Speech Language Pathology

What Is Speech Language Pathology?

Speech Language Pathologists (sometimes called speech therapists) diagnose speech problems—verbal and non-verbal–in individuals of all ages and implement treatment strategies to help patients improve their abilities to communicate and swallow.  Swallowing may be hard after an illness. Problems that are treated have to do with language problems—understanding and expressing oneself—and choosing appropriate social communication and body language. Some therapists specialize in deaf or hard of hearing patients as well as people who suffer from some level of autism.  The treatments are based on the latest research results and best practices being used in the field, and the pathologist has to reassess the client along the way to adjust treatments as necessary.

This health field is complex, providing lots of opportunities to work with people, primarily on a one-to-one basis, and make a really big difference in their lives.  If you like helping people, are patient with people who will need lots of repetitive practice, you may make a really good speech therapist.  Possible jobs include Speech Language Pathologist School Based, Bilingual Speech Language Therapist, Licensed Speech Therapist Assistant, Early Childhood Speech Pathologist, and Speech Pathology – Pediatric.