Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)

Requirements: A master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders, certification as speech-language pathologist.

Alternately referred to as speech therapists, speech-language pathologists (or SLPs) work with children and adults who have problems with communication due to a birth defect, developmental disorder, accident or chronic condition. These professionals evaluate, diagnose and treat clients, taking a comprehensive approach to the individual. Here are some of the areas speech-language pathology addresses:

• Articulation disorders
• Language disorders
• Fluency disorders
• Voice and resonance disorders
• Hearing disorders
• Cognitive aspects of communication
• Social aspects of communication
• Augmentative and alternative communication modalities
• Feeding and swallowing disorders

Speech Therapist Responsibilities:

• Assessing, diagnosing, screening, and preventing language, speech, and swallowing disorders.
• Communicating with the patient, and liaising with their family members, physicians, and teachers to design effective treatment plans.
• Using tried and tested therapies in combination with new, innovative techniques to provide the best care.