Speech-language pathologist to treat stuttering


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Speech-language pathologist to treat stuttering


A speech-language pathologist, also called a speech therapist, helps improve the speech of a child with mild or severe stuttering by using either indirect or direct treatment. Indirect treatment focuses upon evaluating the child and counseling parents. Direct treatment techniques include helping parents and other family members communicate more effectively, helping the child overcome emotional difficulties associated with stuttering, and teaching the child ways to improve speech. The speech-language pathologist closely monitors the child's progress regardless of which treatment is used.

A speech-language pathologist should have:1

  • Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, which requires:
    • A master's degree from an accredited university.
    • Successful completion of a national exam.
    • A 1-year supervised internship.
  • State license where he or she practices
  • Experience in treating stuttering.

References


Citations

  1. Guitar B, Conture EG (2007). The Child Who Stutters: To the Pediatrician, revised 4th ed. (Publication No. 23). Memphis: Stuttering Foundation of America. Also available online: http://www.stutteringhelp.org/Portals/english/0023tped.pdf.

Credits


Author Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert M. Kroll, BSc, MSc, PhD - Speech Pathology
Last Updated August 25, 2008

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Last updated: August 25, 2008
Author: Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Robert M. Kroll, BSc, MSc, PhD - Speech Pathology
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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