A Day in the Life of a Speech Language Pathologist: Insights from a Working Professional

Imagine a career where every day holds the potential to change lives, where words and sounds come to life, and communication barriers are broken. This is the daily experience of a speech-language pathologist (SLP).

SLPs are experts in helping people of all ages find their voice, whether by improving speech clarity, reducing stuttering, or teaching alternative communication methods. With compassion, patience, and specialized skills, SLPs empower people to connect, express, and thrive – making every day uniquely rewarding and impactful!

But don’t just take our word for it. If you’re considering a career as an SLP but are unsure what to expect, we’ve got you covered. We spoke with Elizabeth Warrick, M.S., CCC-SLP, UXC, to get the inside scoop on what being an SLP is really like. Here’s what she had to say:

What to Expect as a Speech-Language Pathologist

What does a typical day as a speech-language pathologist look like?

An SLP can expect a diverse daily routine significantly influenced by their specific work setting. In schools, SLPs often engage in group therapy sessions, prepare materials, develop individualized education plans (IEPs), participate in IEP meetings, and collaborate with educators and parents.

Conversely, SLPs working in private or medical settings typically conduct individual therapy sessions, utilize play therapy techniques, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, handle insurance billing, and perform feeding and swallowing evaluations.

What is the most rewarding part of working as an SLP?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an SLP is witnessing the “lightbulb moment” when a client achieves a breakthrough. Whether working with children or adults, witnessing a client’s progress and understanding of therapeutic objectives is incredibly fulfilling. The time invested in planning, documentation, and therapy sessions is undoubtedly worthwhile.

Do you face common challenges regularly as an SLP?

SLPs face various challenges in their roles, with documentation being a common one. The specific requirements for documentation vary across different work environments (e.g., hospitals, schools, outpatient clinics) and geographic locations, leading to a steep learning curve.

What skills or qualities do you believe are essential for success in the field?

Innovation and compassion are essential qualities for successful SLPs. Many SLPs work as the sole SLP in their building or school, requiring problem-solving and creative solutions. Additionally, compassion is paramount when working with individuals with disabilities, as establishing a strong rapport is crucial for effective intervention.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in speech-language pathology?

For those considering a career as an SLP, exploring the ASHA practice portal and listening to SLP podcasts can provide valuable insights into the field. These resources offer information on various topics, issues, and work environments within the SLP profession.

How to Pursue a Career as an SLP

Becoming an SLP is a journey that mixes science, compassion, and a lot of hands-on experience. It starts with a bachelor’s degree, usually followed by a master’s in speech-language pathology, where you’ll get real-world practice working with clients of all ages. After graduation, passing a certification exam and getting licensed are your final steps before starting this rewarding career. So, does a career as an SLP sound right for you? If so, check out our full guide on how to become an SLP!

Want to know more about available SLP jobs? Explore our SLP Jobs page to find current openings around the country and get a better understanding of what they entail.