What is an “SLP”

I’ve loved talking ever since I can remember. I talk to family, friends, to pets, and even to myself the majority of the time that I am alone. I was first introduced to speech and language pathology by my aunt when I was in high school. I immediately knew it was the perfect job for me, specifically because of the combination of science and language, with a strong emphasis on interaction with people.

So, what is a speech and language pathologist? Well according to the American speech language hearing Association (ASHA), a speech and language pathologist (SLP) is defined as someone who works to prevent, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in children and adults.

When would I benefit from seeing a speech-language pathologist and using their services? Well this is a great question; the field and speech-language pathology is so wide that a speech therapist can really help with a wide variety of issues your child might be having. Here are just some of the areas that a speech therapist could help with:

If you notice your child has difficult with any of the following:

  • Being understood- either by family or unfamiliar listeners
  • Being a “picky” eater
  • Being able to chew different textures/consistencies
  • Social situations or interacting with peers
  • Hoarse, scratchy vocal quality
  • Communicating basic needs and wants
  • Following directions
  • Answering/Asking questions
  • Repeats words or syllables frequently
  • Putting words together with simple grammatical structure
  • Understanding basic concepts such as prepositions, opposites, or simple conversations
  • Making eye contact

That list is just the tip of the iceberg for what a speech therapist can help your child with. If notice that your child is having any difficulty with any of those things or any other issue related to communicating, speaking, listening, or understanding please feel free to contact us with any questions that you may have or to talk to us about the concerns that you have!

-Kasey-