides all the CEUs you need for up to a 2-year earning period. Enjoy all that the country has to offer -food, culture, and amazing activities. Here is a snapshot of what we will be doing.

Each morning of this program, attendees will be immersed in an interactive discussion series (see topics below) and each afternoon, there are activities planned for everyone.

Bring your spouse, friends, and family! We have family rooms available and family-friendly afternoon activities planned. Enjoy the week with family and friends or use this week to kick off a longer adventure around.

Click here to register now

Why Costa Rica?

Our goal is that you return to your work re-energized to serve your incredible caseload with fresh tools to understand cultural & linguistic diversity—so you can confidently dismiss more kids who don’t truly have a disorder.

  • Costa Rica is known for its rich Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean heritage alongside Spanish influence. Deepening our understanding of these experiences helps us better connect with the multilingual families we serve.

  • Costa Rica is famous for its pura vida spirit—you’ll experience it through the warmth of its people, colorful festivals, and traditional foods.

  • Rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches—this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to blend professional learning with the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

  • It’s a perfect jumping-off point for more adventure—add extra days to visit Panama, Nicaragua, or explore more of Costa Rica’s breathtaking national parks.

Tenative Itinerary

DAY 1

July 19, 2026

 

Arrival, Check-In, Orientation & Welcome Dinner

  • Arrival to San Jose, Cost Rica
  • Check Into Crocs Hotel, Jaco Beach
  • Welcome to Conference, Overview and Goals
  • Welcome Dinner

DAY 2

July 20, 2026

Difference or Disorder – Speech Success with Speech Sound Disorders

We begin the week by diving into articulation, phonology, and speech sound disorders. You’ll leave this session with strategies to confidently assess and intervene on the correct sounds, regardless of the languages a child speaks.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit a local health clinic or community center to learn about service delivery in Costa Rica. Through conversations with staff and observations of community-based programs, you’ll gain first-hand insight into how cultural and linguistic diversity shapes access to care. This authentic experience highlights the intersection of speech-language pathology, public health, and cultural responsiveness—setting the tone for the rest of the week.

DAY 3

July 21, 2026

Difference or Disorder – Language, Dynamic Assessment

Language assessment and intervention is all about mastering non-standardized and dynamic assessment strategies to confidently diagnose, gauge progress, and identify goals. This day is dedicated to sharpening your skills in evidence-based, culturally responsive language evaluation.

After the workshop, we’ll head out for a boat safari on the Tarcoles River, home to one of the world’s largest crocodile populations. Along the way, local guides will share insights into Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity, from scarlet macaws to iguanas, as we float toward the Pacific and back.

DAY 4

July 22, 2026

Perfecting Referrals, Re-evaluations to Reduce Caseloads

Half of maintaining manageable caseloads comes from knowing when to refer, when to dismiss, and how to streamline evaluations. This workshop introduces modern methods and tools that empower SLPs to make smarter clinical decisions, reduce caseload sizes, and maximize therapy outcomes.

The afternoon is free for you to design your own Costa Rican adventure. Options include surf lessons on Jaco Beach, a canopy zipline tour, exploring boutique shops and cafés in town, or simply unwinding with toes in the sand. Families and guests are encouraged to join in—there’s something for everyone.

DAY 5

July 23, 2026

Literacy-Based Intervention, Curriculum-Based Intervention

On our final workshop day, we bring together everything you’ve learned by focusing on literacy and curriculum-based interventions that accelerate growth across diverse classrooms. You’ll leave with actionable strategies that apply directly to bilingual and multicultural settings.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner by the ocean, complete with Costa Rican music, fresh seafood, and breathtaking views of the sunset over the Pacific. It’s the perfect way to celebrate new friendships, professional growth, and cultural connection.

Program Pricing and What's Included

Pricing & Packages

Choose the package that best fits your travel style and comfort preferences.
All options include:
✅ 5 nights’ accommodations at Croc’s Resort & Casino in Jaco Beach, Costa Rica
✅ Daily breakfast, 3 group lunches, and 2 dinners
✅ All conference sessions, local transportation, and scheduled activities
✅ Airport transfers and on-site Therapy Abroad staff support

🧑‍⚕️ Participant Packages

PackageRoom TypeDescriptionPrice (USD)
Standard ExperienceShared Mountain View RoomEnjoy all conference activities, meals, and shared accommodations with one other participant in a comfortable Mountain View room.$2,500
Ocean ExperienceShared Ocean View RoomUpgrade to an ocean-view room shared with one other participant for added comfort and scenic views of Jaco Beach.$2,650
Premier ExperiencePrivate Ocean View RoomIndulge in a private ocean-view room for ultimate comfort and relaxation during your stay.$2,950

👨‍👩‍👧 Family & Guest Packages

Guests are welcome to join participants and enjoy all group meals, scheduled activities, and transportation.
Guests do not participate in CEU or professional development sessions.

Guest OptionRoom TypeDescriptionPrice (USD)
Option A – Shared 1 BedShared with ParticipantPerfect for couples or companions sharing one bed in the participant’s room.$800
Option B – Shared 2 BedsShared with ParticipantIdeal for friends or family who prefer separate beds in the same room as the participant.$1,300
Option C – Private RoomPrivate Room (1–2 Beds)For guests who prefer their own private room while joining all meals and group activities.$1,950

💡 Notes:

  • Prices are per person and based on double or single occupancy as listed.

  • A $500 deposit is required to reserve your space.

  • Balance is due 60 days before departure.

  • All prices include hotel accommodations, meals listed above, activities, and conference programming.

  • Airfare is not included.

Learn More -Registration is now open

FAQs

Everything except international flights to San Jose International Airport, travel insurance (optional), and a few meals.

Yes, deposit payments are refundable within 30 days of registration. After 30 days your deposit is transferable to another program but not refundable.

Yes! Friends and family members are welcome. Friends and Family can book their packages the same way you do. Just make sure they chose one of the friends & family spots. These spaces will include all of the accommodations, all activities, and included meals. Everything except the CEU courses. Spaces for friends and family are limited so make sure they book at the same time as you

We have graduate students and professional SLPs. Ages range from early 20’s through to 70’s! We welcome a diverse range of ages and encourage professionals to join at any age or stage in your career.

Local accommodations will be a 4-Star beach front hotel only 1-hour from San Jose. Walkable to everything including restaurants, bars, markets, coffee shops, shopping, etc.

Bilinguistics reports courses to ASHA within 45 days of the end of the event. As an example, if your course ends at the end of July, your courses will be reported to ASHA no later than mid-September.

.1 ASHA CEU is equal to one hour of professional development.

Participants will be provided a link and code to obtain their certificates on the last day of the program.

All participants are required to attend 7 of the 10 activities in order to receive partial credit.

If you attend all events you will receive 20 ASHA CEUs. 

No, we will have excursions, workshop with community partners, visit local historical sites, enjoy activities that will all earn CEUs as well.

No, we will tour facilities and have the opportunity to speak with people who work there, but we will not provide any direct therapy services.

No, we will discuss assessment and intervention as it relates to monolinguals and bilinguals who speak a range of languages.

The Certificate in CLD is a way for you to show your employers and clients that you have taken courses that address the ASHA competencies in Cultural and Linguistic diversity.

No

Register Now and Join Us In Costa Rica!

A Note To Graduate Students & Clinical Directors

 

We know that for many graduate students with classes and clinics, travel during the summer can be a challenge. We currently only offer this 5-day program one time per year. Why do we do this if we know the timing is bad?

Because for working professional SLPs, the timing is perfect. The goal of this program is to get a really diverse group of people together to learn from each other in a culturally rich and diverse place. Everyone will get CEUs including those needed for the new ASHA DEI Certification and a certificate of cultural & linguistics diversity from Bilinguisitcs. For graduate students, we want this event to be the highlight of your journey to becoming an SLP and a truly unique learning environment for everyone involved. This only works if we have a really good combination of professionals and graduate students together and learning from each other. In addition to learning this content, it’s also an amazing way for graduate students to build their professional network, gain mentors in the field, and even find potential CF placements. We know it is a challenge because of the summer clinic and class schedule, but we would love to work with you to make this trip possible. The content, professional experience, and networking go above and beyond anything that is currently offered for graduate students at a typical conference. We hope you will consider making this a part of your graduate school experience.

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DISCLOSURE OF FINANCIAL RELATIONSHIPS: Ellen Kester, Ph.D., CCC-SLP. Dr. Ellen Kester is the owner of Bilinguistics and receives a salary. Bilinguistics receives royalty payments for online courses. DISCLOSURE OF NONFINANCIAL RELATIONSHIPS: Ellen Kester does not have any non-financial relationships to disclose.

DISCLOSURE OF FINANCIAL RELATIONSHIPS: Scott Prath, M.A., CCC-SLP is a salaried employee of Bilinguistics. Bilinguistics receives royalty payments for online courses. DISCLOSURE OF NONFINANCIAL RELATIONSHIPS: Scott Prath does not have any non-financial relationships to disclose.

Registration for this event will be on a rolling basis until filled. Register Now !