Terminology
Speech therapy: focuses on teaching an individual how to say the sounds of English. Therapy to correct an error with the / r / sound is common in elementary students.
Language therapy: focuses on two areas, expressive and receptive language. Language therapy in these areas would work on such things as learning new vocabulary, organizing thoughts and ideas clearly, correct syntax or word order, and social language or how we interact with others socially.
Expressive language: is how well we express our thoughts and ideas to others.
Receptive language: is how well we understand what is spoken by others.
Fluency therapy: would focus on working with individuals who stutter to teach strategies for smoother speech.
Voice therapy: focuses on teaching good vocal use technique, especially after an injury to the vocal region.
Swallowing therapy (dysphagia): focuses on teaching individuals how to coordinate the muscles of the mouth, throat and tongue to swallow safely and efficiently. SLPAs are not allowed to provide this type of therapy per the scope of practice set forth by ASHA and the Oregon Board of Examiners for Speech Pathology and Audiology.
Communication Disorder: An individual having disability in any of the areas of speech, language, fluency, swallowing or hearing has a Communication Disorder.
Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP): A Speech-Language Pathologist diagnoses disorders and provides treatment in the areas of speech, language, fluency, voice, and swallowing. A Speech-Language Pathologist has a Masters and/or Doctoral degrees from colleges and universities accredited by the American Speech-Language Association (ASHA).
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA): A Speech-Language Pathology Assistant would work under the direction of the Speech-Language Pathologist. An SLPA has completed the required coursework and is certified under the Oregon State Board of Examiners for Speech Language Pathology and Audiology.
For more information contact the American Speech, Language, Hearing Association (ASHA) at: www.asha.org