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Kaihaumanu Reo ā-Waha

Speech-Language Therapy

Job Description

Speech-language therapists are experts in supporting patients, of all ages, who have problems swallowing and verbally/non-verbally communicating, by assessing and treating their specific needs.

These problems can include listening, writing, reading, speaking and more.

 

Pay

Speech-language therapist pay can range from $77,000 to $114,000 depending on experience and role.

Work Hours

Speech-language therapists usually work normal business hours.

Study length

Becoming a Speech-language therapist requires 4-5 years of training.

To become a Speech-language therapist you need:

A completed Bachelor of Speech and Language Therapy with Honours.
Complete and register with the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists' Association (NZSTA).

A Speech-language therapist can also specialise in roles such as:

Pediatric Speech Therapy
Adult Neurogenic Communication Disorders
Voice, Fluency, Articulation Disorders
Cleft Palate Rehabilitation
Dysphagia (Swallowing Disorders)
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Learn more about becoming a Speech-Language Therapist:

Hear more from the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’ Association (NZSTA)
Source: Pride, L. et al. (2020) How to become an SLT, New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’ Association. Available at: https://speechtherapy.org.nz/careers/how-to-become-an-slt/
Speech-language therapist (2024) careers.govt.nz. Available at: https://www.careers.govt.nz/jobs-database/health-and-community/health/speech-language-therapist/ (Accessed: 10 February 2025).