The Important Job of Speech Pathologists and Audiologists in Austin, Lakeway, Round Rock and Cedar Park and Surrounding Areas
Speech pathologists and audiologists help people speak more clearly or hear better. Speech pathologists treat language and speaking disorders. They are often called speech-language pathologists or speech therapists. Audiologists treat hearing disorders and balance problems. They work to prevent hearing loss.
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Despite helping different types of clients, speech pathologists and audiologists have common tasks. When they get new clients, they ask them questions to identify their problems. They collect information and arrange for tests. At times, they consult with other staff members to interpret test results. Once they have enough information, speech pathologists and audiologists decide how to treat clients. They monitor clients' improvement and revise plans as needed. They also keep records about clients.
Speech pathologists evaluate clients' ability to understand and produce language. They check clients' hearing because poor hearing can affect the ability to learn speech. In addition, they check how muscles are working. Some people lose muscle control because of a stroke. Others are born with a cleft palate or other physical cause that makes speech difficult. When they discover a physical problem in the structure of the mouth, pathologists may refer clients to doctors. Once they understand the client's problem, speech pathologists begin treating them. For example, they may teach clients how to make specific sounds. They may also teach sign language or lip reading.
Audiologists use special instruments to test how well people can hear. They check whether people can hear the difference between sounds. They also check whether people can hear quiet sounds or those that are high pitched, because these are the hardest sounds to hear. Audiologists may recommend hearing aids or similar devices to improve clients' hearing. They help clients get comfortable with hearing aids. In addition, audiologists work with doctors to determine if surgery is needed to help resolve a balance problem.
Audiologists advise employers on preventing hearing loss on the job. They test noisy work areas and point out sounds that can cause hearing loss. They also recommend ways to protect workers from hearing loss.
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Some speech pathologists and audiologists research new treatments and write reports about their findings. Others advise teaching and medical staff about preventing and treating hearing loss and speech disorders. Speech pathologists and audiologists keep up with new developments by taking classes and attending conferences.
Speech Pathologists and Audiologists perform the following activities on a regular basis:
- Interview and test clients for hearing and speech impairments.
- Interpret test results. May work with others on the health care team.
- Diagnose problems with hearing or speech.
- Develop and monitor treatment plans.
- Refer clients for further testing or medical treatment.
- Teach people how to make vocal sounds.
- Help people adjust to hearing aids.
- Teach sign language and lip reading.
- Teach better control of speech muscles.
- Keep records of patients' progress.
- Research new technologies and treatments.
- May write reports and articles or speak at conferences.
- Take classes to update skills.
- Test noise at job sites. Recommend safety practices.
- Advise employers and community groups on hearing safety.
Content provided by the Minnesota Department of Education
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