Speech-language pathologist
Speech-language pathologist
A Speech-language pathologist (pronunciation: /spiːtʃ ˈleɪŋɡwɪdʒ pəˈθɒlədʒɪst/), also known as a speech therapist, is a specialist who diagnoses and treats communication and swallowing disorders in patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly.
Etymology
The term "Speech-language pathologist" is derived from the words "speech" and "language", referring to the areas of communication they address, and "pathologist", which refers to a specialist in the study and treatment of disease.
Role and Responsibilities
A Speech-language pathologist's responsibilities include assessing, diagnosing, treating, and helping to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in patients. These disorders may be a result of a variety of causes, such as stroke, brain injury, hearing loss, developmental delay, Parkinson’s disease, a cleft palate, or autism.
Related Terms
- Aphasia: A condition that robs you of the ability to communicate.
- Dysarthria: A motor speech disorder resulting from neurological injury.
- Stuttering: A communication disorder involving disruptions or disfluencies in a person's speech.
- Dysphagia: Difficulty or discomfort in swallowing.
- Audiologist: A healthcare professional who provides patient-centered care in the prevention, identification, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment of hearing, balance, and other auditory disorders.
Education and Certification
In most countries, a master's degree in speech-language pathology is required to become a professional Speech-language pathologist. The program typically includes both coursework and clinical practicum experiences. After completing the degree, a clinical fellowship under the supervision of a licensed and experienced Speech-language pathologist is usually required. Finally, a national examination on speech-language pathology practices must be passed to become certified.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Speech-language pathologist
- Wikipedia's article - Speech-language pathologist
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