A speech-language pathologist (SLP) or speech therapist works with individuals who experience difficulties with swallowing and communication. These incredible healthcare professionals play a vital role in patients’ personal and professional success. Effective communication is fundamental for building strong relationships. SLP’s use a wide variety of techniques to help individuals build their confidence and transform their lives through schools, hospitals, and private clinics.
What is a Speech Language Pathologist?
A speech-language pathologist, or an SLP, is a healthcare professional that treats and diagnoses conditions that affect someone’s ability to communicate or swallow. SLPs don’t just help individuals struggling with a speech impediment, their expertise spans to a wide range of communication challenges. Whether a client’s disorder was developed from a neurological condition, a physical impairment, or a developmental delay, SLPs tailor their therapy approach to each individual’s specific needs. SLPs work with people of all ages, backgrounds, and genders. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals, educators, and families to create comprehensive treatment plans. They are crucial in helping both children and adults overcome challenges related to speech, language, voice, and fluency.
Types of Speech Therapy
Since SLPs work with a number of speech and swallowing disorders, there are a bunch of different therapy approaches. Depending on the client’s individual challenges, SLPs may use the following different types of therapy including:
- Articulation Therapy
- Language Intervention Therapy
- Oral Motor Therapy
- Lee Silverman Speech Therapy (LSVT)
- Modeling Techniques
- VitalStim Therapy
Where Do Speech Language Pathologists Work?
You can find speech-language pathologists in numerous different settings. Speech language pathologist work settings include:
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Private Clinics
- Rehabilitation Centers
SLPs work in diverse environments. However, one of the most in demand areas for SLPs in New Jersey is school-based speech therapy. School-based SLPs help students that are on the spectrum, have suffered a medical injury, students who are experiencing a developmental delay, and more. A school-based SLP will also play a crucial part in students’ IEPs.
School-Based SLP Jobs in NJ
Many SLPs end up working for school districts where they help children develop essential communication skills needed for academic and social success. School-based SLPs support students with:
- Language delays and disorders
- Fluency disorders such as stuttering
- Speech sound disorders
- Social communication challenges
- Argumentative and alternative communication needs
Why Consider an SLP Job in New Jersey?
New Jersey currently has a high demand for speech language pathologists, particularly in school settings. If you’re a recent graduate looking to start your career as a speech language pathologist, consider becoming a school-based SLP in NJ. New Jersey is a great place to get your foot in the door due to:
- High and competitive salaries
- Diverse work environments
- Increasing demand for school-based SLPs
- Opportunities for growth
Conclusion
Speech language pathologists are indispensable professionals who break down communication barriers and help their clients achieve independence. Whether working in a hospital, school, or private practice, SLPs make a difference in someone’s life every single day. Being a speech language pathologist is a very rewarding and fulfilling career. Whether you’re a recent college graduate or an experienced SLP, Horizon Staffing Resources can help you find a new opportunity. Take a look at our current open jobs or send in your resume today and one of our dedicated recruiters will connect you with the SLP job of your dreams!
