What Is a Speech-Language Pathologist

1. What Is a Speech-Language Pathologist? Many people are familiar with the term "speech therapist," but the formal title for these professionals isspeech-language pathologist (SLP). SLPs are highly trained clinicians who can work with individuals across all age groups to prevent, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders. Their expertise extends far beyond just speech sounds; they address a wide range of issues from articulation to social communication and even cognitive-communication deficits. What an SLP Does An SLP addresses communication challenges and disorders, such as dyslexia and Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). They may work with children and adults in various settings like schools, hospitals, and private practices. For example, at Educational Inspiration, Nicole Power, an SLP and reading specialist, offers private evaluations for children ages 5-17 struggling with reading, spelling, and spoken language. How SLPs Conduct Educational Assessments Educational assessments are a comprehensive evaluation tool used to understand a student's learning profile and pinpoint areas where they might need support. SLPs are uniquely qualified to administer these assessments. They can assess a student’s communication skills, including their ability to comprehend spoken language, express themselves effectively, and utilize language in social contexts. These assessments are often a key part of deciding next steps for support, which may include special education services and developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). While the specific assessment methods may depend on the professional performing the evaluation and the child’s needs, an assessment conducted by a speech-language pathologist might involve a combination of formal and informal measures. Formal measures can include standardized tests that evaluate a child’s performance. Informal measures might involve observing the child in different settings, analyzing a language sample, or speaking with teachers and parents. Dyslexia Evaluations at Educational Inspiration At Educational Inspiration, our dyslexia evaluation process offers a comprehensive understanding of a child’s reading and language needs and abilities. Our evaluations are led by a highly trained SLP who integrates family insights, standardized tests, and clinical expertise to capture a complete picture of the child’s learning profile. This allows our SLP to accurately identify if reading and language challenges, such as DLD and dyslexia, are present.

2. What to Expect on Test Day A single evaluation session is about 2.5 hours long. Family members can either wait in the waiting room or run nearby errands, but we ask that you keep your phone with you. The session includes short "brain breaks" for your child to use the restroom, play games, have a snack, or just move around. Afterward, it's common for children to feel sleepy, hungry, or both, as testing requires a lot of energy. Frequently Asked Questions About SLPs Here are some common questions and answers to help you understand when and why to seek support from a speech-language pathologist. How can I tell if my child needs to see an SLP? Signs that your child may benefit from seeing an SLP include difficulty being understood by others, struggling to follow directions, delayed speech or language milestones, and experiencing stuttering or disfluency. If you notice any of these challenges, it may be helpful to consult an SLP for an evaluation and support. What's the difference between a speech therapist and an SLP? There is no difference. The terms are often used interchangeably, but an SLP is the official title for a certified professional in this field. Do SLPs only work with children? SLPs are skilled in working with people at every stage of life, from early childhood to advanced age. At Educational Inspiration, our dyslexia evaluations are for children ages 5-17. Take the Next Step for Your Child's Success If you're concerned about your child's communication or reading skills, seeking expert guidance is the best course of action. At Educational Inspiration we understand the complexities of learning and communication challenges. We are focused on delivering detailed and comprehensive evaluations. We provide personalized support that goes beyond a simple diagnosis, creating a clear path for your child’s academic and personal growth. Our goal is to empower your child with the tools they need to succeed and thrive. Don't wait to get the answers you need. Contact us today and learn how we can help your child unlock their full potential.