ＳＴ（Speech-Language 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
A medical technical specialist who conducts evaluations, training, and guidance for patients with disabilities in language, hearing, and swallowing functions, aiming to improve communication and eating abilities.
Description
Speech-language therapists (ST) conduct assessments based on medical knowledge for patients with impairments in language, voice, hearing, and swallowing functions caused by strokes, neurological disorders, congenital conditions, or developmental disabilities, and develop and implement individualized rehabilitation programs. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including physicians, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, providing guidance and consultation not only to patients but also to their families. They create clinical records, evaluate treatment outcomes, adjust plans, and support improvements in activities of daily living and communication skills.
Future Outlook
With the progression of an aging society, demand is increasing for swallowing disorders and communication impairments associated with dementia. The introduction of remote rehabilitation and AI support tools is advancing, and the demand for highly specialized STs is expected to expand further.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Educational Institution Employment / Freelance / Home-Visit Rehabilitation / Hospital Employment / Welfare Facility Employment
Career Path
Clinical ST (Staff) → Chief ST → Rehabilitation Department Head → Home-Visit Rehab Staff → Education and Research Positions
Required Skills
Communication Support Techniques / Medical Record Creation / Speech-Language Assessment / Swallowing Function Assessment
Recommended Skills
Evidence-Based Practice / Long-Term Care Insurance System / Multidisciplinary Collaboration / Psychological Support
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because accurate observation of subtle changes in voice and swallowing functions is required. |
| Communication Skills | Because smooth dialogue with patients, families, and the medical team is essential. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because it is necessary to continuously learn new treatments and research findings. |
| Planning & Organization | Because it is necessary to develop rehabilitation plans tailored to individual patients. |
| Problem Solving | Because training content must be devised and adjusted for each patient's challenges. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because collaboration and information sharing with multidisciplinary teams are important. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because clinical observation is the focus rather than advanced mathematical analysis. |
Related Qualifications
- Speech-Language Therapist (National Qualification)
Aliases
- Speech Therapist
Related Jobs
- Clinical Psychologist
- Dietitian
- Occupational Therapist
- Physical Therapist