Sep 03, 2025

School or Clinical SLP? The Benefits of Both

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are uniquely positioned in healthcare and education to help people of all ages overcome communication and swallowing challenges. Their skills are in high demand across a variety of settings, from schools to hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. At Aequor, we recognize  the incredible versatility of this profession and proudly staff SLPs in both school-based and clinical roles, giving them the flexibility to choose the path that best fits their career goals, passions, and lifestyle.

In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between working as an SLP in schools versus clinical settings, highlight the advantages of each environment, and show how Aequor can help you thrive wherever your calling takes you.

Working as an SLP in Schools

For many SLPs, the school setting provides a rewarding opportunity to make a direct and lasting impact on children’s academic and social success.

Key Responsibilities in Schools

1. Assessing and treating students with speech, language, and communication disorders.
2. Collaborating with teachers, paraprofessionals, and special education teams to support learning.
3. Developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and tracking progress toward goals.
4. Promoting inclusion by helping students participate fully in the classroom.

Advantages of School-Based Work

1. Consistency and Routine: Work aligns with the school calendar, offering predictable hours and holidays.
2. Collaboration: SLPs in schools are part of a multidisciplinary team, working closely with educators and families.
3. Impact on Development: Early intervention and consistent support can transform a child’s educational experience and long-term success.
4. Ideal for Work-Life Balance: Summers and school breaks allow for personal time, continuing education, or short-term travel assignments.

Read more from the perspective of an Aequor school SLP in this blog post.

Working as an SLP in Clinical Settings

Clinical environments offer SLPs the chance to work with a diverse patient population, ranging from children to adults, in medical and rehabilitative care.

Key Responsibilities in Clinical Roles

1. Diagnosing and treating swallowing disorders, voice issues, and communication impairments.
2. Working with patients recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, or neurological conditions.
3. Designing individualized treatment plans to restore function and improve quality of life.
4. Collaborating with physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, and physical therapists in interdisciplinary care.

Advantages of Clinical Work

1. Variety of Cases: Clinical SLPs often see a wide range of conditions and age groups, making the work dynamic and intellectually stimulating.
2. Specialization Opportunities: Ability to focus on areas like dysphagia, neurological rehabilitation, or pediatrics.
3. Professional Growth: Exposure to complex medical cases fosters advanced skills and knowledge.
4. Immediate Impact: Patients often experience visible improvements in function and quality of life during treatment.

Read more about one of Aequor’s outstanding clinical SLPs in this blog post.

Choosing the Right Path for You

1. The decision between school-based and clinical roles often comes down to personal interests and lifestyle preferences:
2. Do you thrive in structured environments and love working with children? A school setting may be the perfect fit.
3. Do you enjoy medical collaboration and treating complex conditions across the lifespan? A clinical setting might be ideal.

Why Partner with Aequor?

At Aequor, we understand that every SLP’s career journey is unique. That’s why we staff SLPs in both education and healthcare settings, giving you the flexibility to grow, explore, and find the role that inspires you most.

1. School Assignments: From public school districts to specialized education programs, we connect SLPs with opportunities to empower students and support academic achievement.
2. Clinical Assignments: Our partnerships with hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics allow SLPs to work on the frontlines of patient recovery and rehabilitation.
3. Travel or Local Options: Whether you’re looking for adventure in new cities as a travel SLP or prefer to stay closer to home, we’ll match you with assignments that fit your lifestyle.
4. Support You Can Count On: With competitive pay, benefits, and a dedicated recruiter by your side, Aequor makes every assignment smooth and rewarding.

Unlock Your Potential with Aequor

Whether you see yourself helping students find their voice in the classroom or supporting patients in regaining communication skills after a life-changing event, your role as an SLP is invaluable. With Aequor, you don’t have to choose between education and healthcare—you have the freedom to explore both.

Ready to take the next step in your career as an SLP? Browse our open positions on our job board, and https://www.aequor.com/connect-with-a-recruiter/ and let us help you find the perfect school or clinical assignment to match your goals.

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