A speech-language pathologist (SLP) is a highly-trained
professional who evaluates and treats children and adults who have difficulty
with speech or language. Although people often think of speech and language
as the same thing, the terms actually have very different meanings. If your
child has trouble with speech, they struggle with the "HOW" of talking - the
coordination of the muscles and movements needed to produce speech. If your
child has trouble with language, they struggle with understanding what they
hear or see. Your child may struggle to find the right words and/or organize
those words in a meaningful way to communicate a message or hold a
conversation.
A SLP also evaluates and treats children and adults who have difficulty with
fluency or stuttering. Other areas which are treated by a SLP include voice
problems, hearing impairments, and feeding disorders.