Speech Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA)

Speech Language Pathologist Assistant

Under the direction and supervision of a Speech and Language Pathologist, the Speech and Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) assists in supplementing, enhancing, and extending speech/language therapy services by completing a variety of tasks such as, but not limited to, direct activities with students designed to develop pre-language and language skills, oral-motor control for speech production, vocalization, and use of assistive technology devices for communication. The SLPA serves students who have identified speech and language disorders and may have other disabilities as well.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assist speech and language therapist with implementation of IEP goals.
• Effectively and tactfully communicate in both oral and written forms.
• Manage and use time effectively.
• Demonstrate appropriate conduct.
• Select, prepare, and present materials effectively.
• Maintain student progress documentation.
• Provide effective implementation of therapy objectives.
• Interact successfully with parents, students, supervisors, and school staff.
• Modify or differentiate lessons to meet students' needs and progress with guidance from SLP.
• Consult with Supervisor when students' progress is not consistent.
• Develop and monitor carry over activities with classroom teacher and home.
• Develop and provide creative, appropriate lessons/materials to ensure progress towards student IEP goals.
• Work with students individually and in small groups.
• Develop schedules for student services that meets current IEP services.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders

Licenses and Certificates: Current registration as an SLPA with the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation and ASHA at the time of appointment and must maintain current registration throughout employment in this classification.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Speech and language pathology equipment, materials, and procedures
• Normal speech, language, and hearing development
• Language disorders and rehabilitation
• Articulation disorders and rehabilitation
• Acquired disorders and rehabilitation.
• Learning patterns in children
• Student behavior management techniques and strategies
• Learning disabilities of children with special education needs
• English usage, punctuation, spelling, and grammar
• Routine recordkeeping

Experience:

• Minimum of 25 hours of clinical observation in the area of speech-language pathology
• 25 hours of clinical assisting experience in speech-language pathology from a Board-approved program.