ABSTRACT
A speech-language pathologist (SLP) is a professional trained to evaluate and treat people who have communication and swallowing disorders. A person must have the required academic training and clinical experience to be certified or licensed as an SLP. The SLP is then able to diagnose and treat disorders across the life span pertaining to speech, language, voice, or swallowing. The specific course requirements and extent of clinical training vary internationally across curricula and awarded degrees. In some countries, professionals may practice as speech therapists with a 2-or 4-year degree. However, the more accepted standard for delivering clinical SLP services requires completion of a Master’s degree. In North America, SLPs become independent practitioners after earning a Master’s degree in communication science and disorders, completing a clinical fellowship year, and receiving a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). An advanced degree may be earned through a clinical doctorate
CONTENTS
14.1 Description of the Professional Profile ........................................................................... 301 14.1.1 Assistive Technology Teams and the SLP ..........................................................303 14.1.2 Evidence-Based Practice and SLPs ......................................................................304 14.1.3 AT Assessments and the SLP ...............................................................................307 14.1.4 Matching Persons With Technology and SLPs ..................................................308 14.1.5 Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Usefulness of the AT .............................. 311 14.1.6 Development and Implementation of AT Intervention Plans ......................... 313 14.1.7 The SLP’s Role in Advocacy ................................................................................. 313 14.1.8 Specific Learning Disabilities .............................................................................. 313
14.2 Case Evaluation in a Multidisciplinary Team or as a Professional Consultant ........ 320 14.2.1 Characterizing the Client ..................................................................................... 320 14.2.2 Step 1: Asking Meaningful EBP Questions ........................................................ 320 14.2.3 Step 2: Collecting Clinical and Personal Evidence ........................................... 321 14.2.4 Step 3: Locating and Reviewing Research Evidence ........................................ 321 14.2.5 Step 4: Using the Evidence .................................................................................... 321
14.3 Conclusions ......................................................................................................................... 322 Summary of the Chapter ............................................................................................................ 323 Acknowledgments ...................................................................................................................... 324 References ..................................................................................................................................... 324
program with an emphasis on medical speech-language and swallowing disorders. The PhD is the terminal degree for the profession.
