Speech and Language Therapist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Speech and Language Therapist
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Practice Now »What is a Speech and Language Therapist?
As a Speech and Language Therapist, you will work with patients who have difficulties with communication or swallowing, often due to conditions such as stroke or hearing loss. Your role will involve diagnosing their issues and providing tailored therapy to help them improve their speech, language or swallowing ability.
Skills
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Knowledge of speech and language disorders
- Assessment and diagnostic skills
- Treatment planning and implementation
- Ability to work with individuals of all ages
- Empathy and patience
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
- Continuous professional development and learning
- Record keeping and documentation skills
Qualifications & Education
- A recognised graduate or postgraduate degree is required
- The degree must encompass both theory and clinical practice
- Successful completion of the degree leads to eligibility for a certificate to practice
- Successful completion of the degree leads to membership of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists
- Full membership is granted after completion of a year of supervised, post-qualifying experience
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is worth becoming a speech and language therapist in the UK. The demand for speech therapists is constantly growing, and there is a high likelihood of finding a job once you have the necessary qualifications.
Yes, speech and language therapy is considered a good career choice in the UK. It offers a lifelong and varied career path with opportunities for advancement in both public and private healthcare sectors. Additionally, speech and language therapists can further develop their skills through postgraduate education or research roles.
With a speech and language therapy degree, you can work as a speech and language therapist specializing in areas such as cleft and lip palate, swallowing difficulties, or learning disabilities. Other options include teaching, research, advanced clinical practice, or moving into management.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Speech and Language Therapist mock interview, under 10 minutes
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