American Speech–Language–Hearing Association

ASHA organization logo

American Speech–Language–Hearing Association (ASHA) is the professional, scientific, and credentialing association for more than 211,000 members and affiliates who are audiologists; speech-language pathologists; speech, language, and hearing scientists; communication disorders assistants; and students in the United States and internationally. ASHA's mission is to empower and support its members and affiliates by providing resources, setting standards, and advocating for individuals with communication and related disorders.

History

ASHA was founded in 1925 as the American Academy of Speech Correction. Since then, it has undergone several name changes to reflect the expanding scope of the profession. In 1978, it adopted its current name, the American Speech–Language–Hearing Association, to fully represent the interests of professionals in speech-language pathology, audiology, and speech, language, and hearing science.

Mission and Vision

The mission of ASHA is to make effective communication, a human right, accessible and achievable for all. ASHA envisions a world where all people can communicate freely and fully. This vision guides the association's efforts in advocacy, lifelong learning, and the development of standards for professional practice.

Membership

ASHA offers membership to individuals who are engaged in the study or practice of speech-language pathology, audiology, or speech, language, and hearing science. Membership categories include certified members, who hold the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from ASHA, and associate members, who include support personnel and students. Members benefit from access to publications, professional development opportunities, and advocacy efforts on behalf of the profession and those it serves.

Certification

ASHA provides the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), a nationally recognized professional credential that represents a level of excellence in the fields of speech-language pathology (CCC-SLP) and audiology (CCC-A). To earn the CCC, applicants must complete graduate education, pass a national examination, and complete a supervised clinical fellowship.

Advocacy and Public Awareness

ASHA engages in advocacy efforts at the federal, state, and local levels to advance policies that improve access to services for individuals with communication and related disorders. The association also promotes public awareness about the importance of early detection and intervention for speech, language, and hearing disorders.

Continuing Education

ASHA provides numerous continuing education opportunities for professionals to enhance their skills and stay current with the latest research and best practices in the field. These opportunities include online courses, webinars, and the annual ASHA Convention, one of the largest gatherings of audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists in the world.

Publications

ASHA publishes a variety of materials to support its members and the public. Key publications include the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, American Journal of Audiology, and The ASHA Leader, a magazine that offers news and updates on issues affecting the profession and the people served by it.

Conclusion

The American Speech–Language–Hearing Association plays a crucial role in supporting professionals who work with individuals with communication and related disorders. Through its commitment to excellence in education, certification, advocacy, and public awareness, ASHA ensures that speech, language, and hearing services are accessible and effective for all who need them.