Speech Language Pathologist
Master of Health Sciences in Speech Language Pathology
What are the roles and responsibilities in your current position?
Speech Language Pathologists work with individuals of all ages in the areas of communication – speech, language and cognition and with head and neck issues such as swallowing, to assess function and provide interventions to improve quality of life. Workplaces range from hospital to community, at school or at home in both publicly funded and private practice settings.
What barriers did you have to overcome to succeed?
To become a Speech Language Pathologist, requires an undergraduate degree (in any area) and a Master’s Degree. This can seem daunting, but the time goes by quickly and includes clinical placements.
We need more Indigenous Speech Language Pathologists – especially who have levels of fluency in Indigenous languages.
There are entrance opportunities for Indigenous Students at a number of Universities that can support students to achieve this educational pathway.
What is your advice for healthcare students?
Think about your “why” and make decisions for yourself based on that
Allow yourself to have big dreams and follow those dreams
Find a mentor – there is always someone who can help you get to the next step
Never say never – you can do things at your own pace and when the time is right
Haudenosaunee Health Services 