Q: What is a Speech Language Pathologist?

Speech language pathologists , also called SLPs , are therapists that evaluate, diagnose, and treat an array of speech, language, and cognitive communication issues, including swallowing disorders that can occur in both adults and children. As experts in communication, SLPs work with all types of patients, from adult stroke victims to children with developmental delays in a variety of health care, education, and research settings. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Special Education Professionals , there’s a shortage of speech language pathologists, especially in schools, due to the aging population, growing rate of autism which often presents speech disorders, and limited openings in graduate programs. Most speech language pathologists work in health care or educational settings with a majority working at schools. They also work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers and long-term residential health care facilities. Some may work in a private practice or work in the government sector. Speech Language Pathologists at a glance Scope of practice: Evaluate, diagnose, and treat speech, language, cognitive communication, social (pragmatic) communication, literacy, and swallowing disorders in children and adults Help aphasia patients find ways to communicate Evaluate swallowing ability and prescribe appropriate diets Train and education family members, caregivers, and other professionals Collaborate with other care team members Develop new treatment methods by conducting research

Q: What certifications are commonly held by speech language pathologists?

Speech language pathologists may hold Basic Life Support ( BLS ) or Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology ( CCC-SLP ), among others.

Question 1

How much do travel Travel SLP jobs pay?

Accepted Answer

For jobs available on Vivian as of Monday, November 9th 2026, the average weekly salary for a Travel Speech Language Pathologist is $2,271, but can pay up to $4,124 per week.

Question 2

What are the best agencies for Travel SLP jobs?

Accepted Answer

The agencies on Vivian that currently have the most Travel SLP jobs are AMN Healthcare Allied (590), Medlivo Therapy (425), and CoreMedical Group (247).

Question 3

Does Vivian have any staff SLP jobs?

Accepted Answer

As of Monday, November 9th 2026, Vivian has 430 Staff SLP jobs listed. These jobs pay $58 per hour on average, with the highest-paying job listed up to $96 per hour.

Question 4

Does Vivian have any per diem SLP  jobs?

Accepted Answer

As of Monday, November 9th 2026, Vivian has 93 jobs listed for per diem SLP jobs. These jobs pay $59 per hour on average and up to $82 per hour for the highest-paying role.

Question 5

Does Vivian have any local contract SLP jobs?

Accepted Answer

As of Monday, November 9th 2026, Vivian has 493 listings for local contract SLP jobs. These jobs pay $57 per hour on average, and up to $91 per hour for the top-paying job listed.

Question 6

Where can I learn more about working as a Travel SLP?

Accepted Answer

Take a look at Vivian's Travel SLP Career Guide for more information, including required education, responsibilities, pros and cons and more.

Question 7

What is a Speech Language Pathologist?

Accepted Answer

Speech language pathologists, also called SLPs, are therapists that evaluate, diagnose, and treat an array of speech, language, and cognitive communication issues, including swallowing disorders that can occur in both adults and children. As experts in communication, SLPs work with all types of patients, from adult stroke victims to children with developmental delays in a variety of health care, education, and research settings.

According to the Journal of the American Academy of Special Education Professionals, there’s a shortage of speech language pathologists, especially in schools, due to the aging population, growing rate of autism which often presents speech disorders, and limited openings in graduate programs.

Most speech language pathologists work in health care or educational settings with a majority working at schools. They also work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers and long-term residential health care facilities. Some may work in a private practice or work in the government sector.

Speech Language Pathologists at a glance

Scope of practice:

Evaluate, diagnose, and treat speech, language, cognitive communication, social (pragmatic) communication, literacy, and swallowing disorders in children and adults
Help aphasia patients find ways to communicate
Evaluate swallowing ability and prescribe appropriate diets
Train and education family members, caregivers, and other professionals
Collaborate with other care team members
Develop new treatment methods by conducting research

Question 8

What certifications are commonly held by speech language pathologists?

Accepted Answer

Speech language pathologists may hold Basic Life Support (BLS) or Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP), among others.

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