Speech-Langauge Pathologists: Definitions

Excerpted from the Briggs and Associates Newsletter, Fall 2002

We are aware that there is confusion about what we call ourselves. The preferred term for a licensed, certified, independent professional is speech-language pathologist. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) holds, at minimum, a masters degree from an accredited university and has completed a carefully designed sequence of courses. The courses cover both theory and practice, basic science and application. 375 hours of supervised clinical experience are required for graduation. Graduates must pass a comprehensive examination and spend 9 months employed as a clinical fellow (CF). Finally when all requirements are met, individuals may apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), our national professional organization, and a state license. To maintain both national certification and state licensure, speech-language pathologists must complete 12 hours of continuing education each year.

In some settings where you will find speech-language pathologists employed (e.g., public schools), a state license and national certification are not required. The California Department of Education allows individuals with emergency teaching certificates to work with students with speech and language problems and also hires speech-language aides (similar to teaching aides) to assist certificated professionals. Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations requires that parents give consent before services can be provided by a speech-language aide in public schools.

In many settings (e.g., hospitals, private practices) speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs) are now being used to work with both children and adults. This is yet another category of paraprofessionals helping people with communication needs. These paraprofessionals are required to have an associates degree from an accredited community college. They complete specialized coursework and fieldwork assignments. Upon completion of all requirements, they receive a state license. SLPAs are required by ASHA to disclose their status and may not represent themselves as licensed professionals. They work closely under direct supervision of licensed, certified speech-language pathologists

All members of the Briggs and Associates team are licensed by the State of California (you will see "SP#" on our business cards and correspondence) and hold the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP). Therefore, we are all speech-language pathologists. As members of the ASHA, we abide by the Code of Ethics. Because we specialize in young children, we all have experience working with children and families. If you have any questions about qualifications, certification, and licensing, ask us or contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Bureau at www.slpab.ca.gov or 916 263-2666.

Confusing? Yes, but there are guidelines and regulations at both the state and national levels to protect consumers and provide the best possible services to people with communication needs.

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