Career & application guide

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants

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What do speech-language pathology assistants do?

Assist speech-language pathologists in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. Implement speech and language programs or activities as planned and directed by speech-language pathologists. Monitor the use of alternative communication devices and systems.

This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.

Job titles to recognize in your search

O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.

  • Communication Assistant
  • Speech Assistant
  • Speech Paraeducator
  • Speech Pathologist Assistant
  • Speech Therapy Assistant
  • Speech-Language Assistant
  • Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA)
  • Speech-Language Pathologists Assistant (SLPA)

Core tasks to compare with a job posting

  • Document clients' progress toward meeting established treatment objectives.
  • Implement treatment plans or protocols as directed by speech-language pathologists.
  • Collect and compile data to document clients' performance or assess program quality.
  • Perform support duties, such as preparing materials, keeping records, maintaining supplies, and scheduling activities.
  • Assist speech-language pathologists in the remediation or development of speech and language skills.
  • Select or prepare speech-language instructional materials.
  • Assist speech-language pathologists in the conduct of client screenings or assessments of language, voice, fluency, articulation, or hearing.
  • Prepare charts, graphs, or other visual displays to communicate clients' performance information.

Prepare an application for this occupation

  1. Check the employer’s requirements, location, schedule and any licenses against your situation.
  2. Choose two or three tasks above that match the posting and your actual experience.
  3. Build a resume evidence worksheet using the skills and software relevant to that employer.
  4. Practice explaining your contribution, decisions and results before an interview.

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