State Speech Language Pathology and Audiology Boards

State Boards of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, often unified under a single regulatory body, serve the essential purpose of safeguarding the public by overseeing professionals who treat communication, swallowing, and hearing disorders. Their central responsibility is the licensing of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Audiologists. This process ensures competence by mandating that practitioners complete a master's or doctoral degree from accredited programs, fulfill required clinical fellowship hours, and pass national examinations administered by organizations like Praxis. Crucially, these boards enforce the specific scope of practice and ethical standards defined in state law, providing a regulatory mechanism for ongoing professional accountability and consumer protection.

The importance of this oversight is profound due to the sensitive nature of the disorders treated and the risks posed by unlicensed practitioners. Unlicensed individuals lack the verified, specialized training needed for accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment. Seeking help from an unqualified person can lead to misdiagnosis of serious underlying conditions (e.g., neurological disorders or ear tumors), inappropriate or ineffective therapy that wastes time and money, or harmful advice regarding hearing aid use or dysphagia (swallowing) management. For children, ineffective intervention for a speech or language delay can significantly impede academic and social development. By restricting practice to licensed SLPs and Audiologists, these boards ensure the public receives safe, competent, and effective care for vital communication and sensory functions.

Use the resources below to learn more about the work of your State Speech Language Pathology and Audiology Board.