Speech Language Pathologists (SLP) assess and treat infants, children and adults who have problems with communication or feeding and swallowing. This includes problems with speaking, understanding and using language, voice, and fluency. These problems may be present from birth, have developed over time or result from an illness or trauma.
What do Speech Language Pathologists do?
- Help people:
- speak clearly and smoothly
- understand spoken or written words and sentences
- find the right words or speaking in full sentences
- organize their thoughts to communicate
- gain and maintain a healthy voice for communicating
- who have trouble eating regular foods or swallowing safely
- who stutter
- Test for language, speech, voice, resonance, fluency and swallowing disorders
- Create supports in every day environments so people can communicate successfully
- Counsel clients and families about communication and swallowing disorders
- Problem-solve to develop alternate means of communication for non-verbal clients using technology and creative solutions
- Coach families, caregivers and others to learn and use strategies to help clients succeed
Where do Speech Language Pathologists work?
- Home care
- Community health centers
- Hospitals
- Schools and preschools
- Long-term care facilities
What are the credentials for a Speech Language Pathologist?
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