What is a speech-language pathologist?

What is a speech-language pathologist? What can they help me with? Do I need one?

Keep reading to learn about what speech-language pathologists do and how they can help you:

They are communication experts

Speech-language pathologists are educated and trained in identifying and treating communication difficulties. In order to be a registered speech-language pathologist in Ontario, you have to have a master's degree in speech-language pathology. Speech-language pathologists are also well-versed in areas like linguistics, psychology, and anatomy.

Therefore, speech-language pathologists are trained to diagnose, assess, and treat speech and language disorders in all ages.

They specialize in speech disorders

Speech-language pathologists can help with a variety of speech and language disorders. Some common ones include:

• Stuttering and lisps  
• Social communication problems
• Voice and resonance disorders
• Swallowing disorders

Since most speech difficulties are discovered early on, speech-language pathologists often work with children. However, they also treat adults.

They don't just help with lisps

Speech-language pathologists don't only treat lisps and stuttering. They specialize in many other language disorders too, such as:

• Accent modification (historically known as accent reduction)
• Socializing (e.g. building and maintaining relationships)
• Literacy skills (e.g. reading comprehension)
• Communication disorders from neurological impairments (e.g. dementia)

They have many responsibilities

Speech-language pathologists are responsible for all aspects of a client's speech care.

Daily tasks include:

• Assessing the communication skills of clients
• Providing guidance and advice to clients
• Identifying and prioritizing client goals
• Tracking client progress through data collectio

Want to learn more about how a speech-language pathologist can help you? Visit our blog to learn more about common speech mistakes.