Job Overview:

A speech therapist assesses, diagnoses, and provides therapeutic interventions for individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. They work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices, serving clients of all ages.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assessment and Evaluation: Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify speech, language, and communication disorders, and evaluate oral motor skills and swallowing function.
• Diagnosis: Use assessment results to make formal diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Treatment Planning: Create customized treatment plans tailored to each client's specific needs and goals.
• Therapeutic Interventions: Provide therapy sessions to address speech and language difficulties, using exercises, strategies, and techniques to improve communication, articulation, fluency, and voice quality.
• Language Development: Help clients improve their language and vocabulary skills, including grammar, syntax, and semantics.
• Communication Devices: Recommend and utilize augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices for clients needing alternative communication methods.
• Swallowing Disorders: Evaluate and treat individuals with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) and develop safe swallowing strategies.
• Progress Monitoring: Continuously assess clients' progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Education and Counseling: Educate clients, families, and caregivers about speech and language disorders and strategies for improving communication.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other healthcare professionals, educators, and specialists to provide comprehensive care.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate and organized records of client evaluations, treatment plans, and progress.
• Research and Professional Development: Stay updated with the latest research and developments in speech therapy and pursue continuing education to enhance skills and knowledge.