In today’s rapidly evolving field of speech-language pathology, a deep understanding of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is no longer optional—it’s essential. As more SLPs serve individuals with complex communication needs, graduate programs are seeking applicants who demonstrate not just academic excellence, but specialized experience, cultural responsiveness, and interdisciplinary understanding. Therapy Abroad’s CSD + AAC Program in Chiang Mai, Thailand is designed to give students a transformative, career-elevating experience that goes far beyond the classroom. This program offers direct mentorship from AAC experts and licensed SLPs, paired with real-world engagement in clinical, school, and community settings. Participants will gain valuable exposure to low-tech AAC systems, communication partner training, assistive communication strategies, and therapeutic approaches for culturally and linguistically diverse populations. You’ll return with observation hours, resume-boosting experience, deeper insight into AAC, and a compelling story to tell in your graduate school applications and interviews.

You can book this trip for the following dates:

• December 29, 2026 -January 10, 2027

Please note this does not include travel days en-route. To book your spot, simply find the green "Book Now" button on this page, select the date you wish to travel with us, and put down your deposit. It's as simple as that!

This specialized two-week program is intended for undergraduate students, recent graduates, and post-bacc students ages 18 and up who are interested in pursuing a career in speech-language pathology (speech therapy) and learn from experts about augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This program is ideal for:

• Undergraduate, post-bacc students, and graduate students pursuing Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Sciences

• Students interested in AAC, neurodiversity, and inclusive communication practices

• Those preparing for SLP graduate school and looking to strengthen their resume with real-world AAC experience

• Students passionate about working with culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) populations

This program includes structured observation and volunteer hours across:

• Clinical therapy settings focused on AAC use with children and adults

• Special education schools and community-based programs

• Communication partner training and caregiver coaching

• One-on-one mentorship and debriefs with ASHA-certified SLPs and AAC practitioners

Undergraduate students will earn ASHA observation hours required to start graduate school and graduate students will earn clinical hours, while also participating in active, hands-on learning opportunities that prepare you for clinical placements and future fieldwork.

No other program combines group travel, study abroad, and hands-on professional development exclusively for students pursuing Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) with an in-depth look into Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). If you're preparing for a future in SLP or seeking to deepen your expertise in AAC, this is your opportunity for real-world, career-elevating learning in an international setting.

• Build foundational and applied knowledge of AAC across cultures and settings

• Understand evidence-based practice and ethical considerations in global speech-language therapy

• Learn how to collaborate with caregivers, special educators, and allied health professionals

• Gain perspective on how AAC systems differ in international, resource-limited contexts

• Reflect critically on your role as a future clinician in diverse communities

Therapy Abroad programs emphasize hands-on skill development in evaluation and treatment. On this trip you will gain:

• Cultural responsiveness

• Culturally/Linguistically Diverse (CLD) Population Considerations

• Assessments and Report Writing

• Low-Tech AAC Interventions and Resources

• Deeper understanding and practice with Alternative and Augmentative Communication and clients requiring AAC support

• Communication Partner Training

• Build experience and resume for graduate school admissions

• Intercultural exchange in a creative learning environment

• Increased skills in intercultural communication

• Letters of Recommendation for graduate school from your SLP supervisors

Thailand is a country where tradition, innovation, and compassion intersect—making it a powerful setting for future speech-language pathologists to explore the global dimensions of communication and care. Known for its deeply rooted cultural values, warm hospitality, and progressive approaches to education and healthcare, Thailand offers a learning environment that is both inspiring and immersive. At the heart of this experience is Chiang Mai, a city nestled in the lush mountains of northern Thailand. Revered as the country’s cultural and creative capital, Chiang Mai is home to inclusive schools, community-based therapy centers, public hospitals, and forward-thinking educators—all of which play a key role in Therapy Abroad’s SLP and AAC programming. Chiang Mai is especially meaningful for students interested in culturally and linguistically responsive AAC. With its diverse linguistic landscape—including Thai, English, regional dialects, and hill tribe languages—students are uniquely positioned to explore how culture, language, and context influence access to communication. Whether you're observing therapy sessions in a hospital, engaging in community outreach, or participating in workshops on low-tech AAC solutions, Chiang Mai will challenge and inspire you. It's not just a place to learn—it’s a place to connect, reflect, and grow.

You’ll stay in boutique hotel accommodations with communal areas for relaxing, meeting rooms for group discussions, and comfortable rooms for resting. Rooms are shared with one other student, featuring private bathrooms and two beds. You’ll have access to Wifi, fresh drinking water, western-style toilets and showers, and on-site or nearby laundry services. Meals will include a mix of Thai and Western cuisine—rice, curries, noodles, spicy salads, fried foods, fresh vegetables, and exotic fruits. We guarantee plenty of delicious food and can cater to dietary needs if requested in advance. An amazing place with rich history, great food, and the friendliest people. Thailand’s scenic beauty and the warmth of its people will quickly make you feel at home!

The total program cost does not include international airfare. Therapy Abroad organizes a chaperoned flight. You can find out more information about flights and how they work here. Most students choose to travel on the chaperoned flight, though we have flexibility for those who cannot or choose not to.

In addition to hands-on work, you will have the chance to enjoy a variety of cultural and adventure activities, including hiking (or rock climbing), Thai cooking classes, and a visit to an elephant sanctuary. These activities provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Thai culture while earning volunteer hours and gaining valuable experience.

With the exception of international airfare, everything is included in your program tuition! There are no surprise costs, no hidden “optional activities,” and no upselling. Your tuition covers all activities, materials, meals, and housing so you can focus on learning, exploring, and making the most of your time abroad without worrying about extra expenses. We know study abroad is a big investment for students and their families, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. From professional staff to comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and a full itinerary of meaningful activities, we’ve designed everything to give you the best possible experience.

The total tuition is $4,700:

• Non-refundable deposit (due at booking): $1,000

• Remaining balance: $3,700 (split into 2 payments of $1,850)

And if you’re worried about payments, we’ve got options to help:

• Explore our Fundraising Guide with strategies and resources.

• Use our new built-in Contribution Page feature—just like GoFundMe, but directly linked to your program's tuition balance! So each time someone donates, you automatically owe less on your next payment.

• Bring a friend! We offer a refer-a-friend discount of $100 each. So help us spread the word while you lower your tuition.

• To save on extra processing fees, we recommend making your payment by ACH (direct bank transfer) at booking.

• Need more flexibility? We can help customize a payment plan that works for you—just ask!

We recommend that students bring about $200 as pocket money for souvenirs any extra snacks they want.

In the event of a cancellation, your deposit will be applied toward any tuition owed. Any remaining balance from the deposit will be held as a credit for a future Therapy Abroad trip. Refund percentages include the non-refundable deposit.

• 100% refund for cancellations made 90+ days before departure.

• 75% refund for cancellations made 90–61 days before departure.

• 50% refund for cancellations made 60–46 days before departure.

• 0% refund for cancellations made within 45 days of departure.

The deposit is non-refundable, but it can be transferred to a different program (for the same person only) as long as we’re told at least 60 days in advance. 

Safety is our top priority, and we take a hands-on approach to ensure every aspect of your experience is secure. Every location, accommodation, and activity is personally vetted by Therapy Abroad directors. From departure to return, we provide a seamless, worry-free experience. You’ll always be part of a group led by experienced facilitators—never outsourced staff. Our team ensures access to medical care, clean food and water, and reliable communication at all times.

Sustainability is at the heart of our mission. Our programs are designed with Thailand’s needs in mind, incorporating hands-on teacher training, modeling, and professional presentations to ensure lasting impact. What sets Therapy Abroad apart is our year-round commitment to building services—not just meeting immediate needs. We collaborate with educators, nonprofits, and community groups to create sustainable, culturally relevant solutions in speech-language pathology, education, and community health.

Here are some links to our website that are worth exploring:

• More about this specific trip

• Explore TherapyAbroad.org

• Our mission at Therapy Abroad

• Meet our team

• Why travel with us

• Read student and staff reviews

• FAQ

A finalized and detailed itinerary will be shared with participants approximately one month prior to departure. This is a sample itinerary provided to give you a general idea of the types of activities, excursions, and clinical opportunities that may be included during your trip. Specific schedules may vary based on site availability, local partnerships, and group needs.

Participants arrive in Chiang Mai and are welcomed with a smooth hotel check-in at Mountain View. The group gathers for a welcome dinner followed by a program orientation. This session sets expectations, introduces staff and clinical supervisors, and provides an overview of the immersive experience ahead. Learning outcomes:

• Acclimate to the travel environment and group dynamic
  

• Understand the goals and structure of the program
  

• Begin developing professional rapport with peers and facilitators

The day begins with a Thai language and culture workshop at the hotel. This foundational session provides students with key phrases and social context to navigate their surroundings. Participants then explore the Old City in small groups through a hands-on scavenger hunt that reinforces language skills. In the afternoon, the group visits RICD, the program's main community partner, and receives a formal orientation to Thailand’s AAC practices. They tour the AAC Center and the primary facility that will host Tykes Camp. Learning outcomes:

• Gain basic Thai language skills to support communication and cultural immersion
  

• Observe AAC infrastructure and therapeutic services at RICD
  

• Begin forming an understanding of local clinical contexts

Participants visit Don Kaew Community Hospital to explore Thai traditional medicine and wellness philosophies. Through rotating sessions led by Dr. Tammy, they learn about ancient practices including element-based (“taat”) therapies, Thai massage, and herbal medicine. In the evening, students dine at a local market, absorbing more of Chiang Mai's vibrant culture. Learning outcomes:

• Understand the role of traditional medicine in Thai healthcare
  

• Reflect on alternative healing modalities and their integration into rehabilitation
  

• Evaluate the cross-cultural implications of traditional vs. Western therapeutic frameworks

At Chiang Mai University, participants engage in AAC-focused activities led by the Linguistics Department. They practice clinical role-play using AAC tools and analyze Thai linguistic features. In the afternoon, back at the hotel, the group receives an introduction to Tykes Camp from their Clinical Supervisors, including an overview of participating children, family profiles, and camp goals. Learning outcomes:

• Apply AAC tools in structured role-play scenarios

• Analyze how language structure and cultural values shape therapy approaches
  

• Prepare to design therapy interventions tailored to diverse client needs

The group travels to the Elephant PooPoo Paper Park with children and staff from the Dulabhatorn Foundation. Working in small groups, students participate in creative, sensory-rich activities that serve as informal AAC practice. Afterward, they return to the hotel for Tykes Camp planning, then wrap up the day with a Thai cooking class at Asia Scenic.

Learning Outcomes:

• Apply AAC techniques in naturalistic, engaging settings
   
• Strengthen rapport-building and child-led communication strategies
   
• Explore sensory integration through environmental and hands-on learning

Participants spend the day at the Dulabhatorn Foundation, a local organization serving children with developmental differences. They observe clinical supervisors in action, meet with staff, and gain a deeper understanding of the foundation’s community work.  Midday, the group travels to Elephant Kingdom, a local sanctuary where students engage in a guided experience focused on animal care, conservation, and therapeutic interaction. This visit provides a powerful experiential learning opportunity, encouraging students to reflect on how structured animal interaction can support emotional regulation, social communication, and connection—especially in children with developmental differences. The day ends with leisure time and dinner at Chiang Mai’s Wualai Walking Street. Learning outcomes:

• Observe interdisciplinary therapy models in a real-world clinic
  

• Develop cultural sensitivity and community engagement skills
  

• Reflect on client and family-centered practices in a Thai context

This intensive planning day focuses entirely on Tykes Camp development. Participants design therapy stations, prepare intervention materials, and finalize session plans with support from their clinical supervisors. The day also includes a trip to Kam Paeng Din market for supplies and group collaboration exercises. Learning outcomes:

• Design developmentally appropriate therapy stations
  

• Plan interdisciplinary interventions for children with communication challenges
  

• Strengthen collaboration and leadership within a clinical team

Students head to RICD to set up Tykes Camp and conduct a full run-through of their therapy stations. They refine logistics, transitions, and intervention materials based on team feedback. In the afternoon, they participate in a Muay Thai session at The Bear Fight Club, connecting physical wellness with discipline and resilience. Learning Outcomes:

• Execute planning strategies for a structured therapy camp
  

• Incorporate feedback to improve intervention delivery
  

• Explore physical and cultural elements of health promotion

Tykes Camp begins! Children arrive at RICD and rotate through the therapy stations designed by the participants. The day focuses on building rapport, facilitating communication, and adapting plans in real time. Post-camp debriefs guide participants in refining their approaches. Learning outcomes:

• Facilitate evidence-based interventions using AAC tools
  

• Adapt activities to diverse learner needs in a group setting
  

• Reflect on therapeutic impact and refine clinical decision-making

Students continue facilitating therapy stations while incorporating feedback from the previous day. They focus on reinforcing goals, supporting transitions, and improving station consistency and flow. Group reflection highlights key challenges and adaptive strategies. Learning outcomes:

• Deepen intervention strategies based on child response and feedback
  

• Improve group management and caregiver communication
  

• Develop professional resilience and problem-solving skills

 On the final day of Tykes Camp, participants complete remaining rotations and host a closing ceremony for children and families. They collect feedback and celebrate participant progress. The afternoon includes time for rest, with a final reflection session in the evening. Learning outcomes:

• Evaluate the overall impact of a multidisciplinary therapy camp
  

• Celebrate child achievements and contribute to a sustainable model
  

• Develop self-awareness and confidence as a future clinician

A formal morning session includes group presentations, written reflections, and program evaluations. Participants identify key learning moments and personal growth, and develop a plan for transferring lessons into future academic and clinical work. Learning Outcomes:

• Synthesize program experiences into personal growth statements
  

• Translate international fieldwork into academic and professional goals
  

• Develop strategies for continued global engagement

Participants pack, check out, and head to the airport for international flights. Final goodbyes are exchanged, and students depart with new skills, cultural insight, and professional inspiration. Learning outcomes:

• Conclude the experience with a sense of purpose and reflection
  

• Maintain professional relationships and networks
  

• Leave with tools for lifelong learning and cultural humility