What do speech-language pathologists (SLPs) know about trauma and how does their understanding shape the way they work with children and families? For University of Tulsa alumna Chloe (McEachern) Exner (B.S.S.P. ’23, M.S. ’25), answering that question was at the heart of research she conducted during her studies in the speech-language pathology master’s program at Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences.
Earlier this year, the fruits of her investigations were published in the peer-reviewed journal Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups. Exner co-wrote the article with Laura Wilson, associate professor of speech-language pathology, and Kristine Foyil, applied associate professor of communication sciences and disorders. The trio makes a strong case for ensuring that trauma-informed care (TIC) is integral to how SLPs operate in early intervention scenarios.
“TIC recognizes that a person’s experiences can affect how they communicate, behave, learn, build relationships and respond to the people around them,” explained Exner. “Our research findings encourage clinicians to look beyond a child’s behavior or communication differences and consider what might be influencing them.”
The next step, she noted, “is to create interactions and environments where children and families feel safe, respected, supported and able to have a sense of choice and control.” But to make this a reality for more SLPs requires addressing gaps in TIC education and training through interdisciplinary collaboration and improved data collection.
“I am deeply impressed by Chloe’s commitment to understanding how trauma can affect communication development and therapy outcomes,” said Foyil. “Her research is helping to fill the gap between what clinicians know about trauma-informed practices and how those practices are applied in everyday life. As a clinician, Chloe has an outstanding future in store supporting children and families who have experienced trauma and adversity.”
In 2024-25, Exner presented her research at the Oklahoma Speech-Language-Hearing Association Conference, the ASHA Convention and UTulsa’s Graduate Student Research Day and received the Distinguished Graduate Student Award.
Excelling in Tulsa
As Exner looks back on her decision to pursue speech-language pathology as a career, she notes the formative influence of volunteering during elementary and high school with Best Buddies Canada. This experience enabled her to build relationships with individuals with disabilities. “One year, I met a student who used an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device,” she recalled. “At the time, I didn’t know much about AAC, but I could see how it gave him a way to express himself, connect with peers and participate in the world around him. That lesson stayed with me and helped me realize how powerful communication can be!”
Exner began her post-secondary studies at Western Michigan University, majoring in speech-language pathology and minoring in American Sign Language while competing as a student-athlete in cross-country and track. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, she transferred to UTulsa.
“I had never been to Tulsa or even Oklahoma, so making that move was definitely a huge leap of faith,” she said. “Looking back, though, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only did I complete a bachelor’s and a master’s, but my UTulsa years gave me experiences that shaped the clinician – and the person – I am today.”
Exner said she was “fortunate to have had faculty who not only taught me the material, but who also took the time to get to know me, support my interests and challenge me to think differently.” She underscored the faculty influence: “Dr. Foyil created a space where I felt comfortable asking questions and being curious, even when I didn’t have all the answers. She helped me grow as a student and clinician, and she was instrumental in helping me narrow down the direction of my research. Dr. Wilson similarly had a major influence on my scholarly path. She listened to my ideas, answered countless questions about the intersection of the brain and speech-language pathology and worked closely with me throughout my study design, implementation and analysis phases.”
Exner served in a variety of roles as a graduate assistant with the Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders. These included helping with the Concussion Center, Social Skills Club, podcast production, social media and the 2024 Youth Sports Safety Festival. She also coached sports for young people, including cross-country, track and volleyball.
Back home and thriving
Today, Exner is back in Canada and has found a fulfilling position as an SLP with the Saskatchewan Health Authority. She also earned her license with the College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists of Saskatchewan and her Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Three days a week, Exner works in the Children’s Program at Four Directions Community Health Center. In that capacity, she provides early intervention services to infants and young children while consulting closely with their families, including many that are vulnerable and, historically, have experienced barriers to healthcare.
Two other days a week, Exner works in adult rehabilitation to complete swallow assessments and provide speech, language and cognitive communication services. In this setting, she applies the principles of TIC, recognizing the challenges that can accompany stroke, neurological diagnoses and changes in communication or independence.
“Drawing inspiration from my UTulsa education, I commit to challenging myself to learn new things, question current practices and seek out the best evidence to ensure my clients and their families feel safe, respected, heard and genuinely involved in their care,” she said. “And if I can eventually contribute to TIC education and curriculum development within my profession, that would be hugely satisfying, too.”
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Your unique vision and energy matter. In the Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders and across Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences, you’ll find faculty and staff eager to lift you up so you can accomplish the goals that matter most to you.