What’s the Difference Between a Speech Pathologist and a Speech Therapist?

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a speech pathologist and a speech therapist, you’re not alone. These terms are often used interchangeably 1, but is there actually a difference? Let’s break it down clearly.

1. What is a Speech Pathologist?

A speech pathologist is a professional who specialises in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of communication disorders, including difficulties with speech, language, voice, fluency, and swallowing. The official title is Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)2 in many countries, including the US and Australia.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assessing and diagnosing speech, language, and swallowing disorders.

• Developing and implementing treatment plans.

• Working with clients of all ages, from infants to the elderly.

• Collaborating with other health professionals, teachers, and families.

• Providing education and advocacy about communication disorders.

2. What is a Speech Therapist?

The term speech therapist is commonly used by the public and in informal settings. It refers to the same role as a speech pathologist. In the UK and many other countries, “speech therapist” is an older term that has largely been replaced by “speech pathologist” or “speech and language therapist” (SLT)3.

Key Points:

• “Speech therapist” and “speech pathologist” refer to the same profession.

• The training, qualifications, and scope of practice are identical.

• The term “speech therapist” is still widely recognised and used, especially by clients and families.

4. Training and Qualifications

Regardless of the title, all professionals in this field must:

• Complete a university degree in speech pathology or speech and language therapy.

• Undertake supervised clinical placements.

• Register with the relevant professional body (e.g., HCPC in the UK 4, RCSLT, or Speech Pathology Australia5).