GAV Research + Publications by Katherine Isaacson, M.S., CCC-SLP

Examining the Need for Scripts-Based Curriculums in Gender Affirming Voice Training – Although evidence-based voice therapy techniques are well established, their application within gender-affirming voice (GAV) training remains inconsistent. This project examines gaps in clinician knowledge regarding the standardized implementation of evidence-based approaches for GAV. Interviews with speech-language pathologists revealed a shared need for a structured, evidence-informed curriculum to support consistent therapeutic sequencing and client education. Findings from the literature further highlight the absence of standardized GAV frameworks, underscoring the need for an organized, affirming, and replicable clinical approach. (In-progress, 2028)

GENDER AFFIRMING VOICE TRAINING: Flip Your Voice With Water Bubbles: A Unique Step-by-Step Curriculum

For Voice Trainers and Independent Learners! This book presents a unique curriculum for gender affirming voice training that restructures common evidence-based practices using Water Resistance Therapy (WRT). Focusing on changing the sensory-motor memory process related to everyday voice, the curriculum emphasizes WRT as a semi-occluded vocal tract exercise that provides task-level scaffolding for exploring pitch, resonance, and prosody. Rooted in research, evidence-based practice, and learner report, the curriculum provides concrete steps and structured sessions that are safe, effective, and protective to the vocal folds and vocal tract. Color images are included for visual representation of how to control the variables at each step of the curriculum. Color images related to pitch charts, anatomy, and physiology of voice related to the curriculum steps are also included. Designed as a practical roadmap for independent learners and their voice trainers, this restorative voice curriculum helps support gender affirming voice changes that align with a speaker's gender identity, presentation, and expression. (2026) Amazon: https://a.co/d/02qOKNKD

GENDER AFFIRMING VOICE TRAINING: A UNIQUE CURRICULUM: Rethinking How to Structure a Common Evidence-Based Practice for Changing Vocal Behaviors at the Conversational Level

This book presents a fresh application of Water Resistance Therapy (WRT) for gender-affirming voice training by emphasizing sensory–motor memory change in everyday voice use. Through controlled implementation of WRT as a foundational framework, the approach supports safe exploration of pitch, resonance, and prosody while protecting vocal structures. The structured, concrete methodology offers clinicians a clear, empowering roadmap for guiding clients toward voice patterns aligned with their gender identity, presentation, and expression. (2024) Amazon: https://a.co/d/1KCSQ8M