Speech-language pathologists treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. They use specialized instruments as well as written or oral tests to determine the nature and extent of impairment, and to record and analyze speech irregularities. For individuals with little or no speech, speech-language pathologists choose alternative communication systems, including automated devices and sign language, and teach their use

Audiologists treat persons with hearing related disorders. They use audiometers and other testing devices to measure loudness and the level at which a person begins to hear sounds. They also measure the patient’s ability to distinguish between sounds and extent of their hearing loss. Audiologists can work in clinical settings or in the field where they can test noise levels in workplaces and conduct hearing protection programs.

Many speech pathologists are employed in public schools. Other speech pathologists and most audiologists work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, college or community speech and hearing clinics, or in private practice.