What Is a Speech-Language Pathologist?

Have you ever wondered who helps people find their voice—literally? Whether it's a child struggling to say their first words or an adult recovering from a stroke, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are the professionals who step in to make communication possible.

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), “Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work to prevent, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in children and adults” (ASHA, 2024). It’s a wide-ranging field with a deep impact on individuals' quality of life.

Where Do SLPs Work?

One of the great things about becoming an SLP is the variety of settings you can work in. From private practices and schools to hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and skilled nursing facilities, speech-language pathologists can tailor their careers to fit their interests and strengths. Some even specialize in working with specific populations—like children with autism or adults with neurological disorders.

The Path to Becoming an SLP

1. Education Starts with a Bachelor's Degree

The first step is earning a bachelor’s degree, usually in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) or a related field. This lays the groundwork for understanding human communication and its many complexities.

2. Graduate School and Clinical Training

Next comes a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology, which provides both academic knowledge and hands-on clinical experience. After graduation, candidates must pass the Praxis exam—a national certification test that ensures they're ready to enter the profession.

3. The Clinical Fellowship (CF)

Passing the Praxis exam is a major milestone, but the journey isn’t over yet. New graduates enter a Clinical Fellowship, a supervised professional experience that bridges the gap between student and independent clinician. It’s a crucial period of growth, allowing Clinical Fellows to hone their skills, build confidence, and gain real-world insight into their strengths and areas for development.

Earning Certification: CCC-SLP

After successfully completing the Clinical Fellowship and meeting all other requirements, SLPs can apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA. This certification is more than just a title—it’s a nationally recognized symbol of excellence, professionalism, and dedication to the highest standards in the field.

Want to Learn More?

Whether you're a student considering this path or someone looking to make a career change, becoming an SLP is a meaningful and rewarding journey. You can find more information about the profession, educational programs, and certification requirements by visiting the ASHA website.

Reference:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (2024). Speech-language pathologists. https://www.asha.org/public/who-are-speech-language-pathologists/