In Arkansas, a registration process is used to recognize and approve the use of Speech-Language Pathology Assistants in all settings. Individuals who wish to work as a speech-language pathology assistants (SLPA) must be licensed, along with their supervising speech-language pathologist, with the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech Pathology and Audiology (ABESPA).

Speech-Language Pathology Assistant licenses are issued on a yearly basis and run through June 30 and must be renewed by July 1 each year.

To apply for a Speech-Language Pathology-Assistant License requires the following documents:

1. Completed application of prospective speech-language pathology assistant and SLP –Supervisor (two separate applications)
2. An original or certified copy of transcript(s) showing evidence of a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or required academic training as specified in requirements for a speech-language pathology assistant, Section 13.10 of the rules and regulations. Transcripts should be sent directly from the college or university to the board office or be in an envelope sealed by the college or university.
3. Documentation of clinical practicum hours signed by the Chairman of the speech-language pathology department at the educational institution that provided this training (minimum 25 clock hours of program-based observation plus a minimum of 30 clock hours of direct clinical practicum training as a SLP-Assistant trainee.) This requirement is applicable only to individuals without a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology.

Resources:

• SLPA Application
• SLPA Supervisor Application
• SLPA & Supervisor Training Course