Learning the difference between a SLP and a SLP-Assistant
Did you know that your loved one’s speech therapy provider is either a Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP) or Speech Language Pathologist Assistant (SLP-A)?
Who is the SLP?
The SLP is the person in charge of the evaluation and plan of care for your child; they usually hold either a M.A. or M.S. in speech and language pathology. The SLP has the responsibility of evaluating the client and writing a report based on their evaluation. The report will include findings of the SLP’s formal and informal assessments. Goals will be assigned and worked on to help achieve functional communication skills. The SLP will report progress on the goals as time goes by.
Who is the SLP-Assistant?
The SLP-A is the SLP’s assistant. The SLP-A holds a bachelor degree and is certified by the state to assist the SLP and implement the plan of care formulated by the SLP. As an SLP-Assistant, their sole duties are to assist the SLP with their caseload. This includes working on the goals the SLP has formulated for their clients. It is the duty of the SLP-A to choose appropriate toys and activities to reach the client’s goals. Data will be collected each session and reported to SLP.
If you or someone you know needs the services of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, please be sure to discuss your concerns with a physician, a speech-language pathologist, or another qualified provider. You can also find a provider through the ASHA ProFind service or visit us at www.bilingualspeech.org for more information. NOTE: This article is intended only as a general source of information, i.e, it is not intended to replace information given to you by a qualified health professional that is familiar with your particular circumstances. Lastly, if you have an urgent medical need, please seek immediate medical attention.