Speech Therapist
Summary
Assess and treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. May select alternative communication systems and teach their use.
Examples of Work
Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description. These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.
- Analyze and diagnose the nature and extent of speech, language, fluency, voice and swallowing impairments, by evaluating test results and medical or background information.
- Develop a plan of care for the client.
- Teach clients how to communicate by teaching them how to make sounds, improve their voices, or increase their oral or written language skills.
- Teach clients how to strengthen tongue, jaw, face muscles and breathing mechanisms or how to use compensatory strategies.
- Counsel clients’ family members on how to deal with communication disorders.
- Monitor clients’ progress and adjust treatments accordingly.
- Keep records on the initial evaluation, progress and discharge of clients.
- Confer with other professionals such as education, medical, dental and other health professionals.
- Conduct research related to speech and language problems.
- Design and develop techniques or equipment for diagnosing and treating speech problems
Education and Experience
Master’s degree with a major emphasis in speech-language pathology.
Licensure and Certification
Licensed as a Speech-Language Pathologist in accordance with in accordance with Section 468, Florida Statutes. and Rule Chapter 64B20, F.A.C.
Supervision
None
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