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Speech-Language Pathologist

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are health professionals devoted to improving communication skills in children and adults. Estimates show that one-in-ten Americans suffer from loss of hearing or speech problems, such as stuttering or the inability to form certain sounds. These communication problems can occur at birth or they can develop later in life as the result of a major illness or injury, such as a stroke or head-trauma injury. Children who have difficulty speaking, hearing, or understanding language cannot participate fully with others in play or classroom activities. Often these children are thought to have mental or emotional problems when, in fact, the problem is one of language or hearing. Adults with speech, language or hearing impairments may have problems on the job and withdraw socially to avoid frustration and embarrassment. Because hearing and speech are so closely related, it is necessary for audiologists and speech pathologists to understand both areas and maintain a close-working relationship. In addition, both professionals work with physicians, psychologists, counselors, physical therapists and occupational therapists.

Speech-language pathologists are concerned with language, speech development and speech improvement of the speech impaired. Speech and voice disorders can be a result of hearing loss, brain injuries and mental retardation, cleft palate, foreign dialect or emotional problems. Speech-language pathologists evaluate these disorders, provide appropriate counseling, vocational guidance and education, rehabilitation, as well as medical treatment. A wide variety of tests requiring scientific knowledge of techniques and equipment are administered by speech-language pathologists.