Is Gestalt Language Processing “real”?

In the field of speech-language pathology, evidence-based practice is always the gold standard. But, what should we do when the research has not yet “caught up” to what we’re seeing with our own eyes in our own clinical experiences with autistic children?

Well, evidence-based practice is made up of three parts: clinical expertise, client perspectives, and external scientific evidence. And without a doubt, gestalt language processing has two of those three. All over the world, clinicians and parents are seeing what happens when a gestalt language processor’s language development is honored and supported. Additionally, adults who identify as gestalt language processors have also confirmed that this is in fact a “real” thing. I put “real” in quotations, because it feels super dismissive to even question whether this is an actual way of acquiring language, as I have seen it over and over and over again in my ten years as a speech-language pathologist.

Is there room for more scientific research? ABSOLUTELY. Should we wait until this research is completed to support our GLPs? NO WAY. Research takes a very, very long time, and I, for one, will continue to advocate for studies while also providing my clients with the best, individualized treatment possible. And that is what honoring and accepting gestalt language processing truly is.

When it comes to language development, especially for autistic children, understanding Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) is key to supporting their unique communication journey. Unfortunately, there are still many misconceptions about GLP that can lead to confusion or missed opportunities for growth. Let’s take a moment to clear up these myths and shed light on the truth behind using a neurodiversity-affirming approach to language development that honors and accepts gestalt language development.

Myth #1: Non-speaking individuals cannot be gestalt language processors.

This is false, as any individual, regardless of speaking status, can be a GLP. While it may be easier to identify that a speaking child is a gestalt language processor, it’s important to recognize that non-speaking children can be gestalt language processors, as well. Wondering if your child is a gestalt language processor? Listen to this episode of the GLP Podcast for more insight from Nicole and Katja!

Myth #2: Echolalia is Just “Copying” and Should Be Corrected

Echolalia—when a child repeats phrases they’ve heard—is actually very meaningful to our GLPs and is not something that should be discouraged. In fact, for gestalt language processors, delayed echolalia is the foundation of their language development. Rather than being meaningless repetition, these echoed phrases have purpose, often helping the child communicate their ideas, thoughts, wants and needs. Instead of correcting or discouraging echolalia, we should acknowledge, accept, and honor our GLP’s communication as they move through the stages of natural language acquisition (Blanc, 2012).

Myth #3: Gestalt Language Processors Won’t Learn Grammar

While supporting gestalt language processors doesn’t focus on traditional grammar rules at first, children who follow this path can eventually develop self-generated, grammatically “correct” language. The process just looks different. As gestalt language processors move through the stages of breaking down gestalts, they naturally start creating their own sentences and using grammar. The key is patience and trust in the process. Over time, you’ll see your child combine phrases in unique ways and move toward more conventional sentence structures, without forcing grammar drills or corrections.

Myth #4: Supporting a GLP is a “One-Size-Fits-All” Approach

Every child’s journey through gestalt language development is unique. Some may spend more time in the early stages of echoing phrases, while others might quickly move toward flexible language use. The beauty of understanding this way of acquiring language is that it’s highly individualized, meeting each child where they are and building on their strengths.

Myth #5: You Can’t Use Child-Led Approaches to Supporting GLPs in School or Traditional Speech Therapy Settings

A child-led, neuroaffirming approach can absolutely be incorporated into school and traditional therapy settings—and in fact, it should be! By advocating for your child’s needs, you can help educators and therapists understand how to best support your GLP’s communication and how to incorporate it into IEPs and therapy goals. Schools and speech therapists don’t have to abandon what they already know; they just need to understand the basics of gestalt language development to better support gestalt language processors.

What’s next?

Now that we’ve debunked some of the most common myths surrounding GLP, it’s time to take the next step toward optimizing your child’s full communication potential. Did you know that we offer comprehensive GLP courses designed to equip parents and caregivers with the tools to support their child’s language journey? Join over 250 others who have learned this powerful information in our supportive online community!

Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of GLP or need practical strategies to implement at home or school, our GLP program is here to help!