Speech therapists, also known as speech pathologists, work with people of all ages to help them learn to speak or improve on their speaking problems. As a speech therapist, you may work with younger patients who stutter or are recovering from cleft palate surgery. Older patients may need assistance when recovering from a stroke or may want to learn eliminate a regional accent. Speech therapists also work with people who have problems swallowing.
Education
To work as a speech therapist, most positions require a master's degree. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported that there were over 240 accredited colleges and universities in 2009 that offered post-graduate studies in speech language pathology. This includes schools that offer doctorate programs, as well. The curriculum for a speech therapist involves the physiology of speech and swallowing, along with psychological aspects of communication.
Licensing
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, 47 states required licensing or some other form of regulation to practice as a speech pathologist as of 2009. To become a licensed speech therapist, most states require a master's degree, a minimum number of hours of clinical experience, and at least nine months of post-graduate clinical experience. Speech therapists must pass an exam on speech language pathology. To be reimbursed for therapeutic services, Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance companies require a speech therapist to be licensed.
Compensation
According to PayScale in 2011, the national average salary for speech therapists in the U.S. was between $42,121 to $66,900. Salary.com reported the average compensation for speech therapists based on their geographical location in January 2011. In Kansas City, Missouri, the average salary for a speech pathologist was $67,225. In California, the compensation was significantly higher, with rates of $75,856 in Los Angeles and $82,884 in San Francisco. Smaller metro areas like Des Moines, Iowa, averaged salaries around $64,068. Birmingham, Alabama reported compensation around $65,226.
Working Environment
Speech therapists work in schools, hospitals and nursing homes. They may also travel to patients' homes and work with them there. Speech therapists are responsible for diagnosing speech problems and developing individual care plans to help the patient improve. In schools, they may be coordinating the care plan with teachers and other staff. In a hospital or nursing home setting, speech therapists may help patients learn swallow after a stroke or while recovering from some sort of injury. Speech therapists are responsible for assessing patient progress and teaching patients communication or swallowing skills.
