Speech-Language Pathologists

Assess and treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. May select alternative communication systems and teach their use. May perform research related to speech and language problems.

Job Task

• Administer hearing or speech/language evaluations, tests, or examinations to patients to collect information on type and degree of impairments, using written and oral tests and special instruments.
• Develop and implement treatment plans for problems such as stuttering, delayed language, swallowing disorders, and inappropriate pitch or harsh voice problems, based on own assessments and recommendations of physicians, psychologists, and social workers.
• Develop speech exercise programs to reduce disabilities.
• Evaluate hearing and speech/language test results and medical or background information to diagnose and plan treatment for speech, language, fluency, voice, and swallowing disorders.
• Instruct clients in techniques for more effective communication, including sign language, lip reading, and voice improvement.
• Monitor patients' progress and adjust treatments accordingly.
• Record information on the initial evaluation, treatment, progress, and discharge of clients.
• Refer clients to additional medical or educational services if needed.
• Teach clients to control or strengthen tongue, jaw, face muscles, and breathing mechanisms.
• Communicate with non-speaking students, using sign language or computer technology.
• Conduct lessons and direct educational or therapeutic games to assist teachers dealing with speech problems.
• Conduct or direct research on speech or hearing topics, and report findings for use in developing procedures, technologies, or treatments.
• Consult with and advise educators or medical staff on speech or hearing topics such as communication strategies and speech and language stimulation.
• Develop individual or group programs in schools to deal with speech or language problems.
• Instruct patients and family members in strategies to cope with or avoid communication-related misunderstandings.
• Participate in conferences or training, or publish research results, to share knowledge of new hearing or speech disorder treatment methods or technologies.
• Provide communication instruction to dialect speakers or students with limited English proficiency.
• Use computer applications to identify and assist with communication disabilities.
• Design, develop, and employ alternative diagnostic or communication devices and strategies.

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