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Speech-Language Pathologist
Career Insights for Speech Language Pathologist
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Based on Tennessee data
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What they do
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.
$81,792 / year median in Tennessee
+10% projected growth
Job Description
- Conducts comprehensive diagnostic evaluations to identify a person's receptive and expressive language skills, processing abilities, voice quality, fluency, articulation, oral motor abilities and functional communication skills.
- Develops and implements individualized treatment plans based on assessment findings, patient goals, and evidence-based practices.
- Provides targeted articulation therapy to improve speech sound production and intelligibility.
- Implements effective language therapy strategies for receptive and expressive language delays or disorders.
- Manages dysphagia , including assessment of swallowing function and provision of appropriate interventions and dietary recommendations.
- Recommends, refers and/or trains patients on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems to facilitate functional communication as needed.
- Addresses cognitive-communication disorders through specialized interventions that target attention, memory, problem-solving, and executive functions.
- Delivers voice therapy to improve vocal quality, pitch, and loudness for individuals with voice disorders.
- Applies fluency therapy techniques to reduce stuttering and improve overall communication flow.
- Educates patients and their families , including information on treatment strategies, and home exercise programs.
- Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic patient care and optimal outcomes.
- Documents patient progress, treatment plans, and discharge summaries accurately and timely.
- Maintains continuing education hours for state licensure.
- Supervises speech-language pathology assistants and students, as needed.
- Participates in community outreach activities to promote the Center in the community, as needed.
- Adheres to professional and ethical standards of practice. Required Qualifications Education
- Holds a Master's or Doctoral degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program. Experience
- Possesses relevant clinical experience in diagnostic evaluation and treatment across diverse populations.
- Holds current Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
- Possesses specialized experience with specific patient populations (e.g., pediatric, geriatric, neurological). Knowledge/Skills
- Demonstrates strong clinical knowledge in Diagnostic Evaluation , Treatment Planning , Articulation Therapy , Language Therapy , Dysphagia Management , Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) , Cognitive-Communication Disorders , Voice Therapy , and Fluency Therapy .
- Applies effective Patient Education techniques.
- Exhibits excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Works collaboratively within a team environment.
- Maintains a patient-centered approach to care.
- Utilizes critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.