Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) support individuals with disabilities, from Birth to 5 years, by helping them develop and strengthen communication and feeding skills. SLPs work with children who may have challenges with speaking, understanding language, or swallowing safely. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), SLPs assess, diagnose, and treat disorders affecting speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and feeding and swallowing. Their goal is to help children build the skills they need to participate in daily activities, learn effectively, and communicate confidently in inclusive environments.

Join Our Newsletter

Find Great Speech-Language Pathologist Jobs

Search Jobs Here

What They Do

  • Assess and diagnose speech, language, and feeding challenges.
  • Develop individualized treatment plans and monitor progress.
  • Support families with strategies to encourage communication at home.
  • Collaborate with Early Intervention Providers, special educators, and other professionals.
  • Help children build skills for effective communication and safe feeding.

Where They Work

Speech-Language Pathologists work in early childhood centers, schools, hospitals, family homes, and community-based programs. They often partner with Early Intervention Providers and other specialists to support children in inclusive learning environments.

How to Become a Speech-Language Pathologist

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders.

Step 2: Earn a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders.

Step 3: Earn 1,260 hours of supervised postgraduate clinical fellowship. At least 1,008 hours of supervised experience must involve direct client assessment.

Step 4: Pass the National Speech-Language Pathology Exam through Praxis with a score of at least 162.

Step 5: Receive licensing through the Michigan Board.

Plan Your Education

Explore Speech-Language Pathologist College Programs in Your State or Territory

AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY DC AS GU MP PR VI

Want to Explore Other Career Options?

Ready to explore other paths in Early Childhood? Visit the ECIPC Early Childhood Careers page to learn how to get started.

Speech-Language Pathologist Story Teller Series

Early Childhood Intervention Speech-Language Pathologist

As an Early Childhood Intervention Speech-Language Pathologist, you help young children with disabilities find their voice and parents discover the joy of connection. Through play, daily routines, and simple communication tools, you guide families as their little ones say their first words — turning everyday moments into powerful milestones.

Finding Their Voice: Supporting Speech and Language Through Early Childhood Intervention

An Early Childhood Intervention Speech-Language Pathologist shares how she helps young children with disabilities build speech and language skills — from home routines to community outings — and why those first words are the most powerful milestones.