What does slp do

Cognitive-communicative disorders including social communication skills, reasoning, problem solving and executive functions. Pre-literacy and literacy skills including phonological awareness, decoding, reading comprehension and writing. Communication and swallowing disorders related to other issues. For example, hearing impairments, traumatic brain injury, dementia, developmental, intellectual or genetic disorders and neurological impairments.

Find a speech-language pathologist near you. Employment of speech-language pathologists is projected to grow 29 percent from to , much faster than the average for all occupations. About 15, openings for speech-language pathologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for speech-language pathologists. Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of speech-language pathologists with similar occupations. Speech-language pathologists sometimes called speech therapists assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults.

Speech-language pathologists work with children and adults who have problems with speech and language, including related cognitive or social communication problems.

They may be unable to speak at all, or they may speak with difficulty or have rhythm and fluency problems, such as stuttering. Speech-language pathologists may work with people who are unable to understand language or with those who have voice disorders, such as inappropriate pitch or a harsh voice.

Speech-language pathologists also must complete administrative tasks, including keeping accurate records and documenting billing information. Some speech-language pathologists specialize in working with specific age groups, such as children or the elderly.

Others focus on treatment programs for specific communication or swallowing problems, such as those resulting from strokes, trauma, or a cleft palate. In medical facilities, speech-language pathologists work with physicians and surgeons , social workers , psychologists , occupational therapists , physical therapists , and other healthcare workers. In schools, they evaluate students for speech and language disorders and work with teachers, other school personnel, and parents to develop and carry out individual or group programs, provide counseling, and support classroom activities.

For more information on teachers, see the profiles on preschool teachers , kindergarten and elementary school teachers , middle school teachers , high school teachers , and special education teachers. Speech-language pathologists held about , jobs in The largest employers of speech-language pathologists were as follows:.

Most speech-language pathologists work full time. Some speech-language pathologists, such as those working for schools, may need to travel between different schools or facilities.

Speech-language pathologists typically need at least a master's degree. Although master's degree programs do not require a particular bachelor's degree for admission, they may require applicants to have taken certain courses in healthcare and related fields.

Requirements vary by program. Graduate programs often include courses in speech and language development, age-specific speech disorders, alternative communication methods, and swallowing disorders. These programs also include supervised clinical experience. Graduation from an accredited program is required for certification and, often, for state licensure. All states regulate speech-language pathologists.

Most states require speech-language pathologists to be licensed; other states require registration. Certification typically satisfies some or all of the requirements for state licensure and may be required by some employers. To earn CCC-SLP certification, candidates must graduate from an accredited program, pass an exam, and complete a fellowship under the supervision of a certified speech-language pathologist.

To maintain the CCC-SLP credential, speech-language pathologists must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 3 years. Speech-language pathologists who work in schools may need a specific teaching certification. Speech language pathologists may choose to earn specialty certifications in child language, fluency, or swallowing.

Candidates can gain hands-on experience through supervised clinical work, which is typically referred to as a fellowship. This training is a type of internship in that prospective speech-language pathologists apply and refine the skills learned during their academic program under the supervision of a certified speech-language pathologist. Analytical skills. Speech-language pathologists must select the most appropriate diagnostic tools and analyze results to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Communication skills. Speech-language pathologists need to communicate test results, diagnoses, and proposed treatments in a way that individuals and their families can understand. Speech-language pathologists work with people who are often frustrated by their difficulties. Speech-language pathologists must support emotionally demanding individuals and their families. Critical-thinking skills.

Speech-language pathologists must adjust their treatment plans as needed, finding alternative ways to help. Detail oriented. Speech-language pathologists must take detailed notes on progress and treatment.

Listening skills. Speech-language pathologists must listen to symptoms and concerns to decide on the appropriate course of treatment. Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U. When you start speech therapy can also have an impact on the outcome. Speech therapy for young children has been shown to be most successful when started early and practiced at home with the involvement of a parent or caregiver. Speech therapy can treat a broad range of speech and language delays and disorders in children and adults.

With early intervention, speech therapy can improve communication and boost self-confidence. Speech disorders affect the way a person makes sounds. Get the facts on various types, such as ataxia and dysarthria. Stuttering affects about 5 percent of children. It can be more common in those who have a family history of stuttering. Other factors like development…. Here are some treatment approaches for stuttering. Find out what exams and screenings are recommended for men at every stage of life, as well as tips on what to ask your doctor.

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