Supervising Speech-Language
Pathology Assistants

Who may supervise speech-language pathology assistants?

ASHA's 1995 Guidelines define a supervisor as a speech-language pathologist certified by ASHA and licensed by the state (where applicable), who has been practicing for at least 2 years following ASHA certification and has completed at least one preservice course or continuing education unit in supervision.

How much supervision is recommended?

The amount and type of supervision required should be based on the skills and experience of the speech-language pathology assistant, the needs of patients/clients served, the service setting, the tasks assigned, and other factors.   ASHA's Code of Ethics requires certificate holders to provide "appropriate supervision."  In ASHA's 1995 speech-language pathology assistant guidelines, the minimum amount of supervision suggested is 30% weekly (at least 20% direct) for the first 90 workdays and 20% (at least 10% direct) after the initial work period.  Direct supervision means on-site, in-view observation and guidance by a speech-language pathologist while an assigned activity is performed by support personnel.  The guidelines also recommend that a speech-language pathologist supervise no more than three speech language pathology assistants.