Speech Pathologist

Duties

 Evaluate and diagnose speech, language, cognitive-communication and swallowing disorders. A variety of qualitative and quantitative assessment methods are utilized including standardized tests, and other special instruments, in order to analyze and diagnose the nature and extent of speech, language and other impairments.  Treat speech, language, cognitive-communication and swallowing disorders in individuals of all levels, from infancy to the elderly, utilizing an individualized plan with both long-term goals and short-term goals established for each individual’s needs.  Clinical services may be provided individually or within groups, depending upon the work site and individual’s diagnosis and needs.

Salary: $72,730

Education:

In order to become an SLP, a bachelor’s and master’s degree is required from an accredited university by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. Within each graduate program, students are expected to complete a total of 400 training hours; 25 of which are observation and 375 hours in direct clinical contact. Only upon completion of a graduate program can you then apply for state licensure and begin the process for earning the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA). According to ASHA, ASHA Certification is defined as a voluntary credential that verifies an individual's achievement of rigorous, uniform, and validated standards that are nationally recognized.