This is a good question. A SLP is a specialist who works with individuals to improve their communication skills. An SLP may work with stuttering, voice, language and articulation disorders. An SLP may work in a school, hospital, nursing home, private practice, university or other health care setting.

North Carolina approved a program to train SLPAs in order to help SLPs do their jobs. Just as dentists have assistants, SLPs now have SLPAs. The SLPA does not have to be directly observed during every treatment session by the supervising SLP. The SLP may opt to occasionally sit in on a treatment session to observe progress and make changes to treatment plans when needed.

The SLPA registers with the NC Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists and is supervised by a NC licensed SLP. Registered SLPAs must have an Associate’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology Assisting. All SLPAs must pass a competency test.

SLPA’s can:

• Perform screening tests
• Provide therapy following a written plan established by the SLP
• Help with scheduling patients, ordering supplies and filing information
• Help with research activities

SLPA’s cannot:

• Give diagnostic tests or interpret results
• Write or change the treatment plan established by the SLP
• Counsel patients and families relative to speech-language disorders
• Provide treatment without having access to his/her supervisor
• Provide swallowing therapy

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