Speech Pathologist (BHDDH

Speech Pathologist (BHDDH)

Within the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH), to provide speech therapy, evaluation and treatment to physically, mentally or developmentally disabled clients through written referral from medical provider; and to do related work as required.

Works under the general supervision of the Administrator of Physical Rehabilitation; work is subject to review while in process and upon completion for conformance to established therapeutic standards and objectives.

As required, may supervise subordinates and students.

Illustrative examples of work performed:

• Within the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH), to provide speech therapy, evaluation and treatment to physically, mentally or developmentally disabled clients through written referral from medical provider; and to do related work as required.
• To diagnose and evaluate speech and language competencies of clients including assessment of speech and language skills as related to education, medical, social, and psychological factors.
• To develop individual client evaluation and treatment programs to measure and rehabilitate speech disabilities.
• To direct therapeutic activity programs and evaluate speech therapy modalities which would most appropriately resolve client disabilities.
• To plan independent and group activities for each client, as well as develop task or work-oriented groups to increase client socialization skills.
• As required, to develop, fabricate, and apply adaptive devices which will improve individual client speaking functions.
• To complete documentation as required and set forth by hospital/ departmental policy and procedures.
• To work within an interdisciplinary team.
• To maintain appropriate client records and treatment plans for individuals participating in a speech therapy program.
• To do related work as required.

Required qualifications for appointment:

Knowledge, skills and capacities: A thorough knowledge of the principles, practice methods, and techniques of speech therapy; and the ability to apply such knowledge in the instruction and evaluation of physically, mentally or developmentally disabled clients; the ability to recognize problems and/or reactions of speech impaired clients and to communicate with such clients in an effective and professional manner; the ability to plan and monitor therapeutic treatment programs;

the ability to work within a multidisciplinary team; the ability to maintain accurate records and treatment plans; and related capacities and abilities.

Education and experience:

Education:

Possession of a master's degree with specialization in speech therapy and successful completion of an approved program by the American Speech/Language and Hearing Association; and

Experience:

Employment in a position involving the administration and evaluation of speech therapy techniques for clients with speech and language disabilities.

Or, any combination of education and experience that shall be substantially equivalent to the above education and experience.

Special requirements:
At the time of appointment, must possess certification of clinical competence in speech therapy and must maintain such certification as a condition of employment.