Speech-Language Pathologist - Midwest

As a Speech-Language Pathologist at Parallel, your core responsibilities will include conducting evaluations and delivering direct therapy services to children, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to create individualized treatment plans and IEPs, continuously monitoring each child's progress, and effectively communicating with parents, staff, and students about their progress and needs. You will also handle essential documentation for IEP reports and participate actively in team meetings to ensure optimal outcomes for every student.

To qualify for the Speech-Language Pathologist position at Parallel, you need to possess an ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) and have at least one year of experience in providing IEP-directed therapy and evaluations in a school setting (please note that your Clinical Fellowship Year does not count towards this experience). Strong communication skills, comfort with technology, and availability during school hours are also essential for this role.

At Parallel, we value our Speech-Language Pathologists and provide extensive support to help you thrive in your career. We offer streamlined scheduling systems, administrative assistance with templates and tools, smart client matching to optimize your impact, and access to comprehensive client information. Additionally, we handle billing and insurance paperwork, provide testing materials, and engage in community events to foster real-world collaboration and innovative solutions.

While prior experience in telehealth is not strictly required, having comfort and familiarity with virtual platforms will be crucial for success as a Speech-Language Pathologist at Parallel. We utilize technology to enable flexible service delivery, so being tech-savvy will enhance your ability to engage with students and families effectively in a remote setting.

Parallel is committed to the professional growth of our Speech-Language Pathologists by providing opportunities for participation in innovative programs and community events, as well as fostering an environment that welcomes your feedback. As our organization expands, there will be various career advancement opportunities available, allowing you to take your career to the next level while making a significant impact on students' lives.

In developing and implementing an IEP, I start by conducting thorough assessments to identify the student’s specific communication needs. I collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including teachers and parents, to craft measurable goals and tailor interventions that align with each student’s unique capabilities. Regular monitoring and adjustments ensure the IEP remains relevant, and I maintain open communication with all stakeholders throughout the process.

When working with diverse students, I focus on building relationships and establishing rapport to create a safe and supportive environment. I adapt my therapies to accommodate varying backgrounds and communication styles, employing culturally relevant materials and techniques that resonate with each student. Continuous education on cultural competency also helps me to enhance my effectiveness in meeting their unique needs.

To keep parents engaged, I focus on clear and open communication, providing regular updates on their child's progress and strategies they can implement at home. I also encourage their participation in meetings and share resources to empower them to support their child’s development outside of therapy. Involving them in the process fosters a strong partnership that benefits the child's growth.

I measure the effectiveness of my sessions through a combination of quantitative metrics, such as progress towards specific IEP goals, and qualitative observations of the student’s engagement and motivation. Regular assessments and feedback from parents and teachers also inform adjustments to therapy strategies, ensuring the approach is always aligned with the student’s evolving needs and goals.

To manage my time and workload while working remotely, I set clear schedules and prioritize tasks using digital planning tools. I break down larger projects into manageable steps and allocate specific times for documentation, therapy sessions, and meetings. Regular check-ins with my team also keep me accountable and help me stay organized, ensuring that I provide quality care without feeling overwhelmed.

To make therapy engaging for children, I incorporate creative and interactive activities that align with their interests. Using games, storytelling, and multimedia tools keeps sessions lively and fosters a fun learning environment. I also ensure that the activities, while entertaining, are tailored to target specific communication goals effectively, creating a balanced approach that promotes learning and enjoyment.

One challenging case involved a student who was consistently resistant to therapy due to past negative experiences. To resolve this, I focused on building trust by creating a safe space and incorporating play-based activities that aligned with his interests. Gradually, he became more engaged, and after establishing a rapport, we successfully implemented targeted interventions that improved his communication skills significantly.

I stay current with the latest developments by engaging in continuous professional development, attending relevant workshops and conferences, and reading peer-reviewed journals. I also participate in online forums and networks where SLPs share insights and resources. Staying informed allows me to incorporate innovative techniques and evidence-based practices into my therapy sessions.

Technology plays a significant role in my sessions, especially in a remote setting. I leverage telehealth platforms to deliver engaging interactive therapy, using apps and digital resources that support communication goals. Technology also helps me track progress efficiently and keeps both students and parents involved, fostering a collaborative environment while addressing therapy needs.

I want to work with Parallel because of the organization’s commitment to empowering students with learning differences and the innovative support they provide to SLPs. The opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, focus on quality care without the burden of excessive administrative tasks, and contribute to a meaningful mission aligns perfectly with my passion for helping children achieve their communication goals.