About

Many of us take our ability to communicate for granted, but the ability to speak, hear and be heard is much more vital to our everyday lives than most of us realize. For those who have difficulty communicating, everyday interactions can pose significant challenges. A communication disorder may prevent an individual from performing well at work, asking for help, hearing instructions at school or even saying ‘I love you’.

Early Identification and Intervention are Key

Communication disorders can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical, emotional, social, vocational and financial well-being, which is why it’s important to identify problems early on. No matter how old you are, the earlier that a disorder is identified, the better the chances are for improvement.

What Do Communication Health Professionals Do?

Speech-language pathologists and audiologists work with people of all ages to identify, assess and treat a wide range of communication disorders. Speech-language pathologists are health professionals who identify, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. Audiologists are hearing health professionals who identify, diagnose and manage individuals with peripheral or central hearing loss, tinnitus, vestibular and balance disorders and other communication disorders across the lifespan. Communication health assistants are specifically trained to provide clinical services under the supervision of a speech-language pathologist or audiologist.

In addition to working in clinical settings, speech-language pathologists and audiologists work in research, education, advocacy, policy development and health administration.

About SAC

Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) is a member-driven organization that supports, promotes and elevates the professions of our members and associates. We are the only national organization passionately supporting and representing speech-language pathologists, audiologists and communication health assistants inclusively. Through this support, we champion the needs of people with communication disorders.

To learn more about SAC or to find a communication health professional near you, please visit www.sac-oac.ca.