Speech Language Pathologist Assistant

To be a successful Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant you should…

• enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds
• be flexible, patient, and compassionate
• follow directions well

What will my job be like?

Speech-language pathologist assistants assist the speech-language pathologist with speech-language and hearing screenings. They may follow documented treatment plans or protocols developed by the supervising speech-language pathologist, assist with informal documentation, and perform checks/maintenance of equipment. They may also support the supervising speech-language pathologist in research projects, in-service training, and public relations programs.

Where could I work?

Most speech-language pathologist assistants work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or speech and hearing centers. They may work 40 hours per week, and some may work part time.

Other workplace settings:

• Nursing Homes
• Private Practice
• Public Health Departments
• Schools

What is the average annual salary?

$39,500

What is the future of this career?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t provide data specifically for speech-pathology assistants, but it does have data for all medical assistants. The BLS notes that employment opportunities for all of these assistants regardless of specialty were expected to increase 10-15 percent from 2020-2030, which is faster than average.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

Each state has training requirements that range from a high school diploma to a baccalaureate degree plus graduate credit hours, as well as a variety of requirements for supervision. In addition to state regulatory agencies, state education agencies also may credential support personnel to work solely in schools to support service delivery provided by a qualified speech-language pathologist.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Manchester Community College, Manchester
• On-the-job training is received by working with a Certified Speech-Language Pathologist

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.

Where can I get more information?

Connecticut Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Inc.
124 Kennerson Road
Eastford, CT  06242
(860) 377-9066
www.ctspeechhearing.org