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Becoming A Speech-Language Pathologist: Education, Duties, Salary

Learn what it takes to become a speech language pathologist and the career opportunities you can pursue in this rewarding profession.

Becoming a speech-language pathologist typically requires a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and a passing score on a licensure exam. Many states expect prospective speech-language pathologists to complete a Clinical Fellowship (CF) experience as a bridge from graduate student to professional. Most Professional Certificate programs and employers also require this type of experience. 

As a speech-language pathologist, you’ll work with individuals who struggle with communication, speaking, listening, or hearing. You may also work with people who have swallowing disorders. A speech-language pathologist’s job is to both diagnose and treat. Your salary will vary by where you work, your location, years of experience, and any certifications you earn. 

What exactly is Speech-Language Pathology?

Speech-language pathology is the study of disorders in human communication, as well as all of the various ways that humans communicate. Researchers in the field aim to discover effective treatment methods for communication and oral motor disorders involving the mouth and throat. These disorders can affect a person's ability to pronounce words correctly, share ideas, follow generally accepted conversation rules, organize thoughts, and more. Some people are born with a speech-language disorder, while others may result from an external trigger like a traumatic brain injury, stroke, or autism spectrum disorder. 

What Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Do Day-To-Day?

Speech-language pathologists diagnose, assess, develop and execute individualized treatment plans for people experiencing communication problems involving speech and language or swallowing disorders that affect the ability to eat and drink properly. These health care professionals work with individuals who suffer from language or speech problems and swallowing disorders. A speech-language pathologist may work with various age groups, from newborns to the elderly. They may also work with a wide range of speech, language, and swallowing/feeding disorders that may result from developmental delay, physical deformation, cognitive disorders, injury, illness, aging, or mental/emotional disorders. 

Identify speech, language, or swallowing difficulties.

A large part of what a speech-language pathologist does is identifying and diagnosing speech, language, and swallowing difficulties. A speech-language pathologist may use informal methods like observation, interviewing, or completion of analog tasks to identify speech and language disorders and problems. Sometimes they use formal tools and techniques that may involve standardized assessments, such as the Cognitive Linguistic Quick Test or the Monroe-Sherman test.

The speech pathologist will choose their method based on a person’s age, cultural background and values, and the severity of the concerns in question. Most speech-language pathologists begin with an initial assessment that involves a blend of testing and evaluation of voice quality and a physical examination of the mouth. Swallowing disorders may be caused by neurological disorders, stroke, and even dental problems. Speech-language pathologists can help identify and treat swallowing difficulties by physically examining the muscles used for swallowing. This examination usually involves the patient performing specific movements and swallowing substances to assess their swallowing ability. 

Provide treatment options

After identifying the problem and offering a diagnosis, a speech-language pathologist puts together a treatment plan. But how does a speech-language pathologist know what will work for treating the condition and the individual? A speech-language pathologist works with people regularly, often working through difficult situations where a person may become frustrated. You must know your client and understand the best methods and approaches to help them. 

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the act of making informed and evidence-based decisions using your knowledge as a trained professional and best practices found in published studies and research. You also may consider individual observations you’ve conducted and the cultural values and the expectations of your client and their families or caregivers. When a speech-language pathologist develops a treatment plan, it’s best to use EBP to create a program that is mindful of the patient's needs and all of the options to help that patient reach their goal. 

Help individuals cope with speech disorders.

Speech disorders can be a frustrating experience. People who suffer from communication disorders may experience social anxiety, loneliness, problems at work, embarrassment, and even depression. This means that those with language and speech disorders may need additional support beyond a plan of treatment to deal with the frustration and setbacks they may experience.

Speech-language pathologists may act as counselors when working with patients who become overwhelmed, frustrated, sad, or angry. Their work can include helping patients with the thoughts, behaviors, and reactions related to the communication disorder. Some ways a speech-language pathologist can help individuals cope with speech disorders include: 

Help your patient find a counselor or therapist with experience helping people with speech disorders.

Create a relaxed environment when working with the patient.

Inform the family and caregivers on helpful ways to communicate with your patient (i.e., don’t interrupt, reduce background noise, and ask them what would be helpful).

Use restating and reflection when a patient becomes frustrated. Repeat what they say back to them and try to clarify with the patient what they mean and how you can help.

Try to identify negative thoughts when working with your patient and tease those out to discuss the validity of those thoughts.

Refer your patient to peer groups or support groups in your area.

Teach self-advocacy skills so that your patient can better communicate what they need and feel more confident.

Teach people how to build and maintain fluency 

People who struggle with stuttering or similar problems have trouble speaking smoothly at a normal rate of speed, also known as fluency. Sometimes when a patient has suffered a stroke or has some other neurological condition, they may also have trouble with fluency. Speech-language pathologists may use techniques like breathing exercises, syllable stretching, and strategies like speaking in shorter sentences to help their patients speak confidently and avoid hesitations and filler words in conversation. 

Essential Skills of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

Speech-language pathologists must possess several critical skills, including active listening and compassion. These health care professionals work with many people from different backgrounds, ages, and with differing needs or disorders. Some essential speech-language pathologist qualifications include:

Active listening

Critical thinking

Decision-making

Adaptability

Verbal and written communication

Time management

Dependability

Education and licensing requirements

You must have your master’s degree in speech pathology, and pass the Praxis exam, to become a speech-language pathologist. With your graduate degree, you can complete your clinical fellowship (CF) experience, obtain state licensure, and earn certifications. 

Read more: How to Get a Master's Degree

Bachelor's Degree in a related field

Your first step to becoming a speech-language pathologist is to earn your bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) or a related field. Other common majors for speech-language pathologists include linguistics, social science, psychology, English, language development, and education. 

Read more: Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree: What It Is and How to Earn One

If you have your degree in a field unrelated to speech pathology, you may need to take additional coursework for entry into a graduate program. 

Master's in Speech-Language Pathology

When choosing a graduate degree program, be sure you find a program that the Council of Academic Accreditation accredits in Audiology and Speech Pathology (CAA). ASHA provides a list of accredited schools if you need help. 

As part of your master’s program, you can expect to learn evidence-based treatments and methodology for communication disorders and swallowing disorders, cognitive aspects of communication, speech sound production, and the ability to detect abnormal human development. You will also learn a lot about ethics and ASHA’s code of ethics. 

Aside from your coursework, you’ll also be expected to complete at least 400 hours of a clinical practicum and supervised clinical experience in the field. Most programs take about two years to complete in full.

Passing the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology

You’ll need to pass the Praxis exam in speech-language pathology to gain state licensure and earn any certifications post-graduate school. This exam is crucial as it allows you to demonstrate proficiency in critical technical skills needed to be an effective speech pathologist. 

To be eligible to take the exam, you must have graduated from a master’s program in speech pathology. The Praxis is scored by ASHA’s Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC), and passing scores are determined by state licensing boards and ASHA. Note that score requirements may vary by state and differ from ASHA’s requirements for earning CCC-SLP certification. 

Professional Certificates

When you’ve satisfied all educational requirements to become a speech-language pathologist, you’ll likely be looking for a mentor to complete your Clinical Fellowship (CF). In some states, a mentor is required to get licensed as a speech-language pathologist; it’s also a requirement if you’re applying for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) certification. Many board-certified specialty certifications will also require the completion of a CF. 

A CF is a 36-week mentored internship experience that allows new graduates to gain professional experience before starting on their own as speech-language pathologists. You’ll likely spend around 80 percent of your time in direct clinical contact working with clients and the remainder in continuing education opportunities like training, conferences, or other related experiences. 

If you want to specialize in a particular area or work with a specific demographic, consider earning a board-certified specialty (BCS) certification approved by ASHA. Specialty certifications are available through the following specialty certification boards: 

American Board of Fluency and Fluency Disorders 

American Audiology Board of Intraoperative Monitoring 

American Board of Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders 

American Board of Child Language and Language Disorders 

You can also find specialty certifications through other organizations that advocate for specific disorders. 

Getting Started with Your Career

When you’re ready to start your career as a speech-language pathologist, find a CF mentor in a work environment where you see yourself working for years to come. If you need help deciding where you’d like to work as a speech-language pathologist, who you’d like to work with, or what disorders you want to focus on, consider networking with people in the field and researching your options. Building relationships early in your career has many benefits. 

Get Clinical Experience

Your clinical experience as a clinical fellow can be an invaluable tool for helping you aim the trajectory of your career as a speech-language pathologist. This experience acts as a bridge from student to professional. Take full advantage of this experience. Try to choose a mentor working in a similar area to you that which you want as a speech pathologist. If you plan to work with children, look for school clinical experiences. If you're going to work with neurological disorders or people recovering from a stroke, look for opportunities in hospitals or nursing homes.  

Network With People In The Field

Networking with people in speech pathology can be an effective way to find employment or just to learn more about the field and create relationships with like-minded professionals who may help you get your career started. You can network through social media or LinkedIn, attend networking events and conferences, or reach out via email or other means of communication. Professional speech-language pathology groups also offer meet-ups either online or in person.

How Much Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Earn?

A speech-language pathologist working in the US earns an average of $79,060 a year, or about $38.01 an hour. As of 2020, this average is reflective of all of the 158,100 jobs available [1] . Factors like certifications, location, work schedule, and the employer will affect a speech-language pathologist’s salary.

Typical Salary Ranges In Different Jobs

Speech-language pathologists may work in medical facilities like hospitals, private physician offices, nursing homes, schools, or as self-employed freelancers. 

Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are among the highest paying employers of speech-language pathologists, earning an average of $99,340 Educational facilities like schools are among the lower-paying employers offering an average annual salary of about $75,270 a year [2] . 

There is not as much data on the annual salary for self-employed speech-language pathologists. Since these individuals make their own schedules, the earning potential is up to them. However, if you want to work as a freelance speech-language pathologist, consider that a number of factors will impact your earning. A large, loyal client base and offering in-home care, online sessions, or other more convenient ways to receive therapy can affect how much you can earn. 

Job Outlook

Speech-language pathologists can enjoy an optimistic job outlook for at least the next ten years. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects average job growth of 29 percent from 2020 to 2030 for the profession [3] . This growth rate is above average. A few reasons for this exceptional growth include an aging population, increased awareness of communication and neurologic disorders in childhood, and medical advances in cognitive disorders resulting from illness or injury.   

Next Steps to Becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist

Take the next steps to become a speech-language pathologist by researching the profession and finding out what you’d like to do within the field. Do you want to work with children? Senior citizens? Stroke survivors? As you earn your formal education as a prospective speech pathologist, consider enrolling in courses that may help you learn more about the field and your options. On Coursera, you’ll find courses specifically designed for future and current professionals in language and audiology, like Voice Disorders:What Patients and Professionals Need to Know or Introduction to Hearing Loss . Be proactive and learn as much as you can, whether in the middle of your journey to becoming a speech-language pathologist or just getting started.

How long does a Master's in Speech-Language Pathology take? ‎

A master’s program in speech-language pathology typically takes about two years to complete or about 48 academic credit hours. This includes at least 350 to 400 hours of supervised clinical experience. Certain factors like academic credit requirements and program structure may affect this timeline. ‎

Is the Praxis Exam hard? ‎

The Praxis exam in speech-language pathology tests your subject matter on various topics within speech-language and audiology. You can take practice tests and obtain free test prep materials from the ETS website, which administers the test. Take advantage of these resources to prepare for the difficulty of the Praxis. ‎

Does it matter what bachelor's degree I choose? ‎

Yes. If you know you want to become a speech-language pathologist, you should earn a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences disorders (CSD). Many graduate programs require this major, and you may have to take additional coursework if your degree is in an unrelated field. Choosing the appropriate bachelor’s degree program can also be beneficial when you start looking to earn a master’s degree in this field.  ‎

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Article sources 

1. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Occupational Outlook Handbooks Speech-Language Pathologists Summar y, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/speech-language-pathologists.htm#tab-1 .” Accessed April 16, 2022.  

2. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Occupational Outlook Handbooks Speech-Language Pathologists Work Environment ,  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/speech-language-pathologists.htm#tab-5.” Accessed April 16, 2022. 

3. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Occupational Outlook Handbooks Speech-Language Pathologists Job Outlook , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/speech-language-pathologists.htm#tab-6 .” Accessed April 16, 2022.

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The Benefits of Speech Therapy

What to expect, frequently asked questions.

A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help you with speech, language, and swallowing. They provide speech therapy to children and adults who may have speech or language disorders.

People with certain medical conditions may also benefit from speech therapy. Medical conditions that may cause speech or swallowing impairment include traumatic brain injury , stroke (brain damage due to a blood vessel blockage or bleed), and dementia (decline in memory and thinking functions).

This article looks at the various uses for speech therapy, what to expect during a session, and the techniques involved in this type of therapy. 

Verywell / Theresa Chiechi

Speech therapy can help with a variety of conditions.

Speech Disorders

Speech therapy may help with speech disorders like:

• Stuttering : Stuttering may involve repeating parts of words, prolonging words, or struggling to get out certain words. You may be more likely to have a stutter if you have a family history of stuttering.
• Apraxia : This motor speech disorder makes it difficult to move the tongue and lips to make sounds required for speech. In some cases, people with apraxia cannot speak at all. Causes for this disorder include brain tumors, dementia, stroke, and any other condition that causes brain injury.
• Voice : Voice disorders can be temporary or permanent and make it hard to speak. Chronic voice disorders include chronic cough, vocal fold paralysis, vocal polyps (growths on the vocal cords), and spasmodic dysphonia (vocal cord spasms).
• Dysarthria : People with this speech disorder have muscle weakness that makes it difficult to talk. They may slur or mumble their words. Dysarthria can happen due to brain injury or chronic degenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease or Huntington’s disease .

Language Disorders

A language disorder ( aphasia ) is a condition that makes it difficult for a person to read, write, speak, or understand speech or other modes of communication. 

Someone with this type of disorder may struggle to:

• Use incorrect words for things
• Say complete sentences 
• Understand what other people say
• Understand jokes
• Read or spell 

Brain tumors, traumatic brain injuries, and degenerative disorders that affect cognitive function can all cause aphasia.

Feeding and Swallowing Disorders

Feeding and swallowing disorders can occur in both children and adults. A feeding disorder involves trouble with eating, sucking, drinking from a cup, or chewing. The specific term for swallowing disorders is dysphagia . Children or adults with dysphagia have trouble swallowing food or drink. 

Problems swallowing or feeding may or may not be related to a medical condition. Conditions that may cause a swallowing or feeding disorder include:

• Cleft palate or cleft lip
• Asthma and other breathing issues
• Heart disease
• Premature birth
• Nervous system disorders
• Reflux 
• Muscle weakness 
• Sensory issues
• Autism  
• Behavior problems
• Certain medications

Speech therapy begins with an evaluation to assess your difficulties and whether any structural issues contribute to your speech, language, feeding, or swallowing problems. An evaluation may involve a standardized test to help determine what you most need help with. Informal conversations may also help figure out your needs. 

A speech-language pathologist will then work with you to help improve your ability to speak, converse, or swallow. This may involve:

• Educating you on how to do certain things like articulating or pronouncing sounds
• Teaching you language skills
• Providing you with educational materials
• Giving you exercises to help strengthen your muscles 
• Giving you exercises that help you breathe better
• Participation in group therapy sessions 

You should also expect to practice the skills and exercises you learn in speech therapy sessions at home. Your speech-language pathologist may provide you with workbooks, worksheets, or virtual apps for at-home practice.

Speech Therapy for Adults

Depending on the reason you’re seeking out speech therapy, a speech-language pathologist may:

• Help you learn to move your muscles correctly to make sounds if you have apraxia or dysarthria
• Teach you how to use your breath to speak louder if you have dysarthria
• Help you learn to manage stuttering by teaching you to lower stress levels in certain situations
• Help you strengthen your mouth muscles to make it easier to swallow and eat if you have a feeding or swallowing disorder due to a brain injury or disease

Speech Therapy for Children

A speech-language pathologist’s approach will depend on the child. When working with a child who has a feeding or swallowing disorder, they might focus on:

• Strengthening the muscles of the mouth
• Helping the child with chewing
• Encouraging the child to try new food and drink
• Changing food texture to make it easier to swallow food 
• Helping with sensory issues related to food

Other skills a speech-language pathologist may work on with a child include:

• Language complexity : For example, they might teach words like "and" and "or" to connect ideas within sentences.
• Conversation skills : This may include role-playing to help the child with socialization and improve their read of social cues. 
• Vocabulary : They may use games or storytelling to help build the child’s vocabulary. 
• Phonological awareness : This recognition of the sounds that make up words is an important skill for reading. The SLP may work on helping the child identify sounds and rhymes in words to build this skill.

Healthcare professionals will also test your child’s hearing to see if hearing loss may be contributing to language and speech issues.

If you or your child is getting speech therapy from a qualified speech-language pathologist, you might wonder how likely it is that you’ll see improvement in speech, language, or feeding. 

Results will depend on the individual. It’s also essential to follow the exercises, tips, and strategies provided by the speech-language professional. Regular visits and keeping up with practice activities and exercises make it more likely to see an improvement in yourself or your child. 

A speech-language pathologist works with children or adults who have speech, language, or feeding and swallowing disorders. Typically the first session will involve an evaluation to determine the areas that are causing you the most problems. 

From there, they may teach you exercises and strategies to improve your speech, language, or ability to swallow and eat. 

A Word From Verywell

Think you or your child would benefit from speech therapy? Get in touch with your primary healthcare provider and ask for a recommendation. You can also use the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s (ASHA)  Find a Certified SLP Tool . 

Not all children develop at the same rate, but if your child has issues understanding language, doesn’t use gestures, or doesn’t seem to be learning new words, you might consider having them evaluated by a speech therapist. 

While this may depend on the individual and the cause of speech-related problems, research suggests that speech and language therapy can significantly improve speech and language issues.

One example of a typical speech therapy technique is articulation therapy. This technique teaches the person to make specific sounds, sometimes by showing them how to move their mouth or tongue.

A language delay is when a child has difficulty in speaking and understanding speech that is unusual for their age.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Stuttering .

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Apraxia of speech in adults .

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Voice disorders .

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Dysarthria .

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Aphasia .

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Feeding and swallowing disorders in children .

Brainline. Speech therapy .

Understood for All. What is speech therapy .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Languages and speech disorders in children .

Broomfield J, Dodd B. Is speech and language therapy effective for children with primary speech and language impairment? Report of a randomized control trial . Int J Lang Commun Disord . 2011;46(6):628-640. doi:10.1111/j.1460-6984.2011.00039.x

Nemours Children's Health. Speech-language therapy .

By Steph Coelho Steph Coelho is a freelance health and wellness writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience working on content related to health, wellness, mental health, chronic illness, fitness, sexual wellness, and health-related tech.She's written extensively about chronic conditions, telehealth, aging, CBD, and mental health. Her work has appeared in Insider, Healthline, WebMD, Greatist, Medical News Today, and more.

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Home Blog What Is a Speech-Language Pathologist/Therapist (SLPs)?

What Is a Speech-Language Pathologist/Therapist (SLPs)?

A speech-language pathologist is a professional who assesses, diagnoses and treats communication and swallowing disorders in individuals of all ages.

In our everyday lives, communicating helps us share our thoughts, feelings, and ideas. However, for some, this gift of clear and effective communication doesn’t come easily. This is where Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) come into the picture, significantly transforming lives through their expertise in language and speech.

This blog aims to help you understand and appreciate the crucial role speech-language pathologists play in the world of communication and language. It sheds light on the SLP profession and explains why they are indispensable in our society.

We’ll delve into their core responsibilities, the diverse conditions they address, and the profound influence they wield across all age groups. It also explains the education and training, work environment, conditions they treat, and career options for SLPs.

Whether you’re simply curious about this noble profession or you’ve personally experienced the life-changing support of an SLP, our goal is to provide you with valuable insights and foster a deeper appreciation for the vital work they do.

Table of Contents

Unlocking the Power of Speech: What Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Do?

Speech-language pathologists or speech therapists are health professionals who diagnose and treat the following disorders:

• Speech disorders – encompass challenges in producing speech sounds accurately, issues related to resonance, and difficulties with voice. For example, stuttering.
• Language disorders – Difficulty understanding others (receptive) or sharing their thoughts and feelings (expressive). The language disorder can manifest in both written and spoken forms, potentially encompassing aspects such as content (semantics), usage (pragmatics), and structure (phonology, syntax, and morphology) within the context of socially acceptable and practical communication.
• Social communication disorders – Difficulty in social verbal and non-verbal communication such as greeting, commenting, asking questions, talking in different ways, and following the rules of conversation. For example, autistic individuals or those with traumatic brain injury have social communication issues.
• Cognitive communication disorders – Difficulty in organizing their thoughts, planning, remembering, paying attention, and problem-solving. These could be congenital or because of dementia, brain injury, or stroke.
• Fluency disorders – Difficulty in making the sounds, syllables, phrases, and words flow together. Examples are stuttering and cluttering during normal conversation.
• Swallowing disorders – Difficulty in feeding and swallowing, which results in an illness, injury, or stroke.

These disorders could be due to an injury, a medical condition, or by birth. SLPs can choose to work with a specific age group, such as toddlers, teens, or other age groups.

In the case of childhood speech difficulties, SLPs support young children by helping them articulate words and express themselves effectively through targeted therapy, ultimately improving their communication skills and confidence.

For adults recovering from a stroke, SLPs play a critical role in rehabilitation by addressing communication deficits and swallowing difficulties. Through personalized therapy, they help individuals regain their language skills and ensure their overall well-being, facilitating meaningful conversations and enhanced quality of life.

The Roles and Responsibilities of SLPs

Speech-language pathologists treat the patients, which results in building confidence and self-worth. Individuals with speech disorders can eventually learn social interaction and fluent speech for better personal and professional lives.

Speech-language therapists collaborate with physical therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, social workers, psychologists, audiologists, and physicians. Their job roles include:

• Devising and executing treatment plans based on assessments and input from the interdisciplinary team.
• Continuously assessing patients’ conditions and adapting treatment strategies as needed.
• Administering and evaluating speech, language, and hearing tests.
• Compiling reports and maintaining records of patient evaluations, treatment progress, recovery, and discharge information.
• Educating patients and their families on treatment methods and communication techniques to address disorders.
• Developing, implementing, and refining diagnostic tools and communication strategies.
• Creating and delivering speech programs.
• Providing aural rehabilitation for patients with hearing impairments.
• Supplying augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices for individuals with conditions such as autism or progressive neural disorders.
• Instructing individuals without communication disorders, such as those seeking accent modification or communication enhancement.

In addition to their primary responsibilities, speech-language pathologists have diverse roles that extend to supporting national, state, and local agencies. They may also take on supervisory roles in public school or clinical programs, overseeing the delivery of speech and language services.

Moreover, SLPs often play a crucial role in training support personnel and offering counseling services to patients and their families, providing essential emotional support and guidance.

In the field of research, speech-language pathologists actively contribute to the study of human communication, working to develop innovative treatment methods and advance the knowledge of this vital discipline.

Education and Training for Speech-Language Pathologists

Becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) involves a rigorous educational and training path:

• Bachelor’s Degree: The journey typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) or a related field. This serves as the foundation for further studies.
• Master’s Degree: To obtain SLP licensure, you need to successfully finish a master’s degree program in speech-language pathology, accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) . This graduate program typically takes around two years to complete.
• Clinical Experience: Hands-on clinical experience is a crucial component of SLP training. During the master’s program, students participate in supervised clinical practicum experiences, which provide exposure to real-world cases and clients.
• Certification: After completing their master’s degree, individuals can pursue certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) . Certification requirements may include completing a clinical fellowship and passing the Praxis examination.
• State Licensure: SLPs must obtain state licensure to practice in the specific state or region where they intend to work. Requirements vary from state to state and typically include proof of education, clinical experience, and successful completion of an examination.
• Continuing Education: SLPs are often required to engage in ongoing professional development and continuing education to maintain their certification and stay updated on the latest research and techniques in the field.

This rigorous education and training process ensures that SLPs are well-equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of communication and speech disorders across different age groups and settings. It’s important to note that the specific requirements may vary by region or country, so aspiring SLPs should verify the regulations in their desired practice area.

What Conditions Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Treat?

Speech-Language Pathologists treat a wide range of conditions related to communication and speech. These conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Articulation Disorders: Difficulty in pronouncing specific sounds or words correctly.
• Language Disorders: Challenges with understanding and using language, which can affect vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.
• Fluency Disorders: Conditions like stuttering that disrupt the flow of speech. Voice Disorders: Problems with pitch, volume, or quality of the voice.
• Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia): Difficulty in swallowing, which can lead to choking or aspiration.
• Aphasia: A language disorder often caused by brain injury, impacting speaking, understanding, reading, and writing.
• Cognitive-Communication Disorders: Issues with memory, problem-solving, and other cognitive aspects that affect communication.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders: SLPs can help individuals with autism improve their communication and social skills.
• Hearing Loss: SLPs work with individuals who have hearing impairments to develop communication strategies, including the use of sign language or assistive devices.
• Communication and Feeding Difficulties in Children: SLPs address a wide range of communication and swallowing issues in pediatric populations.

SLPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and provide therapy for individuals across the lifespan who experience these and other communication and swallowing challenges, helping them improve their overall quality of life.

Some famous individuals who overcame speech disorders and became influential figures in the world of entertainment and leadership are:

• Tiger Woods
• Bruce Willis
• Samuel L. Jackson
• Nicole Kidman

Reasons to See a Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech and language disorders could result in a significant impact on one’s emotional well-being. SLPs can help children and adults overcome these lifelong problems early on. Some reasons to see an SLP are:

• Articulation and Pronunciation Issues: Children may struggle with pronouncing sounds or words correctly, hindering their ability to be understood. SLPs work with them to improve articulation and clarity.
• Language Development Delays: Some children experience delays in language development, which can affect vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension. SLPs provide interventions to help children catch up with their peers.
• Stuttering and Fluency Disorders: Stuttering can impede effective communication in both children and adults. SLPs offer strategies and techniques to enhance fluency and confidence.
• Voice Disorders: Voice disorders can affect pitch, volume, and quality of speech. SLPs diagnose and treat these issues, preserving vocal health.
• Swallowing Difficulties (Dysphagia): Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can lead to choking and malnutrition. SLPs address these concerns, ensuring safe and efficient swallowing.
• Aphasia and Cognitive-Communication Challenges: After a brain injury or stroke, individuals may experience aphasia, impacting their ability to speak, understand, read, and write. SLPs provide therapeutic techniques to regain language skills.

The Impact of Untreated Speech and Language Issues

Untreated speech and language issues can profoundly affect one’s life. Children may struggle academically, experience social isolation, and grapple with self-esteem issues. For adults, communication difficulties can hinder career advancement and limit social interactions, leading to frustration and isolation.

In children, early intervention by SLPs can significantly improve academic success and social development. For adults, SLPs can help regain the ability to communicate effectively, fostering better professional and personal relationships.

Where Do SLPs Work?

SLPs are part of a larger rehabilitation team comprising physical therapists, audiologists, occupational therapists, and psychologists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , 42% of SLPs work in educational services, 25% in offices with physical, occupational, and speech therapists and audiologists, and 14% in hospitals.

Some of the typical work settings for SLPs include:

• Schools: SLPs often work in elementary and secondary schools, helping children with speech and language disorders that may affect their academic success.
• Hospitals: SLPs in hospital settings work with patients of all ages who have acquired speech, language, voice, or swallowing disorders due to medical conditions such as strokes, traumatic injuries, or degenerative diseases.
• Rehabilitation Centers: In rehabilitation centers, SLPs provide services to individuals recovering from accidents, injuries, or surgeries, helping them regain their speech and swallowing abilities.
• Private Practices: Some SLPs run their private practices, offering services to clients of all ages with various speech and language concerns. This allows for more personalized and flexible care.
• Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: SLPs working in these settings primarily assist older adults with speech and swallowing difficulties, often associated with aging or degenerative conditions like dementia.
• Research and Academia: SLPs may work in research roles at universities and academic institutions, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field and educating future SLPs.

Careers in Speech-Language Pathology

As per data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the year 2022 witnessed 171,400 job positions for Speech-language pathologists, with a projected growth of 33,100 new employment opportunities (a 19% increase) expected by 2032. The median annual income for SLPs in 2022 stood at $84,140 per year (equivalent to $40.45 per hour).

SLPs enjoy strong job prospects with a growing demand for their services across various settings. Opportunities abound in healthcare, education, and specialized clinics, offering career stability and the chance to make a profound impact. Some potential career paths are:

• School-Based SLPs: Work in educational settings to support children with speech and language disorders, aiding academic success.
• Medical SLPs: Serve in hospitals, rehab centers, and clinics, helping patients recover from communication and swallowing issues caused by medical conditions.
• Private Practice SLPs: Establish independent practices to provide personalized therapy and consulting services.
• Research and Academia: Contribute to advancing knowledge and educating future SLPs through research and teaching roles at universities.
• Telepractice SLPs: Offer remote assessment and therapy, expanding access to care for diverse populations.

If you’re passionate about improving lives through communication, consider pursuing a career in Speech-Language Pathology. Start with a bachelor’s degree in a related field, then a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. Gain clinical experience and obtain necessary certifications and licenses.

A career in speech-language pathology offers financial rewards while allowing you to create a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals spanning children, adolescents, and adults, all through the positive outcomes of speech therapy.

As an SLP, you champion inclusivity for those grappling with speech, language, and cognitive challenges, opening doors to improved communication and enhanced well-being.

For students with a passion for improving lives through communication, exploring a future in speech-language pathology is a rewarding journey. To take the first step, consider exploring educational opportunities such as the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at NEIT. This program could be your gateway to becoming a certified SLP and making a lasting impact in the lives of those in need.

Explore, learn, and be inspired by the boundless possibilities within this remarkable field.

What is the difference between a speech therapist and a language pathologist?

A speech therapist and a language pathologist are often used interchangeably, but they typically refer to the same profession. Both work with individuals to address speech and language disorders, helping them communicate effectively. The more formal term for this profession is “Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP),” which encompasses both speech and language aspects. So, the difference is primarily in terminology, with “SLP” being the professional title.

What undergraduate major is best for speech pathology?

The best undergraduate major for pursuing a career in speech pathology is typically Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) or a closely related field like Linguistics, Psychology, or Education. These majors provide a strong foundation for the required graduate studies in speech-language pathology.

What are the 9 domains of speech-language pathology?

The nine domains of speech-language pathology are articulation, fluency, voice and resonance, cognition, hearing, language, social communication, swallowing, and communication modalities.

What is a speech and language specialist and how to become one

A speech and language specialist is a professional who assesses, analyzes, and diagnoses communication difficulties in people of all ages. They use various methods, such as tests, observations, and one-on-one talks with individual patients, to understand the problem. Based on their findings, they create a treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs. They may involve activities like exercises. Speech and language specialists work in the education and healthcare sectors and private practice. They provide individual and group therapy for children with a range of communication difficulties. They also conduct assessments, write diagnostic reports, and train staff to use devices. They collaborate with other educators and healthcare professionals to support students with communication difficulties. They also educate and train other professionals about communication development.

How long does it takes to become a speech and language specialist?

It typically takes 6-8 years to become a speech and language specialist:

• Years 1-4: Obtaining a Master's degree in a relevant field, such as Communication Sciences and Disorders or Speech-Language Pathology.
• Years 5-6: Accumulating the necessary work experience in diagnosing and treating communication disorders.
• Year 7: Completing on-site training for 1-3 months.
• Year 8: Completing on-the-job training for less than 1 month.
• Salary $62,320
• Growth Rate 21%
• Jobs Number 25,162
• Most Common Skill SLP
• Most Common Degree Bachelor's degree
• Best State Virginia

Speech And Language Specialist career paths

Speech and language specialists can pursue various career paths, including becoming a speech language pathologist or a therapy program manager. They can also transition into roles like a clinical manager, where they oversee the operations of a healthcare facility or department. These roles allow them to leverage their expertise in communication disorders and therapeutic interventions to help individuals improve their speech and language abilities.

Key steps to become a speech and language specialist

Explore speech and language specialist education requirements.

The educational requirements for a speech and language specialist are a master's degree. According to Ronda Walker , Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Longwood University, "You must negotiate. Check to see what comparable salaries are in the area and in the setting before you even go in for the interview. Have a range in mind." It is also recommended that speech and language specialists keep up with continuing education and professional development to increase their earning potential. By pursuing a specialization they are passionate about, such as feeding and swallowing or early intervention, they can advance their career.

Most common speech and language specialist degrees

Bachelor's

Master's

Start to develop specific speech and language specialist skills

Complete relevant speech and language specialist training and internships, research speech and language specialist duties and responsibilities.

Speech and language specialists are responsible for conducting assessments, training staff to use devices, and incorporating classroom objectives into therapy sessions. They also supervise assistants, manage caseloads, and administer diagnostic and re-evaluation assessments. They design individual programs for children with communication difficulties and provide therapy for a range of disorders. They also collaborate with teachers and other professionals to improve student progress. As Ronda Walker , Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Longwood University, advises, "Keep up with continuing education and professional development. Pursue a specialization that you are passionate about."

• Manage diverse caseload from identification through IEP process.
• Produce IEP and function as a member of the child study team in order to produce a specialize IEP for students.
• Assist speech language pathology staff in providing speech/language therapy services for clients with communications disorders.
• Participate in evaluating the concerns and developing specific speech and language treatment plans for children with communication difficulties.

Prepare your speech and language specialist resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your speech and language specialist resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a speech and language specialist resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Speech And Language Specialist Resume templates

Apply for speech and language specialist jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a speech and language specialist job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

• Browse job boards for relevant postings
• Consult your professional network
• Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
• Watch out for job scams

Are you a Speech And Language Specialist?

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Average speech and language specialist salary

The average Speech And Language Specialist salary in the United States is $62,320 per year or $30 per hour. Speech and language specialist salaries range between $43,000 and $90,000 per year.

What Am I Worth?

How do speech and language specialists rate their job?

Speech and language specialist reviews.

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Speech And Language Specialist Related Careers

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• Speech-Language Pathologist Teacher
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• Speech/Language Therapist
• Student Clinician

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13 Pros and Cons of Being a Speech-Language Pathologist

Are you considering a career as a speech-language pathologist? A speech-language pathologist has the unique and essential job of helping people communicate better, but what are the pros and cons of being a speech-language pathologist? Before you make any decisions, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of this profession. As a speech-language pathologist, you can expect to face various challenges and rewards in your career. Here are the top 13 pros and cons of being a speech-language pathologist so you can decide if this is the best career move for you.

What Does A Speech-Language Pathologist Do?

Where does a speech-language pathologist work, what is a typical speech-language pathologist work schedule like, how much does a speech-language pathologist make, job outlook for a speech-language pathologist, top cons of being a speech-language pathologist, 1. you will first need to earn a bachelor’s degree., 2. you will need to earn a master’s degree., 3. you will need to pass the praxis series of the educational testing service exam., 4. you will need to complete your required clinical hours., 5. if you want to work in a school, you will need to earn your certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology (ccc-slp)., 6. you will need a license to practice., 7. i hope you have been saving your pennies., 8. you may have a huge caseload., 9. you may have to work weekends., 10. you may have to work holidays., 11. you may become burned out., 12. if you work in the school system, you may be split between more than one school., 13. you will have a ton of paperwork to complete, top pros of being a speech-language pathologist, 1. you will earn a good living., 2. you can work in a variety of settings., 3. you will have job security., 4. you will always be able to find a job., 5. you could travel for work., 6. you can be your own boss., 7. your schedule can be flexible., 8. you can even further specialize., 9. you are helping people., 10. your job will be intellectually challenging, 11. you will be helping educate and empower your clients and their families., 12. you will see your client’s progress., 13. you are a valuable member of the healthcare team., my final thoughts.

Administrative Assistant & Accreditation Support Specialist - Speech Language Pathology

Job posting for administrative assistant & accreditation support specialist - speech language pathology at concordia university wisconsin/ann arbor.

Concordia is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and in the world.

Position Summary

Concordia University seeks a full-time Administrative Assistant and Program Support Specialist for the Department of Speech-Language Pathology. This position provides clerical and technical support to the SLP Department, SLP Program Director (PD) and the SLP Director of Clinical Education (DCE). This position supports academic programs and clinical placements that are accountable to external accrediting bodies. This position requires detailed knowledge of word processing software, databases, and web page design and a willingness to learn and use program-specific software for student, program, and placement data management. The position reports to the SLP Program Director and supports academic and clinical programs located on the Mequon campus of Concordia University. The hours are Monday through Friday with occasional evenings.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

General Department and Program Responsibilities

• Serve as the first contact with students, parents, and the public visiting the program; greet and direct visitors in a friendly and professional manner
• Plan and coordinate events including orientation, visit days, and graduation celebrations.
• Attend department meetings and prepare agendas, take minutes, schedule exams and may manage master department calendar
• Purchase and process requisitions, expense reports, hiring paperwork, and payroll for adjunct instructors and lab assistants through FLAC.
• Supervise student workers
• Maintain student files according to university and FERPA requirements.
• Secure actors, graders, and outside lecturers to support courses and exams.
• Provide interdepartmental administrative support, as needed
• Assist program admissions committee, including writing and sending acceptance letters, tracking tuition deposits, sending welcome packets, assisting with interview schedules, and using program specific admissions software.
• Communicate with new graduates and alumni for records and recommendations from faculty for employment and credentialing
• Other duties as assigned to support the PD and faculty of the department.

Director of Clinical Education Support Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the SLP CEC, faculty and SHP Director of Assessment to provide needed documents for internal and external assessment purposes.
• Management of student clinical progress and reports using program specific software.
• Maintain multiple excel spreadsheets of data; run reports using filters and create charts to facilitate data analysis.
• Assist with the creating contracts for clinical sites, collecting signatures and filing

Accreditation Responsibilities

• Assist programs in preparation for reaccreditation self-study preparation to meet all academic and clinical standards
• Assist in organizing and typing large accreditation and technical manuscripts, including an Annual Accreditation Report.
• Collaborate with the PD, faculty and SHP Director of Assessment to provide needed documents for assessment purposes.
• Manage student progress and retention statistics and reports
• Administer surveys to students, graduates/alumni, clinical instructors and sites at faculty request using Qualtrics or other survey collection tool; monitor responses and collate data
• Assist Program Director and Director of Clinical Education (for OT- Academic Fieldwork Coordinator) in drafting compliance statements for standards, as appropriate
• Ensure that student handbooks, marketing documents, and accreditation portal are accurate and meet accreditation standards
• Coordinate accreditation site visit activities as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to operate office technology and personal computer with related applications efficiently
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, E-Mail, database, and Blackboard functions
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the University and maintain a positive, can-do, service-oriented attitude
• Excellent communication skills - written and oral
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and organize work in a busy office setting
• Ability to demonstrate ingenuity and prompt action in resolving problems
• Ability to be well organized, detail oriented and accurate and able to prioritize work
• Ability to read, comprehend and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Knowledge of office processes
• Ability to maintain strict confidentially

Education and Experience

An undergraduate degree is preferred and/or three to five years of general office experience that include an advanced level use of Microsoft Office especially Excel, Access, Word and Outlook. Previous experience working in academia is a plus

Physical Demands/Equipment

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full-time, non-exempt (hourly) position. The starting wage may be determined upon education and/or experience. Concordia University benefit options include, but are not limited to the following:

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Personal Spending Account, Flexible Spending Account, and/or Health Savings Account
• Disability and Survivor Plan
• Retirement Pension Plan
• Retirement 403(b) Savings Plan
• Basic Life and Supplemental Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment Coverage
• Critical Illness and Accident Insurance
• Tuition waiver benefits (available for employees and their qualified dependents)

Compensation and Benefit Details

Application Instructions

To receive full consideration, all applicants are asked to complete and submit an online employment application through the Concordia University Employment page. To begin, please click the Apply Now section on the job page and then click the Apply For This Position button to begin the application process.

Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of CU to provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

The University will not discriminate against or harass any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, pregnancy, national origin (including ancestry), citizenship status, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, gender, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

However, CU is an institution of the LCMS and, to the extent allowed by law, CU reserves the right to give preference in employment based on religion. In addition, preference in holding certain employment positions is given to ordained or rostered ministers of the LCMS. Based on a religious tenet, CU recognizes only male, LCMS ordained Ministers of the Gospel, but recognizes both male and female LCMS Rostered Ministers of the Gospel.

The Human Resources Department has been appointed to manage the equal employment opportunity, including all equal employment opportunity activities, as required by federal, state and local agencies. If any employee or applicant for employment believes this policy has been violated, he/she must contact the Director of Human Resources.

Concordia University is a HLC accredited, co-educational, liberal arts school offering more than 70 undergraduate majors, over 40 master's degree programs, and 4 doctoral programs. There are also a variety of accelerated evening and e-learning programs.

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