Job description
The Speech and Swallow Therapist is responsible for the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of communication, cognitive-communication, speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders in adults undergoing neurorehabilitation. The therapist works as an integral member of the multidisciplinary rehabilitation team to optimize patient outcomes, functional independence, safety, and quality of life.
The patient population primarily includes adults with neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), hypoxic brain injury, and other acquired neurological disorders.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Assessment Conduct comprehensive assessments of speech, language, cognitive-communication, voice, and swallowing function. Evaluate patients with dysphagia using clinical swallowing assessments and recommend instrumental assessments when indicated. Identify communication impairments including aphasia, dysarthria, apraxia of speech, cognitive-communication disorders, and voice disorders.
Assess the impact of communication and swallowing deficits on functional independence and participation. Treatment and Rehabilitation Develop individualized, evidence-based treatment plans based on patient goals and rehabilitation objectives. Provide therapy to improve: o Speech intelligibility o Language comprehension and expression o Cognitive-communication skills o Voice and respiratory support for communication o Safe swallowing and oral intake Implement compensatory and restorative interventions for dysphagia management.
Recommend appropriate dietary modifications and swallowing precautions in collaboration with the medical and nutrition teams. Monitor patient progress and modify treatment plans as required. Multidisciplinary Team Participation Collaborate closely with physiatrists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers, nursing staff, and dietitians.
Participate actively in interdisciplinary team meetings, goal-setting sessions, family conferences, and discharge planning. Contribute to comprehensive rehabilitation programs that address physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and communication needs. Patient and Family Education Educate patients and caregivers regarding communication disorders, swallowing safety, therapy goals, and home management strategies.
Train family members and caregivers in communication facilitation techniques and safe feeding practices. Provide recommendations for ongoing rehabilitation and community reintegration.
Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology / Speech and Language Therapy or equivalent recognized qualification. Desirable Experience working with patients with stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and other acquired neurological disorders. Training in instrumental swallowing assessment techniques. Experience in inpatient rehabilitation settings.