What does an SLP do?

They just help people talk right? Like if a kid can't say the "r" sound?

Well, yes, an SLP DOES help kids talk, but the role of an SLP (Speech-Language Pathologist...commonly referred to as a Speech therapist) is SOOO much more.

I was talking to a friend about her son's struggles with ADHD and his executive function. Kids with ADHD have a hard time attending to non-preferred tasks, yes. But they can also have issues with memory, planning, and more. Did you know an SLP can help with those strategies and skills?

We can also help with kids who don't speak verbally. Maybe they have autism or a neurological disorder. We can get help a family trial something called an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. It looks like (and can even be) an ipad or tablet, and has buttons specifically organized to help a kid communicate. We can help the child and family start to use that and implement in daily routines.

Got an EXTREMELY picky eater? Or a kid who is older but still can only eat pureed food? Yup. We can help them too!

I can really go on and on! Want to know the full scope of practice? Check out our national organization to read more https://www.asha.org/policy/sp2016-00343/.

Not all SLPs are experts in all areas. That would be impossible since we can work with people from birth to end of life. We can work in schools, private practices, nursing homes, hospital, acute, long term....etc.

Many SLPs specialize in one or a few areas. BUT the amazing thing is that we have so much knowledge to build on. If we become more interested in one area or need we can incorporate that into our practice.

I started out as an SLP in the early intervention (birth to three) setting. I still LOVE that population but have also found joy and interest in feeding therapy, fluency/stuttering, AAC, working with kids with autism... and more. It's the perfect field for someone who is a lifelong learner.

The SLP field is broad and exciting. SLPs can serve and help so many people and families. I invite you to reach out and see if an SLP is what your kiddo needs!