Speech Language Pathology...Audiology...SAY WHAT?!
When I started this blog and information sharing, I was mostly sharing with other professionals sharing tips, tricks, ideas, research, etc. Over time, this community has shifted to include parents and caregivers and I am sooooo excited and thankful for that. With the growth in the community, I figure it is a good time to explain some of the background behind the information sharing. Here it goes...
What is a Speech Language Pathologist?
Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) are professionals trained to prevent, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in children and adults.
https://www.asha.org/students/speech-language-pathology/
What is an Audiologist?
Audiologists are professionals trained to provide care in the prevention, identification, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment of hearing, balance, and other auditory (hearing related) disorders in children and adults.
https://www.asha.org/students/audiology/
The American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA)is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association.
What is language?
Language is the comprehension and/or use of spoken, written, or symbol system in which there are socially shared rules that include the following:
- Word meaning
- (e.g., "star" can refer to a bright object in the night sky or a celebrity)
- Word structure
- (e.g., friend, friendly, unfriendly)
- Putting words together
- (e.g., "Peg walked to the new store" rather than "Peg walk store new")
- Deciding words/phrases to go together best given a specific situation
- ("Would you mind moving your foot?" could quickly change to "Get off my foot, please!" if the first request did not produce results)
Speech is how sounds are made.
- Articulation: How speech sounds are made using the mouth, lips, teeth, and tongue
- Phonology:Patterns of use of speech sounds.
- Voice: The production of sound using the vocal folds and breath
- Fluency: The rate and rhythm of speech (more commonly referred to as stuttering)
There is extensive literature and research available to students and professionals in the field offering insight into “norms” and expectations. While there are many factors to consider when discussing a speech/language disorder, in general, a disorder is considered when an individual has difficulty using or understanding language or speech in a way that is not consistent with developmental expectations or is the result of other factors. It is best to contact a professional with questions/concerns.
This link offers more information and if you scroll to the bottom, a professional search for SLPs in your area https://www.asha.org/public/speech/development/Speech-and-Language/
What about hearingand balance?
An audiologist can assess, treat, and rehabilitate hearing and balance related disorders including cochlear implants, hearing assistive technology, and hearing aids.
https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/Treatment/
As a SLP and now a mother, I find I am now asked much more personal questions regarding a variety of topics. In my upcoming posts, I’m going to share information on my most asked questions….SO now you have the background knowledge for that information J
Be sure to leave a comment, question, or input!
XOXO,
Julianne