Speech-Language Pathology Assistants

What the job really is

Assist speech-language pathologists in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. Implement speech and language programs or activities as planned and directed by speech-language pathologists. Monitor the use of alternative communication devices and systems.

At a glance

• Sector: Healthcare Support
• O*NET-SOC code: 31-9099
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 11
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Document clients' progress toward meeting established treatment objectives.
• Implement treatment plans or protocols as directed by speech-language pathologists.
• Collect and compile data to document clients' performance or assess program quality.
• Perform support duties, such as preparing materials, keeping records, maintaining supplies, and scheduling activities.
• Assist speech-language pathologists in the remediation or development of speech and language skills.
• Select or prepare speech-language instructional materials.
• Assist speech-language pathologists in the conduct of client screenings or assessments of language, voice, fluency, articulation, or hearing.
• Prepare charts, graphs, or other visual displays to communicate clients' performance information.
• Test or maintain equipment to ensure correct performance.
• Conduct in-service training sessions, or family and community education programs.
• Assist speech-language pathologists in the conduct of speech-language research projects.

Tools and technology

Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, Adobe Audition, Airflow measurement devices, Alternative computer keyboards, Biofeedback software, Bungalow Software Aphasia Tutor, Circumaural headphones, Closed circuit television CCTV surveillance systems, Communications boards

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Occupational Therapy Aides
• Occupational Therapy Assistants
• Audiologists
• Psychiatric Technicians
• Occupational Therapists
• Low Vision Therapists, Orientation and Mobility Specialists, and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists
• Physical Therapist Aides

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Speech-Language Pathology Assistants — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.