Speech language pathologists (SLP as it's commonly referred
to) evaluate, identify, treat, and help prevent speech, language,
cognitive-communication, swallowing, voice, fluency, and other
associated disorders. SLP
jobs often works with the full range of human communication
and its disorders and treats patients of all ages, from infants
to the elderly.
Speech language pathologist treats congenital,
developmental, and/or acquired difficulties such as:
Cognitive communication impairments – problem solving,
memory, and attention disorders
These problems can be the result of a number of variables including
brain deterioration or injury, cleft palate, mental retardation,
emotional troubles, cerebral palsy, loss of hearing, stroke,
disabled learning, voice pathology, and disordered or delayed
development.
The initial assessment of a patient uses
quantitative and qualitative techniques to evaluate and diagnose
the nature and extent of the impairments. From this assessment,
the speech language pathologist builds a plan of care that
is individualized and customized to each patient’s needs.
The SLP will typically provide direct clinical services to
the patient. They may also work side by side with a team of
other therapists, social workers, physicians, psychologists,
teachers, and rehabilitation counselors.
In addition to treatment, speech language pathologists guide
the patient and their families on how to deal with the stress
and misunderstandings that are often accompanied with communication
disorders. Techniques and behavior patterns to enhance treatments
at home are taught to family members by the therapist.
If you are currently an SLP and would like
more information about an exciting carreer as a travelling
Speech Lanaguage Pathologist, visit our SLP
job page for employment opportunities throughout the US.
