Speech Language Pathologist

Speech Language Pathologist

Laurel Van Fossen, SLP

  • Complete a bachelor’s degree in a related field
  • Complete a master’s degree in speech-language pathology
  • Pass the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology

Scope of practice may include one or more of the following:

  1. Examination of the oral mechanism for the purposes of determining adequacy for speech communication and swallowing
  2. Screening to include: Speech and language
  3. Assessment may include language, speech, swallowing, cognitive aspects of communication, central auditory processing disorders, social aspects of communication, and augmentative and alternative communication
  4. Habilitation and rehabilitation of communication and swallowing

Healthcare Team:

Speech-language pathologists are essential components of the interprofessional team caring for patients with voice or swallowing complaints. This team will often include one or more physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, healthcare providers, and many others. Working in collaboration and communication with each other will help in early identification of patients in need of SLP evaluation and therapy, and help improve patient outcomes.