Do speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists belong to a national organization?
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the national professional and scientific association for speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists concerned with communication behavior and disorders. ASHA has over 96,000 members and affiliates in the United States and foreign countries.
Can students belong to the national organization?
Although undergraduate and graduate students in the human communication sciences and disorders are not yet qualified to join ASHA, they have their own organization called the National Stu-dent Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) that works closely with ASHA. The student organization has chapters at many campuses around the country. The National Student Speech Language Hearing Association has over 16,000 members.
Where are the ASHA and NSSILHA offices? Both offices are located at:
10801 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852.
For further information write to the ASHA Director of Membership or to the Director of NSSLHA Operations.
Does ASHA certify speech-language pathologists and audiologists?
ASHAs Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) is the only pro-fessional certificate for speech-language pathologists and audiologists that is recognized in every state. ASHA's CCC is awarded upon completion of a master's degree in the field with academic coursework and clinical practicum in specifically designated areas, completion of a national examination, and com-pletion of an internship period known as the Clinical Fellowship.
When should an applicant apply for certification?
It is advantageous to begin filling out the ASHA application while in the final semester of graduate school, for the program director can assist in the process, including signing the application.
Do states have licensure laws for speech-language pathologists and audiologists?
The majority of states legally require individuals who engage in private practice or who work in nonpublic agencies to hold a license in speech-language pathology or audiology. Also, state and/or local education certification is necessary for speech--language pathologists and audiologists working in a school set-ting. Generally, the requirements are similar to those for ASHA certification.