Barriers and Facilitators to Diversity in Speech-Language Pathology

A speech-language pathologist, often referred to as "speech therapist", is a healthcare professional who specializes in the development of speech, language, and communication. The profession of speech-language pathology is lacking in diversity, with over 90% of American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association members identifying as White and monolingual.

The purpose of this research is to understand what the barriers are for minoritized students pursuing degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders, as well as the supportive and positive factors that facilitate pursuit of a career in the field.

Detecting what obstacles may be in the way for minorities attempting to enter the profession would provide guideposts for how to systematically improve the diversity of the field so the profession can better reflect the diverse clients that are served in our communities.