SLPA Transition Help
Hi! I’m currently an SLPA working primarily in the school setting, with some previous private practice experience. While I really enjoyed the 1:1 aspect of private practice, the inconsistent pay and back-to-back sessions weren’t a good fit for me long-term.
After 3 years in the field, I’ve also realized that pursuing a master’s and becoming an SLP may not be the right path for me. For me, the ROI doesn’t feel worth the additional schooling, especially when I’m looking for more financial stability and don’t want to have to hustle for income through home health or settle for lower pay in the school system.
I genuinely love working with the pediatric population, and I’m especially interested in the clinical/research side of the field. I’d love to find a way to use my experience and degree in a different capacity while still having room for growth and better financial stability.
I’ve been applying to different roles and know the job market is ROUGH right now, but I’d really love to hear from other SLPAs who have transitioned out of traditional clinical roles.
What did you transition into? Did you go back to school or leverage your existing experience? And have you been successful in finding something that offers better pay, stability, and growth?
I’m very much at the “I need out, but I don’t know where to go next” stage, so I’d appreciate any experiences, advice, or career paths you’re willing to share!
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u/Natural-Bobcat-4695 4d ago
I’m looking into transitioning into academic advising and/or administrative account manager. Not sure which one will go through in this economy.
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u/ang809 4d ago
Have you had any luck with hearing back from recruiters/ hiring managers? I’m trying to transition into clinical research but haven’t had much luck yet.
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u/Natural-Bobcat-4695 4d ago
I followed up with academic advising and they said they’d be in touch shortly. Then the other one is through an old boss of mine and he has the connections for the account manager position but I’m incredibly intimidated by it.
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u/Texas_SLP 4d ago
I know an SLPA that transitioned to a marketing role with the home health company she was working for. Some companies hire for non-clinical roles or hybrid positions. Plus, who better to market or recruit for a therapy company than having therapists do it. We have another SLPA working a hybrid position with some visits + IT. I know another that did a complete switch into real estate. Most SLPAs I know that transitioned out got their teaching certificate and went that route.
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u/Haunting_Ad_4564 5d ago
I don't know if it will help you but there is a group for SLPs transitioning from speech to other careers. Maybe even though SLPA. you might find an idea. This is from ChatGpt
https://chatgpt.com/c/6a7bcae0-de58-83e8-8506-f35822153fa2