Speech-language pathology (SLP) is a vital healthcare and academic discipline dedicated to the evaluation, treatment, and prevention of a broad spectrum of communication and swallowing disorders across the entire lifespan. Clinicians, known as Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), address issues ranging from expressive and receptive language impairments, voice disorders, and stuttering, to social communication difficulties and the diagnosis and treatment of swallowing challenges, often playing a key role in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) interventions.

This allied health profession is regulated by state licensing boards, with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), established in 1925 (originally as the American Academy of Speech Correction), serving as a primary body that monitors, lobbies, and advocates for SLPs. Dispelling the common misconception that their work is limited to articulation or stuttering, SLPs provide comprehensive services, including screening, assessment, and therapy for disorders arising from diverse causes such as stroke, brain injury, or developmental delays.