Learn About the CSD Professions: Speech-Language Pathology

About Speech-Language Pathology

Speech disorders occur when a person is unable to produce speech sounds correctly or fluently, or has problems with their voice or resonance. Language disorders occur when a person has trouble understanding others (receptive language), or sharing thoughts, ideas, and feelings (expressive language). Read more.

Careers in Speech-Language Pathology

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work to prevent, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in children and adults.

Employment Settings

SLPs work in many different research, education, and health care settings with varying roles, levels of responsibility, and client populations. Because of the high demand for speech-language pathology services, part-time, full-time, and "as needed" basis opportunities may be available depending on location, desired facility, employment flexibility, and other factors. In many settings, SLPs often work as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team, which may include teachers, physicians, audiologists, psychologists, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, and rehabilitation counselors.

Salary Information

Salaries of SLPs depend on educational background, experience, work setting, and geographic location.

Market Trends in Speech-Language Pathology

Of the 211,000 members and affiliates whom ASHA represents, 181,628 are certified SLPs and 785 hold dual certification as both audiologists and SLPs. The professions of speech-language pathology and audiology continue to grow for a variety of reasons.