Speech-Language Pathologists
Speech-language pathologists assess and treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. They select alternative communication systems and teach their use and perform research related to speech and language problems.
Speech and language pathology is the scientific study of speech, fluency, feeding and swallowing, and all the mechanisms of speech and language, along with the therapeutic application of corrective and augmentative measures to help people with speech disorders speak and communicate better.
Speech-language pathologist's job description is to work with people of all ages, from babies to adults and treat many types of communication and swallowing problems, including problems with speech sounds, language, literacy, social communication, voice, fluency, and cognitive communication and feeding.
Speech-language pathologists are highly educated and trained clinicians, educators, researchers, and administrators and at a minimum, hold a master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Other master’s degrees may include Master of Arts, Master of Science or Master of Education.
Speech pathologists are required to study anatomy and physiology, but they also study neuroanatomy, genetics, human and language development, linguistics, psychology, acoustics and more, which is why they are qualified to evaluate, diagnose and treat a broad range of delays and disorders. and get a six-figure speech-language pathologist salary.
Career options for speech and language pathologists are in educational and clinical settings like hospitals, physicians’ offices, private clinics, nursing homes, rehabilitation centres and research laboratories.
To be successful, a skilled speech-language pathologist should be caring, resourceful, and able to develop individualized plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Audiology
- M.Sc. Audiology and Speech Language Pathology
- B.Sc. Audiology and Speech Language Pathology
Tasks
- Monitor patients' progress and adjust treatments accordingly.
- Administer hearing or speech and language evaluations, tests, or examinations to patients to collect information on type and degree of impairments, using written or oral tests or special instruments.
- Develop or implement treatment plans for problems such as stuttering, delayed language, swallowing disorders, or inappropriate pitch or harsh voice problems, based on own assessments and recommendations of physicians, psychologists, or social workers.
- Instruct clients in techniques for more effective communication, such as sign language, lip reading, or voice improvement.
- Teach clients to control or strengthen tongue, jaw, face muscles, or breathing mechanisms.
- Develop speech exercise programs to reduce disabilities.
- Consult with and advise educators or medical staff on speech or hearing topics, such as communication strategies or speech and language stimulation.
- Design, develop, or employ alternative diagnostic or communication devices or strategies.
- Conduct lessons or direct educational or therapeutic games to assist teachers dealing with speech problems.
- Communicate with non-speaking students, using sign language or computer technology.
Progression Routes
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