Speech problems occur in people of all ages.

They can cause feelings of isolation and frustration for those who experience them. They can manifest as difficulty understanding or expressing words, making oneself understood, and many other impediments to communication.

Speech-language pathologists are highly trained professionals who help people affected by such communication disorders. They assess, treat, and help prevent or remediate language, speech, voice, fluency, cognitive, and other related communication disorders, such as swallowing problems.

Supportive personnel assist in the delivery of speech-language pathology services. They are supervised by a qualified speech-language pathologist.

Education and training

Speech-language pathologists typically hold a Master's degree from an accredited university program. They are governed by a regulatory body, the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC, and must meet regulatory requirements to practice.