Education
How many years of college do you need to become an SLP?
A Bachelors degree (4 yrs) and a Masters degree (2) years are the minimum requirements.
What is Aphasia?
It is an acquired language disorder that results from damage to ones brain, most commonly seen after a stroke.
What is the purpose of EI?
Early Intervention is part of IDEA in which babies and toddlers with a disability receives services: ST, OT, PT, DI, medical services, or psychological.
What does SLP stand for?
Speech-Language Pathologist, Speech Pathologist, Speech Therapist, Speech Teacher
Should I go to an ASHA accredited college?
Yes, you will not be ASHA certified if you don't go to a college that is accredited and you will limit your workplace options.
What is dysphagia?
Dysphagia is a disorder in swallowing. It is often seen as coughing or choking while eating solids and/or liquids.
What is the average SLP salary?
The average hourly rate ranges from $50-$150 an hour or a salary ranging from 50k-150k depending on hours worked, years of experience and the state you reside in. New Jersey- $95,000
What does EI stand for?
Early Intervention
Can I choose a specialty in college?
Most programs require you to learn all areas of the field (medical, educational). However, some colleges have offered "tracts" that allow you to "specialize" in a particular area.
What is cluttering?
This is similar to stuttering where a persons fluency is impacted. The speaker often talks too rapidly and words are very imprecise and garbled.
Can I open a private practice?
Absolutely! You can hang your own shingle and be your own boss.
What does ASHA stand for?
American Speech and Hearing Association, the national credentialing association for audiologists and speech-language pathologist.
How many hours of a clinical practicum do you need to graduate?
400 total hours: 25 are observation and 375 are clinical experience in a hospital, school, rehab center, private practice or EI.
How does an SLP work with patients with a tracheostomy or their vocal folds removed (laryngectomee)?
These are medical issues that impact use of one's vocal folds. A person with a tracheostomy may need a Passy Muir valve to speak and someone who has their vocal folds removed may requires and an artificial larynx.
What age group can I work with after I graduate from a communication disorders program?
Birth to 100
What does CFY stand for?
Clinical Fellowship Year- which is really the first 9 months of employment following gradation from graduate school.
Do I have to pass an exam to become an SLP?
Yes, the Praxis exam is a one time examination of 132 questions that is required after you graduate from your masters degree before you receive your C's (CCC-Certificate of Clinical Competence).
What are some of the unique jobs that SLP's have?
Accent reduction specialists, vocal coaches (actors/singers), sign language interpreters, AAC specialists, researchers, product developers (TPT/ tests, materials), evaluators, case managers for EI.
Do I need any special speech license to work?
Yes, every two years you pay a speech license fee to the state that you live in ($225). You cannot work in other states (i.e. NY) unless you also pay that yearly license fee as well. You may hold licenses in multiple states.
What does AAC stand for?
Alternate and Augmentative Communication: ipad, picture exchange or sign language.