Speech-Language Pathology: The Profession

A student works with a child in one of the speech clinic rooms

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) evaluate and treat children and adults who are unable to produce speech correctly or fluently, or have problems with their voice. SLPs also help individuals with who have difficulty with receptive language (understanding others) or expressive language (sharing thoughts, ideas, and feelings). Finally, SLPs work with children and adults who have difficulty swallowing food or liquid.

Some SLPs specialize in working with children, and some with adults. You can find SLPs in many different work settings: schools, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, private clinics, early intervention programs, universities, and government agencies. You can find more information about a career as an SLP on the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association website.