What is a speech-language pathologist?

What is a speech-language pathologist? What can they help me with? Do I need one?

Keep reading to learn about what speech-language pathologists do and how they can help you:

They are communication experts

Speech-language pathologists are educated and trained in identifying and treating communication difficulties. In order to be a registered speech-language pathologist in Ontario, you have to have a master's degree in speech-language pathology. Speech-language pathologists are also well-versed in areas like linguistics, psychology, and anatomy.

Therefore, speech-language pathologists are trained to diagnose, assess, and treat speech and language disorders in all ages.

They specialize in speech disorders

Speech-language pathologists can help with a variety of speech and language disorders. Some common ones include:

• Stuttering and lisps  
• Social communication problems
• Voice and resonance disorders
• Developmental language disorders

Since most speech difficulties are discovered early on, speech-language pathologists often work with children. However, they also treat adults.

They don't just help with lisps

SLPs can also help improve your professional communication skills, such as using appropriate pacing, tone of voice, and reducing filler words in your job interviews and presentations. They can provide guidance on how you can overcome social communication-related issues, from the use of body language, eye contact, to the ability to maintain a conversation with others. They can also help modify accents to improve clarity and help you gain confidence in your pronunciation.

Want to learn more about how a speech-language pathologist can help you? Book a consultation with us!