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Speech-Language Pathology Assistants


Overview

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants

Introduction

Speech-language pathology assistants assist speech-language pathologists in assessing and treating people with speech and language disorders. They identify the problem, use tests to further evaluate it, and establish objectives to improve clients' speech and language skills. Assistants work closely with pathologists to create and implement treatment plans for patients and document their progress. Speech-language pathology assistants may work for school systems, in private practice, and at clinics and other medical facilities. There ...

Quick Facts


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Median Salary

$49,005

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Employment Prospects

Good

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Minimum Education Level

Associate's Degree


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Experience

Two or more years experience
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Skills

Interpersonal
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Personality Traits

Helpful
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Earnings

Speech-language pathology assistants (SLPA) employed in the United States in July 2020 earned about $49,005 per year, according to PayScale.com. Salaries ranged from $30,999 to $66,442. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that in May 2019, health care support workers, all other, earned a median salary of $38,460. Salaries ranged from $23,790 or less to $58,500 or more. Those that worked in the...

Work Environment

Most speech-language pathology assistants work 40 hours a week at a desk or table in clean, comfortable surroundings. Some travel may be required for work in different schools and pathology facilities. The job is not physically demanding but does require attention to detail and intense concentration. Patience and empathy is also required for handling the emotional needs of clients and their fam...

Outlook

The outlook for speech-language pathology assistants is bright. Much faster than average employment growth is expected for this profession through 2028. A short-term stall in job growth is projected due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has caused many businesses and schools to close temporarily in 2020. However, job growth for speech-language pathology assistants will pick up speed again at s...