Speech pathologists and audiologists help people speak more clearly or hear better.

Speech pathologists treat language and speaking disorders. They are often called speech-language pathologists or speech therapists. Audiologists treat hearing disorders and balance problems. They work to prevent hearing loss.

Speech pathologists and audiologists have common tasks. When they get new clients, they ask them questions to identify their problems. They collect information and arrange for tests. They consult with other staff members to interpret test results. Speech pathologists and audiologists evaluate the information to decide how to treat clients. They monitor clients' improvement and revise plans as needed. They also keep records about clients.

Some speech pathologists and audiologists research new treatments and write reports about their findings. Others advise teaching and medical staff about preventing and treating hearing loss and speech disorders. Speech pathologists and audiologists take classes and attend conferences to keep up with new developments.

Speech pathologists

Speech pathologists evaluate clients' ability to understand and speak language. They check clients' hearing because poor hearing can affect the ability to learn speech. In addition, they check if muscles important for speaking are working. When they discover a physical problem in the structure of the mouth, pathologists may refer clients to doctors.

Once they understand the client's problem, speech pathologists begin treating them. For example, they may teach clients how to make specific sounds. They may also teach sign language or lip reading.

Audiologists

Audiologists use special instruments to test how well people can hear. They also check whether people can hear quiet sounds or high pitched sounds, because those are the hardest sounds to hear. Audiologists may recommend hearing aids or similar devices to improve clients' hearing. They fit clients with hearing aids. Audiologists work with doctors to determine if surgery is needed to help resolve a hearing problem.

Audiologists advise employers on preventing hearing loss on the job. They test noisy work areas and point out sounds that can cause hearing loss. They also recommend ways to protect workers from hearing loss.