How to Become a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA)
Have you ever met someone with a speech impediment? I’ve known people who stutter or can’t get words out very well, and I would wonder why they talked that way. After I took a speech class in college, I learned about speech therapy, and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the field.
The individuals who are most affected by these kinds of speech issues are, unfortunately, often children. That’s why I’ve been working this summer at a camp for kids with developmental disabilities. As I help the kids improve their speech, I know that I’ll be able to build upon my passion and become a great speech-language pathologist assistant.
Speech-Language Pathologist Assistants: What They Do
Speech-language pathologist assistants (SLPAs) provide direct and indirect services to clients under the supervision of a speech-language pathologist (SLP). SLPAs help clients improve their communication skills, which can include speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders. SLPAs work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Some of the duties of an SLPA include:
- Assessing clients’ speech, language, voice, and swallowing skills
- Developing and implementing treatment plans for clients
- Providing therapy to clients
- Documenting client progress
- Collaborating with other professionals, such as SLPs, teachers, and parents
Education and Training
To become an SLPA, you must complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or a related field. You must also complete a supervised clinical practicum. Once you have completed your education and training, you must pass a national certification exam.
There are a number of accredited SLPA programs available. You can find a list of accredited programs on the website of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). ASHA is the professional organization for SLPs and SLPAs.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for SLPAs is expected to be good over the next few years. This is due to the increasing demand for speech-language pathology services. As the population ages, the number of people with speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders is expected to increase.
The median annual salary for SLPAs was $59,110 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,520, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $88,810.
Tips for Becoming an SLPA
If you are interested in becoming an SLPA, here are a few tips:
- Get involved in volunteer or work experiences that allow you to work with clients who have speech, language, voice, or swallowing disorders.
- Join ASHA and attend their conferences and workshops.
- Network with SLPs and SLPAs in your area.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest research in speech-language pathology.
- Be prepared to work hard and dedicate yourself to helping others.
Becoming an SLPA is a rewarding career that allows you to make a difference in the lives of others. If you are passionate about helping people with speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders, then an SLPA career may be the right choice for you.
FAQ
What is the difference between an SLPA and an SLP?
SLPAs work under the supervision of SLPs. SLPs have a master’s degree in speech-language pathology, while SLPAs have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or a related field.
What are the different settings in which SLPAs work?
SLPAs work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
How much do SLPAs make?
The median annual salary for SLPAs was $59,110 in May 2021.
What is the job outlook for SLPAs?
The job outlook for SLPAs is expected to be good over the next few years.
Conclusion
If you are interested in a career that allows you to help others improve their communication skills, then becoming an SLPA may be the right choice for you. With the right training and education, you can become a valuable member of the speech-language pathology team and make a difference in the lives of children and adults who have speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders.
Are you interested in learning more about becoming an SLPA?
