Speech-Language Pathologists: The Voices Behind Society

By: Apeksha Agarwal

Speech-Language Pathologists, often called SLPs,  are healthcare professionals who specialize in treating patients with speech and swallowing disorders. But their focus isn’t just on speech, but also on improving the patient’s quality of life. Instead of just working with one part of the body, SLPs address the body as a whole, researching the connection between the mouth, throat, and brain. But let’s look into their scope of practice.

When people initially think of Speech-Language Pathologists, children with lisps is the first thought that comes to mind. While this is a huge majority of their patients, their practice extends way beyond. SLPs are trained to design personalized treatment plans according to their patients which could include language therapy, swallowing and speech exercises, and the use of assistive technology. They work with a wide range of patients, from children with speech delays to adults recovering from injuries or disorders. Many SLPs even specialize in areas such as dysphagia which is a swallowing disorder, voice therapy, or stuttering. 

To reach this level, SLPs go through years of training and education ensuring the best care for their patients. Firstly they must obtain their bachelor’s degree and complete the necessary prerequisites such as psychology or communication sciences. After, they must complete a speech-language masters course in which they will both learn and do clinicals in. After their master’s they must pass the national exam to earn their certification and go through a supervised fellowship. Altogether to become a licensed SLP it takes about 6-7 years of higher education and training. 

Many people believe that once an SLP helps their patient speak words their job is done. But in reality SLPs are with you each step of the way. They coordinate closely with nurses, doctors, therapists, teachers and even family to ensure the patient is thriving in an everyday setting. They dress the psychological, social, and emotional aspects of swallowing and communication difficulties. 

In conclusion, Speech-Language Pathologists are essential to our society yet are often overlooked. From helping a child say their first words to helping an adult in eating, their work directly impacts the independence, confidence, and dignity of a person. SLPs will remain vital, reminding us that communication is not just a skill but also a form of connection.  

Works Cited 

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (n.d.). Speech-Language Pathologists - Job description and career information. https://www.asha.org/students/speech-language-pathologists/?srsltid=AfmBOooXN1G80In8mJVjJON8z0YRo-eR7c3uV8Wa7H9qyEMoGX9bDlNl

Professional, C. C. M. (2025, May 16). Speech-Language pathologist. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24602-speech-language-pathologist

Speech Pathology Degrees, Find an Online SLP Program. (2025, April 4). Online Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Programs in Maryland | SLP schools and Degrees in MD. Speech Pathology Degrees | Find an Online SLP Program | Ready to Start Your SLP Career? Earn Your Degree in Speech-language Pathology by Finding an Online SLP Master’s Program. Discover New Career Paths, Licensing Requirements & Certifications. https://www.speechpathologygraduateprograms.org/maryland/