Speech & Language Therapist
Supporting communication, swallowing, and cognitive-communication after neurological injury
The basics
What is a speech and language therapist?
A speech and language therapist (SALT) is far more than someone who helps with speech. They support communication in all its forms, swallowing (dysphagia), voice, and the thinking skills we need to communicate well (cognitive-communication). After stroke, brain injury, or conditions like Parkinson's and MND, the brain controls these things differently - and a SALT helps retrain them.
They understand aphasia (difficulty understanding or producing words), dysarthria (slurred or weak speech), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing safely), and cognitive-communication problems (memory, attention, and processing affecting how you communicate). They can assess swallowing to make sure you can eat and drink safely. They also train carers and family, and can recommend assistive communication devices like AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) systems if needed.
A neurological SALT is trained to work with the brain's ability to relearn. They know about approaches like LSVT LOUD (for Parkinson's voice), aphasia-specific therapy, and how to support someone whose thinking has been affected. They often work in hospitals, community clinics, or privately, and can support you at different stages of recovery.
Who benefits
Who might benefit from seeing a speech and language therapist?
If you notice changes in your speech, difficulty understanding others, trouble swallowing, or changes in your memory or ability to follow conversations, a SALT can help. You don't need a diagnosis; if your communication or swallowing has changed, they can assess what's happening and work with you to improve things. Speech and language therapists also support people with dementia and children with speech and communication needs.
What to expect
What happens in a session?
Communication & Swallowing Assessment
Your SALT will listen to your speech, ask you questions, and observe how you communicate. They may assess swallowing safely by watching you drink and eat, or using a videofluoroscopy scan if needed. They'll check understanding, memory, and thinking.
Individualised Therapy Planning
Based on what they find, they'll create a therapy plan with you. This might focus on specific sounds, building vocabulary, improving how you put words together, practising safe swallowing, or building thinking skills like memory and attention.
Hands-On Therapy & Family Training
Sessions might include exercises, conversation practice, or neuromuscular techniques. Your SALT will teach your family and carers how to communicate with you effectively, what foods/drinks are safe, and how to encourage practice at home.
Home Programme & Devices
You'll get homework - exercises to practise, conversation techniques, or safe swallowing tips. If helpful, your SALT might recommend communication devices or apps to support your communication at home and socially.
Finding support
How do I find a speech and language therapist?
In the UK, you can access SALT through the NHS, usually via your GP, stroke team, or neurologist. There are often waiting lists, so many people also access private SALTs who can see you more quickly. Either way, look for therapists with experience working with neurological conditions - this matters more than general speech therapy training.
Use the My Rehab Journey directory to find speech and language therapists near you. You can filter by location and see their experience. Many will offer an initial consultation to discuss what you need and how they can help.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a speech and language therapist?
Through the NHS, you'll usually need a referral from your GP, stroke team, or neurologist. Privately, you can self-refer. For swallowing concerns, ask your doctor urgently.
How much does private SALT cost?
Private speech and language therapy typically costs £50-£150 per session in the UK, depending on experience and location. Some offer reduced rates or session packages.
Will a SALT help with my memory or thinking, or just speech?
SALTs can help with both. They support memory, attention, word-finding, and cognitive-communication (how you process and use information to communicate). Speech is just one part of what they do.
What qualifications should a SALT have?
Look for HCPC registration and RCSLT membership (Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists). For neurological work, ask about their experience with aphasia, dysarthria, or your specific condition.
Can I see a SALT and a physiotherapist at the same time?
Yes, absolutely. They work on different aspects of recovery and often collaborate. If you have swallowing difficulties, both can support you safely.
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Related resources
Related practitioners
Occupational Therapist · Clinical Psychologist · Neuropsychologist
Conditions we work with
Stroke · Brain Injury · Parkinson's · Dementia · MND
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