Speech-Language Pathology

547 Words2 Pages

Speech-language pathology is the science concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of functional and organic speech defects and disorders. Speech-language pathologists, also known as SLPs or speech therapists, often work as part of team, providing referrals to speech doctors known as audiologists. This job is extremely challenging and requires people possessing certain qualities to be an efficient speech therapist. Speech-language pathology also requires an excellent education and special skills (Careers in Speech-Language NP). I would like to pursue this career because most SLPs work with children that have special needs. These children have a special place in my heart, and I feel like this is a way I can do my part to assist them in having the best life possible. In order to become a speech therapist, one must perform well academically. He or she must focus strongly on arts and sciences, such as Public Speaking, Language, and Psychology. One must also take classes in Counselor Education, Educational Psychology, and Special Education. ¬¬¬ In speech-language pathology, a Bachelor degree alone is not enough in order to obtain a job as an SLP. Potential SLPs must attend graduate school and earn his or her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Unfortunately, the studying is not over until one passes the National Speech-Language Pathology board exam and receiving a license to practice (Explore Health Careers) and continuing education throughout the life of the career is a must. Great people skills are another requirement of a successful SLP. Those wanting to be successful in this career must also have great social skills and a vast amount of patience. SLPs are much like teachers. They have to be able to teach people to talk ... ... middle of paper ... ...one. Those who do possess these abilities are extremely desired, because good SLPs are hard to come by. People who need speech-language pathology need a pathologist who has the patient’s best interest at heart and is willing to do whatever it takes for the patient to get the best treatment possible. Works Cited “Careers in Speech-Language Pathology.” ASHA. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, n.d. Web. 4 December 2013. www.asha.org/careers/professionals/slp.htm “Speech-Language Pathologists.” Bureau of Labor Statistics. Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections, n.d. Web. 4 December 2013. www.bls.gov/ooh/Healthcare/speech-language-pathologists.htm “Speech-Language Pathologist.” Explore Health Careers. American Dental Association, n.d. Web. 4 December 2013.

More about Speech-Language Pathology

Open Document