Professional Competencies in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology is designed for the professional issues course at the graduate level in a speech-language pathology or audiology program. ASHA recently updated the curriculum standards for master’s level programs to include a list of professional competencies, identifying a need for direct instruction in professional competencies for SLP students. The purpose of this text will be to provide that direct instruction in professional competency and soft-skills. Topics such as cultural competence, professional duties, collaborative practices clinical reasoning and evidence-based practices, and effective communication skills will be covered.

Many chapters in this textbook will be co-authored by non-SLPs who have extensive knowledge in the topic area. By pairing the expertise of individuals outside of SLPs with the author, professional competencies can be taught in-depth and applied to clinical cases and situations.

This textbook will employ a Theory to Practice approach through examples, practice, and application as follows:
• Theoretical concepts will be presented
• Theoretical concepts will be applied to the field by the author through examples
• Readers will then be given an opportunity to apply theories to provided case studies
• Suggestions for application in current settings will be given and questions for reflection will be provided