When choosing a profession I have always encouraged students to look within themselves as to what makes them happy. If they,
- Enjoy helping others and demonstrate empathy easily and naturally
- Can communicate and express themselves well
- Are good listeners, no matter what the topic or perceived relevancy
- Have a strong commitment to social justice
- Can work independently, as well as within a small group of colleagues
- Wish to engage in ongoing educational and learning endeavours
- Can accommodate and respond to different communication styles
- Want job stability and flexibility within their profession
- Are motivated by a challenge
- Have demonstrated leadership qualities in their early life across educational, social, personal or sporting endeavours
These strengths are important when choosing Speech Pathology as a career path.
The profession is unique in terms of our client base and referral sources.
Our clients vary from the 1 month old that presents with feeding issues due to a cleft lip, palate or developmental challenges, through to the elderly client who may have stroke related, neurological impairment of their speech, language or swallowing ability.
The treatment approaches vary and are ever evolving, requiring ongoing education, research and peer support and review from time to time. Therapy and behavioural approaches that depend upon sound and proven therapeutic principles, your own resourcefulness, creativity, insight and life experience.
Our professional body, Speech Pathology Australia, is well run, independent, well resourced and professional in their own conduct, manner and interaction with their members.
The opportunities for growth within the profession are excellent. Remuneration varies, however job satisfaction can be assured. If you are thinking of Speech Pathology as a profession, I can only encourage you to do so.
Personally, my favourite time of the year is Christmas, when dozens of barely legible cards are presented by `little hands`.
Mr Craig Gorman
Speech Pathologist.