As a speech-language pathologist, you spend much time working one-on-one with individuals daily. Every student and patient is different, and you need different tools and techniques. This variety means you need access to various tools, technology, and training to meet each individual’s needs. It can be challenging to keep up!
There is a wealth of resources for speech-language pathologists to help fill this need. Blogs and websites can provide you with professional development, community engagement, mentorship, and sample treatment plans that include information on addressing ethical issues in healthcare, complying with HIPAA regulations, and managing among other tools. Whether you choose to work in a healthcare, educational, or other professional setting, there are some common resources that can benefit you and help you excel in your career.
While school and healthcare settings have distinct ecosystems and challenges, there are common resources that can support your role regardless of your job setting.
A large part of your role as a speech-language pathologist is conducting regular assessments. Your initial patient or student screening gives you a baseline on the individual’s speech needs and each subsequent assessment provides valuable data on their progress. Success in your role may come with the support of some of these speech-language pathologist resources for testing:
If you’re looking for lesson ideas or treatment tools, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is one of the best speech-language pathologist resources. ASHA has a wealth of information for speech-language pathologists at any stage in their career. Its specific page for school-based speech-language pathologists has resources like a list of questions to ask during evaluations, navigating Individual Education Program Guides (IEPs), and various classroom activity ideas.
ASHA also offers a section for speech-language pathologists working in healthcare. The healthcare section includes information on addressing ethical issues in healthcare, complying with HIPAA regulations, and how to manage acute versus long-term care needs. It’s a great place for those encountering the unique challenges working in healthcare brings.
There is a wide array of tools and technology that serve as great speech-language pathologist resources. Many speech-language pathologists use iPads or other tablets to access apps and other online resources to help their patients or students practice their skills. In some cases, text-to-speech technology can also help with communication.
You will also need some common tools like mirrors, an audio recorder, flashcards, and even bubbles to help with speech practice. Board games and toys can also aid in speech practice and can help your patients or students make progress while doing something fun. Especially for children games and toys can make a big difference as they encourage engagement and practice.
One of your greatest resources should be access to funding from your employer. You’ll likely need to replace some of the tools and technology you need, either to upgrade it or fix broken materials. Additionally, all speech-language pathologists should regularly attend professional development to stay up-to-date with the latest treatment methods, tools, and technology. Your employer should provide you with a regular stipend to keep up with these helpful speech-language pathologist resources.
If you’re struggling with access to the tools and training you need to do your job, it may be time to look for new opportunities. The team at Nyman Associates is poised to help you find the ideal job setting for your skills and interests. We can work with you to find a role with opportunities for better compensation and benefits, a more flexible work schedule, and even increased access to the technology and tools you need to help your students or patients succeed.
At Nyman Associates, we pride ourselves in going above and beyond, listening to and working with you to find a position where you’ll feel valued and can grow. We’ve boasted a high retention rate and great job satisfaction since we started in 1978. Now it’s your turn to find the position you love. Give us a call or fill out a contact form today to get started!
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