Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Speech-Language Pathologist
What speech-language pathologists actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Run a speech group at an elementary school. From there, the day usually includes evaluate speech, language and swallowing, diagnose communication disorders, and plan and lead therapy. School SLPs follow the school calendar; healthcare SLPs work full-time with some weekends.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a speech-language pathologist working full time.
- Run a speech group at an elementary school.
- Work with a child who stutters.
- Attend an IEP meeting.
- Evaluate swallowing for a stroke patient.
- Do language therapy after a brain injury.
- Train a family on communication strategies.
- Write therapy notes.
Where speech-language pathologists work
SLPs work in schools, hospitals, rehab centers, nursing facilities, private practices and via telehealth.
Hours and schedule
School SLPs follow the school calendar; healthcare SLPs work full-time with some weekends.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Evaluate speech, language and swallowing
- Diagnose communication disorders
- Plan and lead therapy
- Treat swallowing disorders
- Teach communication strategies
- Train families and teachers
- Document progress
Tools you’ll use every day
- Assessment tests
- AAC devices
- Therapy materials and games
- Telehealth platforms
- Swallowing study equipment
- Documentation software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Much faster-than-average growth
- Meaningful progress
- Variety of settings
- Telehealth options
What’s hard
- Graduate degree required
- Large school caseloads
- Paperwork
- Slow progress at times
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I want to help people communicate
- I’m patient and creative
- I like working with kids or adults
- I want strong job prospects
- I enjoy language
- I’m willing to earn a master’s
Not sure? Take the free Speech-Language Pathologist fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow swallowing precautions
- Use infection control
- Know choking response
- Protect student and patient privacy