My Career:

What does a Speech-Language Pathologist do?

“OHHH, you just help kids fix their “R’s” right?” YES AND NO. We do so much more!

SLP’s have different areas of focus depending on the population they are working with. See below for further details and contact me for any questions!

Pediatrics (0-21 years of age):

• Articulation/Phonology: pronunciation of specific speech sounds and speech patterns.

• Expressive Language: overall “expression” of verbal communication (putting together words, using correct forms of sentences, labeling, naming, and more!)

• Receptive Language: understanding spoken language (following directions, comprehending word meanings, responding appropriately to “Wh” questions, and more!)

• Fluency: also known as stuttering . Repetitions of sounds/words: “I,I,I,I like to go outside,” Blocks: “I——-like to go outside,” Prolongations: “IIIII-like to go outside.”

• Literacy/Written Language Disorders: writing and reading disorders.

• AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication- using other forms of communication such as a speech-generated device, PECS (picture exchange communication system, or other systems to encourage verbal output

  Adults (ages 22 +):

• Cognitive disorder: most often decline secondary to Alzheimer's disease or Dementia

• Dysphasia and Swallowing: disorders following a stroke/ injury that impacts diet and eating

• Fluency/Stuttering: Repetitions of sounds/words: “I,I,I,I like to go outside,” Blocks: “I——-like to go outside,” Prolongations: “IIIII-like to go outside.”

• Acquired Apraxia: motor planning disorder making speech output difficult.

• Dysarthria: speech disorder often following a neurologic injury that results in labored/difficult speech output

• Aphasia: often following strokes or brain trauma

• Speech Sound Disorders/ Articulation: pronunciation of specific speech sounds