Speech Language Pathology Assistant

Position Overview

Speech & Language Pathologist Assistants (SLPAs) at NAPA Center work closely with Speech & Language Pathologists to provide supervised intervention to infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents with neurological, developmental, communication, and feeding needs. Within their professional scope of practice, SLPAs support skilled assessments and implement evidence-based interventions under the direction of a licensed Speech & Language Pathologist. The role requires collaboration within a multi-disciplinary team to support clients with complex communication and feeding needs.

Responsibilities

Provide supervised intervention and support assessment activities for speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and feeding-swallowing disorders primarily within the pediatric population and within the SLPA's professional scope of practice. Demonstrate general knowledge of child development and communicate observations to the supervising Speech & Language Pathologist to support appropriate referrals to other disciplines when indicated. Work closely under the supervision of a licensed Speech & Language Pathologist to support client assessment using a variety of standardized tools, clinical observations, and other appropriate measures to inform treatment planning. Participate in supervised interactions with patients, families, and caregivers to provide education, training, and strategies to improve communication and functional skills across environments. Utilize multiple frames of reference to inform intervention, including but not limited to neurodevelopmental, developmental, biomechanical, sensory integration, motor learning, cognitive, and rehabilitation approaches. Work with the supervising Speech & Language Pathologist to implement individualized treatment plans that address client needs while considering age, abilities, diagnosis, and medical or physical factors. Participate, under appropriate supervision, in the assessment, development, application, and training related to aided communication devices. Demonstrate understanding of various Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems and access methods, including but not limited to eye gaze and switch access. Demonstrate understanding of intervention related to oral-motor skills, feeding, and swallowing mechanics within the SLPA's scope of practice and level of training. Utilize multi-modal communication strategies, including manual signs, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, verbal language, gestures, body language, and other appropriate communication methods. Implement Speech & Language Pathologist-prescribed and supervised home programs for patients and caregivers to promote carryover and generalization of skills developed during therapy sessions. Adapt environments, activities, and processes to enhance functional performance and participation within and outside of therapy sessions. Actively participate in professional development, including continuing education opportunities provided by NAPA Center, outside providers, and through regular clinical supervision. Maintain accurate and timely documentation and ensure treatment notes are completed in the electronic health record according to NAPA Center policies and applicable professional and regulatory requirements. Assist with clinical report writing and documentation, including evaluations, progress reports, school district annual IEP reports, assistive technology documentation, and other reports as directed by the supervising Speech & Language Pathologist. Act as a member of an interdisciplinary team to support a comprehensive, developmental, and client-centered approach to care. Develop rapport with clients and families and establish relationships based on trust, respect, and professional empathy. Work closely with administrative staff to manage scheduling and ensure therapy time is used productively. Provide input into the development and improvement of clinical practices and procedures. Act in accordance with all company, legal, professional, and industry policies and ethical standards. Comply with all professional development, licensure, and registration requirements for maintaining SLPA credentials with the appropriate licensing board. Work in a healthy and safe manner and encourage others to do the same.

This list is indicative only and is subject to change. All Napa Center, Inc. employees are required to comply with any reasonable work requests from Management that occur from time to time.

Requirements

Previous experience in pediatric speech pathology or a related field, with a minimum of 2 years of experience preferred. Familiarity with communication disorders. Current and active SLPA license with the appropriate state licensing board. Completion of an accredited Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program or equivalent education and training required for SLPA licensure in the applicable state. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to build rapport with patients and parents. Positive, patient, and professional demeanor. Background clearance by the DOJ and FBI. CPR and First Aid certificates.

Ability to communicate confidently and effectively with clients, therapy team and other medical professionals. Leadership skills to ensure that all clinic staff are working towards the same goals and striving for continual improvement. Display a level of professional empathy and the ability to develop rapport.

Physical Demands

Good physical health and fitness, including the ability to frequently perform, daily, the following movements over a 6–8 hour period without experiencing pain or abnormal fatigue: Lift, push or pull up to and including 50 pounds with hands and wrists as therapeutic handling is manually intensive Independently pivot or standing transfer dependent patients up to 85 pounds Independently offer contact guard assistance for ambulatory patients of up to 125 pounds

Maintain extended periods of standing and/or sitting on the floor for up to 7 hours per day

Benefits

Medical, dental and vision insurance, in addition to non-medical options such as hospital indemnity and critical illness. Paid time off accruals immediately upon start. Personal time (12 hours annually to be used for appointments that cannot be made outside of work hours). Wellness program with stipend to be used for an appointment that focuses on physical and mental wellness. Professional development allowance of $500 upon each year of qualifying service, with the ability to roll to the next year, up to $1,000 total. Growing families program that allows increased compensation for 1 - 2 years following the birth or adoption of child. International opportunities in London and Australia. 12-week training opportunities and ongoing mentorship throughout employment. Annual merit increase based on performance review. Step program that allows for increased clinical skills and additional compensation during the annual review for each level achieved.

Company Values

All NAPA Center employees must demonstrate the company’s core values which include: Love – NAPA’s foundation is grounded in the deep love parents have for their children. Together, we strive to infuse kindness and care into our actions and words, creating a supportive community built upon love.​ Hope – We believe in the potential of every child and are committed to offering unwavering support to our families, guiding them toward success, and inspiring hope.​ Share – We strive toward progress and connection through continuous collaboration among team members, as well as with our clients and their families. ​ Grow – Embrace evolution, active engagement, and perpetual pursuit of knowledge from our clients, colleagues, and industry. By doing so, we are committed to providing the most advanced and effective therapy, ensuring the continual improvement of our services.