Careers in Speech Pathology
Communication is at the heart of who we are and who we can become. Speech pathologists help those who cannot speak clearly find the ability to communicate better in order lead happier lives.
Speech pathologists work with people who cannot produce speech sounds or cannot produce them clearly; those with speech rhythm and fluency problems, such as stuttering; people with voice disorders, such as inappropriate pitch or harsh voice; those with problems understanding and producing language; those who wish to improve their communication skills by modifying an accent; and those with cognitive communication impairments, such as attention, memory, and problem solving disorders. They also work with people who have swallowing difficulties.
There are hundreds of conditions that may cause symptoms requiring the help of a speech pathologist-ranging from developmental disabilities to cleft palates to emotional problems. Speech pathology demands patience, a broad base of knowledge, and a variety of technical skills, along with compassion, understanding, and a positive, encouraging personality.
What do speech pathologists do in schools?
Speech-language pathologists in schools collaborate with teachers, special educators, interpreters, other school personnel, and parents to develop and implement individual or group programs, provide counseling, and support classroom activities.
Most importantly, the work they do allows students to participate more fully in and out of class, giving them a greater chance of succeeding in school and beyond.
Speech pathologists are trained to identify, evaluate, and administer speech therapy for students with developmental delays and disorders.
- Therapy for voice, fluency, expressive and receptive language, and articulation
- Oral motor and feeding therapy
- Assessment, training, and programming for augmentative communication disorders
- Social skills training
- Training of non-verbal communication, such as sign language, gesturing, and picture exchange communication
What is the career outlook for speech pathologists working in education?
The outlook for speech pathologists in education is very strong. More than half of all speech pathology jobs created in the next 10 years are expected to be in the education sphere. Federal law guarantees special education and related services to all eligible children with disabilities. Greater awareness of the importance of early identification and diagnosis of speech and language disorders in young children will also increase employment.
