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What is the Arkansas Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (ABESPA)?

The Arkansas Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (ABESPA) was created by the Arkansas Legislature to safeguard the public’s health, safety, and welfare. ABESPA is responsible for consumer protection through the regulation of speech-language pathology and audiology practice.

Individuals who seek speech-language pathology and audiology services are entitled to receive quality care. In pursuit of that goal, the Board’s mission is to assure there is a process where consumers may file complaints against licensees or persons practicing speech-language pathology or audiology without a license.

What does the Board Do?

Audiologists

Who is an Audiologist?

Audiologists are healthcare professionals who provide patient-centered care in the prevention, identification, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment of hearing, balance, and other auditory disorders for people of all ages. Hearing and balance disorders are complex with medical, psychological, physical, social, educational, and employment implications. Those hearing and balance disorders can be assessed, treated, and rehabilitated by an audiologist. Treatment services require audiologists to have knowledge of existing and emerging technologies, as well as interpersonal skills to counsel and guide patients and their family members through the rehabilitative process. Audiologists provide professional and personalized services to minimize the negative impact of hearing and balance disorders, leading to improved outcomes and a higher quality of life.

What does an Audiologist do?

Requirements for Licensing

Speech-Language Pathologists

Who is a Speech-Language Pathologist?

Speech-language pathologists (sometimes called speech therapists) assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Speech, language, and swallowing disorders result from a variety of causes, such as a stroke, brain injury, hearing loss, developmental delay, Parkinson’s disease, a cleft palate, or autism spectrum disorders.

What do Speech-Language Pathologists do?

Requirements for Licensing

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants

Who is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant?

Speech-language pathology assistants are individuals who, following academic and on-the-job training, perform tasks as prescribed, directed, and supervised by licensed speech-language pathologists.

What does Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant do?

Requirements for Licensing

SLPA Licensing Information

Helpful Consumer Links

Public Health Accrediation Board
Arkansas Department of Health
© 2017 Arkansas Department of Health. All Rights Reserved. www.healthy.arkansas.gov
4815 W. Markham, Little Rock, AR 72205-3867
1-800-462-0599