Speech Therapist
OFO No: 226602
Other names for Speech Therapist:
- Language Therapist
- Speech Clinician
- Speech Pathologist
Youtube clip – The Career of a Speech Therapists
For training options in South Africa – scroll down
What is a Speech Therapist?
A Speech Therapist helps people (young and old) with speech and language disorders.
Speech Therapists often work with children who develop speech impediments (problems) like lisping and stuttering as well as helping people who have suffered from strokes or brain damage.
Speech Therapists can also help people who want to overcome strong accents which are preventing them doing well at work.
Speech Therapists often work closely with psychologists and psychiatrists, depending on the issue.
What does a Speech Therapist do?
- works one-to-one with a patient
- uses specialised equipment, tests (written and oral) to determines the patient’s problem
- analysse the data
- works with the patient to improve voice quality
- works out special programmes for each patient
- monitors results
- keeps records
Are you . . . ?
- interested in speech and language?
- patient and understanding?
- methodical?
- empathic?
- well spoken?
- able to work on your own?
- responsible and dedicated?
How do I become a Speech Therapist?
You will need to complete a Bachelor of Speech Pathology degree
- University of Cape Town
- University of KZN
- University of Pretoria
- University of Stellenbosch
- Walter Sisulu University
- Once qualified, you will need to complete an internship
- The HPCSA designation. Only then can you use the title Professional Speech Pathologist behind your name.
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
- HPCSA: Health Professions Council of South Africa
http://www.hpcsa.co.za/board_speech_registration.php
- SASLHA: South African Speech-Language-Hearing Association
http://www.saslha.co.za/default.asp
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Audiologist or Occupational Therapist
Is becoming a Speech Therapist the right career choice for me?