A Speech Language Pathologist diagnoses and treats speech, language, and swallowing disorders in patients with a variety of conditions. Helps patients improve their ability to make sounds or use language, or develop non-spoken means of communication. May specialize in working with patients of a certain age group, or treat speech problems resulting from a condition such as a stroke or cleft palate. Works in schools, hospitals and other healthcare facilities and works closely with physicians, psychologists, social workers, and other therapists.
The Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of speech, language, voice, communication, and feeding/swallowing disorders in infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents. The SLP works closely with families, caregivers, educators, and medical professionals to support the development of functional communication skills and address developmental or acquired disorders in a child-centered, evidence-based manner.
Key Responsibilities:
Conduct age-appropriate evaluations to assess speech, language, communication, and feeding/swallowing abilities in children from birth through adolescence. Develop and implement individualized treatment plans to address speech articulation, phonological disorders, language delays, fluency (stuttering), social/pragmatic language skills, voice disorders, and augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) needs. Treat feeding and swallowing disorders, including pediatric dysphagia, using safe and developmentally appropriate methods. Provide play-based and functional therapy that engages young children in natural settings when appropriate. Collaborate with families to support carryover of therapy goals into home and community environments. Work as part of an interdisciplinary team, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, teachers, and physicians, to support comprehensive developmental care. Participate in Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) when applicable. Maintain thorough and timely documentation, progress reports, and insurance or school-based billing records. Educate and coach parents and caregivers to facilitate language-rich environments and reinforce therapeutic strategies.
Required Qualifications:
Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program. Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) or Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) in progress. State licensure to practice as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Pediatric experience through clinical rotations, internships, or work settings. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with children and families.
Preferred Qualifications:
Specialized training or experience in early intervention (birth-3), AAC, or pediatric feeding/swallowing. Bilingual abilities (e.g., Spanish, ASL) highly valued. Familiarity with educational and developmental screening tools.
