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Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)
What is a speech-language pathologist?
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) specialize in treating communication disorders. These disorders can occur due to an injury or health condition, disability, surgery, or developmental disorder. SLPs assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in adults and children.
SLPs can work with many types of communication issues, such as:
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Speech, language, and swallowing disorders
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Speech fluency and stuttering disorders
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Voice disorders
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Using communication devices
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Written language disorders
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Thinking, memory, and learning (cognitive) disorders
Where they work
SLPs work in many settings, such as:
Degrees and certification
Most SLPs hold a master's degree from an accredited speech-language pathology program. They must be either licensed or registered within their state. They may also earn a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. This is offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Other clinical specialty certification is also available.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rahul Banerjee MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rita Sather RN
Date Last Reviewed:
1/1/2023
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