What is a Speech-Language Pathologist?

Speech-language pathologists (sometimes informally referred to as speech therapists) are professionals educated in the study of human communication, its development, and its disorders. The therapist determines what communication, oral-motor, or swallowing problems exist and the best way to treat them. The primary purposes of speech-language therapy are to help individuals overcome and prevent communication and swallowing problems. Family education and involvement are key components of an individual’s therapy program.

Speech Therapy atThe HSC Pediatric Center

The department consists of a collaborative group of speech-language pathologists dedicated to the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of speech, language, cognitive, feeding, and swallowing disorders for children of all ages (birth-21). The speech-language pathologist works among an interdisciplinary team to offer comprehensive developmental and rehabilitative services for children with a wide variety of diagnosis and levels of ability in the inpatient and outpatient settings.

Individualized evaluations and therapy programs may address:

• Language disorders including language comprehension, formulation, and pragmatics
• Speech disorders including articulation, voice, and fluency (stuttering)
• Swallowing disorders including oral-motor dysfunction, feeding, and pre-feeding skills
• Learning disorders affecting areas of academic function including reading and writing
• Neurologically based communication disorders including dysarthria, apraxia, aphasia, and cognitive skills training
• Developmental evaluation for high-risk infants
• Assistive technology or alternative communication

Speech-Language Pathologists are involved in the following programs at The HSC Pediatric Center:

• Feeding Management Program
• Equipment Clinic
• Assistive Technology
• Aquatic Therapy
• Preemie Express
• Comprehensive Inpatient Rehabilitation
• Outpatient Clinic

Professional Credentials

All therapists have completed their Master’s degree from an accredited university, hold state licensure, and have been granted or are working towards a Certificate of Clinical Competence as issued by the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA). Additional certifications include: Assistive Technology Practitioner and Certified Lactation Counselor

Professional Affiliations

American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA)

The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)

Speech Therapy, call (202) 635-4496