Esther Kim, PhD, MS, BSc - Directory@UAlberta.ca

After receiving her BSc (Psychology) from the University of Alberta, Dr. Kim completed graduate and post-graduate training at the University of Arizona. She has worked in several settings with adult neurogenic clients, including skilled nursing facilities, home health and the Aphasia Research Project at the University of Arizona. She joined the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders in December 2009. She served as Acting, Interim and Chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders from 2021-2025 and is currently serving as Interim Dean of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine.

Professional Interests

Dr. Kim's research focuses on improving outcomes for individuals with neurogenic communication disorders (communication problems as a result of brain injury/progressive conditions). She is passionate about improving accessibility for individuals with communication disorders through advocacy and contributing to creation of accessible spaces. She is co-founder of the Alberta Aphasia Camp, and the Corbett Aphasia Rehabilitation and Education (CARE) program, two Life-Participation Approach for Aphasia (LPAA) focused programs for individuals impacted by aphasia.

Research

The ultimate goal of our research lab is to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by acquired language disorders. Research in the lab includes studies designed to investigate cognitive mechanisms underlying language processing, developing evidence-based treatments, examining methods for increasing neural plasticity and promoting quality of life through Life Participation Approach for Aphasia (LPAA) based interventions. We are partnering with individuals with communication impairments, including aphasia, to make services, spaces and systems more communicatively accessible.