Speech pathologist

Speech Pathology is a field of expertise practiced by a Speech Pathologist who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of communication disorders, including disorders of speech, language, voice, swallowing, and fluency.

Overview

A Speech Pathologist, also known as a speech-language pathologist, is a professional who diagnoses and treats individuals who have difficulty with speech or language. These professionals work with patients who have problems with fluency, such as stuttering; voice disorders, such as inappropriate pitch or harsh voice; and speech rhythm and articulation problems, such as difficulty forming words and producing sounds.

Education and Training

In order to become a Speech Pathologist, an individual must earn a master's degree in speech-language pathology. This program typically includes both coursework and clinical experience. After earning their degree, aspiring speech pathologists must also complete a clinical fellowship and pass a national examination to become licensed.

Roles and Responsibilities

The primary role of a Speech Pathologist is to assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in patients. These professionals work with individuals who have difficulty speaking and understanding others. In addition, they may work with people who have difficulty swallowing due to an injury or illness, such as stroke or cancer.

See Also

• Audiology
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy

References

Speech pathologist Resources
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