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 home stays and 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.

Home stays are typically for 2-3 nights. Ban Pong Huay Lan offers students an opportunity to engage with rural Thailand through a community-based tourism initiative that celebrates local traditions while creating sustainable economic opportunities. Rather than observing culture as spectators, students are welcomed into a community that has intentionally developed tourism as a way to preserve cultural heritage, strengthen local livelihoods, and share Thai traditions on its own terms. Through hands-on experiences alongside community members—including traditional crafts, cooking, dessert making and everyday cultural practices—students gain a deeper understanding of Thai values as well as learn directly from community members. These activities will give a small window into the ways communities balance cultural preservation and economic resilience in a modernizing world.

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 today. 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 first full day provides an introduction to Thai culture, healthcare, education, and disability services. Through discussions and local perspectives, students explore how communication support and AAC are implemented within the Thai context.

Students begin with an introductory session led by local rehabilitation professionals exploring AAC methods and interdisciplinary practice within the Thai context. In the afternoon, they visit the Ban Pong community to experience traditional Northern Thai cooking and cultural exchange.

Students visit the Dulabhatorn Foundation to observe and engage in rehabilitation services supporting children and adults with complex communication needs and explore the role of AAC in promoting participation across everyday environments.

Building on the previous day's experience, students continue observing rehabilitation programs with a focus on communication intervention, family involvement, and functional communication. The visit highlights how therapists adapt communication strategies to meet individual needs while supporting participation in daily life.

Students participate in an interactive workshop exploring AAC systems and functional communication screening. Guided by local rehabilitation professionals, the session allows students to connect their observations with current approaches used in the field.

Students spend the day observing communication support within inclusive school environments at Anusarnsuntorn School and Kawila School for the Deaf. They explore how teachers and therapists work together to create opportunities for students with diverse communication needs.

Students engage with clients at Dulabhatorn Foundation today completing vocational training and community-based rehabilitation programs, gaining insight into how communication supports independence in work and daily routines. Plan and prepare activities to do with the participants.

Students join Children's Day activities at the Dulabhatorn Foundation, observing and supporting communication through group play. The experience highlights the importance of natural communication opportunities for children with diverse communication needs.

Students observe paediatric speech-language pathology services at the Rajanagarindra Institute of Child Development (RICD), learning how interdisciplinary teams support children with communication disorders. The day concludes at Progression Vertical Climbing Gym, where students observe adaptive recreation.

Building on the experiences gained throughout the program, students participate in a supervised adaptive climbing session. Working alongside experienced facilitators, they explore how activity adaptation is possible even in a sport as intense as rock climbing.

Students visit an ethical elephant sanctuary to learn about conservation and long-term animal welfare. While distinct from clinical practice, the experience encourages students to reflect on broader rehabilitation concepts. It also provides an opportunity to appreciate the cultural significance of elephants within Thai society.

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