Speech Therapy Providers
Speech therapy is primarily provided by certified and licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) who are healthcare professionals with the expertise needed to deliver effective behavioral treatment for communication and swallowing disorders. 1
Qualifications and Certification
Speech-Language Pathologists are professionals who:
- Hold certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- Are licensed in their state of practice
- Have specialized training in the assessment and treatment of communication disorders
- Often have Master's or Doctoral level education in speech-language pathology
Role of SLPs in Treatment
SLPs provide a range of services including:
- Evaluation and diagnosis of communication disorders
- Treatment of speech, language, voice, fluency, and swallowing disorders
- Development of individualized therapy plans
- Documentation of patient progress
- Education for patients and families 1
Collaborative Practice Model
In many clinical settings, SLPs work within a multidisciplinary framework:
- In voice disorders, SLPs often collaborate with otolaryngologists who perform diagnostic laryngoscopy before prescribing voice therapy 1
- For functional communication disorders, SLPs may work alongside physiotherapists or occupational therapists 1
- In some specialized voice centers, SLPs trained in visual imaging may examine the larynx for evaluating vocal function, though examination or review by an otolaryngologist ensures appropriate medical management 1
Types of Therapy Provided
SLPs deliver various therapeutic approaches depending on the condition:
- Voice therapy for dysphonia and hoarseness
- Swallowing rehabilitation for dysphagia
- Speech therapy for articulation disorders
- Treatment for functional communication disorders
- Specialized therapy for neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease 1
Finding a Qualified SLP
To locate a qualified SLP:
- Visit the ASHA website (www.asha.org)
- Use ASHA's online search engine ProSearch
- Contact ASHA's Action Center at 1-800-638-8255
- Request referrals from physicians, particularly otolaryngologists 1
Insurance Coverage
Most insurance plans cover speech therapy services when:
- Provided by a certified and licensed SLP
- Ordered by a physician
- Deemed medically necessary for the diagnosis
- Medicare generally covers voice therapy under speech therapy guidelines
- Medicaid coverage varies by state but typically covers therapy up to age 18 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Delaying referral to an SLP when symptoms persist beyond 3 weeks
- Failing to obtain proper medical evaluation (like laryngoscopy) before initiating voice therapy
- Not communicating diagnostic findings between physician and SLP
- Underutilizing voice therapy despite its demonstrated efficacy 1
Speech therapy is a critical component in the treatment of many communication disorders, with certified SLPs serving as the primary providers of these specialized services.