Speech- The process of coordinating breathing, voice and mouth movements to produce words

Language- The words used, how they are formulated into sentences and how ideas are linked together

Pragmatics- All other aspects of communication, including eye contact, body language, tone of voice, gesture and sign

Speech pathologists help people who have problems in one or more of these areas. They also help people who have difficulty swallowing food or drink.

For more information on the different areas of speech pathology, click on the links below

Case Study 1

You are a Speech pathologist working in a Community Health Care Clinic. A mother brings in her 3 year old son to see you as she is worried that he is only saying 10 words. You notice that the little boy rarely looks at you when you speak to him. Since he has entered the room he has given his full attention to lining up the blocks in groups of colour.

What does a speech pathologist do in this situation? Click here to find out!

Case Study 2

A 60 year old man has been admitted hospital after having a stroke. He seems disoriented and has difficulty answering simple questions. He coughs every time he has a sip of water. He is refered to a speech pathologist.

What does a speech pathologist do in this situation? Click here to find out!