Speech and Language Pathologist Clinical Fellow Program

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab•Chicago, IL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Speech and Language Pathologist Program Clinical Fellow (P-CF) participates in a 12-month training program, under the supervision of a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. The role involves planning, conducting, and evaluating programs for assigned patients to improve their communication skills. This includes assessing patients with communication problems and dysphagia, typically of neurogenic origin, developing and modifying treatment programs based on patient progress, instructing patients, and maintaining clinical records. The program includes a structured curriculum, clinical mentorship in evidence-based practice and translational research, and work in both inpatient and day rehab settings. Fellows can individualize their curriculum, participate in rounds, present case studies, complete professional projects, and receive training in areas of interest. Each fellow is supervised by an SLP mentor with scheduled meetings and professional development workshops. Fellows will complete their Clinical Fellowship Year and apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competency (CCC) through ASHA when eligible. Ideal candidates possess excellent communication skills, a team-oriented mindset, adaptability in a fast-paced environment, and a commitment to learning, patient-centered care, and professional growth. The P-CF will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab's vision, mission, and core values, and exhibit core attributes such as Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service, and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence).

Requirements

Master's or doctoral degree in Speech-Language Pathology from a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Temporary license as Speech-Language Pathologist if in Clinical Fellowship Year.
Current CPR or BLS certification from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross required.
Complete the SRAIS training programs and utilizes SRAIS in performing job duties, as needed.
Understanding the growth and development of infant, child, adolescent, and geriatric patients.
Ability to interpret growth and development related information to assure patient needs are met.
Interpersonal skills necessary to communicate effectively with patients and families in providing treatment and with physicians, audiologist and other closely related clinical professionals in order to gather and exchange patient information.
Analytical skills necessary to administer and evaluate standardized speech/language tests, evaluate patient capabilities, develop treatment plans and monitor patient progress.
Ability to adhere to the Code of Ethics established by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association.
Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally, and up to 10 pounds frequently to transfer and position patients.

Nice To Haves

Clinical Specialty Recognition by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association or certification in neurological communication disorders by the Academy of Neurological Communication Disorders and Sciences is desired.

Responsibilities

Evaluate patient's speech, language and swallowing abilities in order to formulate and conduct treatment plan designed to improve communicative efficiency of patients with communication problems.
Establish patient treatment goals tailored to each patient's needs and capabilities.
Review patient's chart, interview patient/family and consult with physicians, audiologists and other relevant clinical professionals in order to evaluate patient condition according to standard procedures.
Counsel patients, family members/significant others regarding communication deficits and instruct them in proper management techniques.
Monitor patient progress, re-establish goals and revise treatment, and alert physicians to changes in patient's condition.
Evaluate patient’s current pain levels (0-10) and history of recent pain experience; provide appropriate pain education and intervention in consultation with physician and pain specialists as needed; provide ongoing assessment of pain and implementation of tools for management.
Maintain clinical records including writing diagnostic reports, progress reports, discharge summaries, re-evaluations and rechecks, summarizing family and professional contact and logging daily statistics and other clinical data.
Attend patient team conferences, clinics, in-service education classes, and meetings in order to gather and exchange patient/treatment information.
Perform all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.