Speech-Language-Hearing Therapist
げんごちょうかくし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Medical, Nursing, and Health Occupations
- Middle : Medical Technicians
- Minor : Speech-Language-Hearing Therapists
Summary
Medical professionals who assess and diagnose patients with impairments in language abilities, communication skills, eating and swallowing functions, etc., and support functional recovery and assistance through rehabilitation.
Description
Speech-language-hearing therapists conduct specialized examinations and evaluations for patients with articulation disorders, aphasia, developmental language disorders, swallowing disorders, etc., and develop and implement rehabilitation programs tailored to individual symptoms and needs. From hospitalized patients to home-visit rehabilitation, school and welfare facility support, they collaborate with multiple professions such as doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, and physical therapists to support functional recovery and social participation. They also handle the use of AAC devices, communication support, family guidance, etc., and continuous care tailored to life stages is required.
Future Outlook
Due to the progress of aging and increasing demand for rehabilitation, the demand for speech-language-hearing therapists is expected to increase in the future. Expansion into new work styles such as school education, home-visit rehabilitation, and teletherapy is also anticipated.
Personality Traits
Adaptable / Empathetic / Excellent Communicator / Keen Observer / Patient
Work Style
Facility Employment / Flexitime / Home-Visit Rehabilitation / Hospital Employment / Part-Time
Career Path
Hospital Speech-Language-Hearing Therapist → Nursing Home → Home-Visit Rehabilitation → Schools and Educational Institutions → Clinic Ownership → Research and Education Positions
Required Skills
Articulation Evaluation / Communication Support Techniques / Hearing Tests / Rehabilitation Techniques / Standardized Tests / Swallowing Function Evaluation
Recommended Skills
AAC Device Operation / Applied Behavior Analysis / Communication Skills (English) / Interprofessional Collaboration / Language Development Psychology
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To not miss subtle changes in patients' voice or swallowing functions. |
| Communication Skills | To build trusting relationships with patients who have various disabilities. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because it is necessary to continuously acquire new examination methods and treatment techniques. |
| Problem Solving | To devise the optimal treatment method for each individual's symptoms. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To advance care while collaborating with multiple professions. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because mathematical analysis is not frequently used in specialized fields. |
Related Qualifications
- Speech-Language-Hearing Therapist (National Qualification)
Aliases
- ST
- Speech Therapist
Related Jobs
- Clinical Psychologist
- Occupational Therapist
- Physical Therapist