Speech-Language Pathologists
Speech-language pathologists assess and treat people with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. They work in hospitals, schools, clinics, and private practice, using therapeutic techniques and sometimes alternative communication systems. Some also conduct research on speech and language problems.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against speech-language pathologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves conducting evaluations, running therapy sessions with individual patients or small groups, and documenting progress. Sessions might address articulation, stuttering, swallowing, or language development. Pathologists select and adapt treatment strategies based on client needs, consult with families or teachers, and maintain detailed clinical records. Administrative time includes treatment planning and coordination with other healthcare providers.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you enjoy solving communication problems systematically and working directly with people to help them improve. A natural curiosity about how language works, combined with patience and strong listening skills, helps you succeed in this evidence-based, interpersonal role.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Speech-Language Pathologist · Veterans Health Administration · Ventura, California · $118518–$154076
- Speech-Language Pathologist · Veterans Health Administration · Cleveland, Ohio · $77977–$121502
- Speech-Language Pathologist · Veterans Health Administration · Buffalo, New York · $93598–$121680
- Speech-Language Pathologist · Veterans Health Administration · Augusta, Maine · $74678–$116362
- Speech-Language Pathologist · Veterans Health Administration · Salem, Virginia · $89508–$116362
- Speech Language Pathologist · Veterans Health Administration · Menlo Park, California · $111099–$173112
- Fee Basis - Speech Language Pathologist · Veterans Health Administration · Reno, Nevada · $85–$85
- Speech/Language Pathologist (Early Intervention) · Military Treatment Facilities under DHA · Fort Campbell, Tennessee · $89508–$116362
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $98,920 | $118,970 | $135,070 | 16,930 |
| Colorado | $94,590 | $110,750 | $136,890 | 4,420 |
| District of Columbia | $96,180 | $109,380 | $130,620 | 390 |
| Washington | $96,100 | $105,550 | $124,010 | 3,570 |
| Nevada | $83,200 | $104,510 | $119,630 | 1,270 |
| Rhode Island | $92,260 | $104,000 | $111,610 | 720 |
| Delaware | $87,210 | $102,760 | $114,620 | 690 |
| Alaska | $84,310 | $102,670 | $108,700 | 340 |
| Oregon | $85,810 | $102,660 | $127,700 | 1,600 |
| New Jersey | $82,680 | $101,560 | $128,910 | 6,840 |
| Massachusetts | $83,090 | $101,310 | $119,100 | 5,290 |
| New York | $78,570 | $100,610 | $131,190 | 15,310 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) — American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT) — Defense Intelligence Agency PMO
- Certified Level Sign Language — American Sign Language Teachers Association
- Master Level Sign Language — American Sign Language Teachers Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against speech-language pathologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1127.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.