Obtaining Connecticut Speech and Language Pathologist Licensure: Your Complete Guide
Are you considering a career as a Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP) in Connecticut? If so, understanding the licensure process is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from educational prerequisites to continuing education requirements, ensuring you're fully prepared to embark on this rewarding career path.
Educational Requirements
Before applying for licensure, ensure you meet the educational requirements:
- Hold a master's or doctorate degree in speech and language pathology from a program accredited by the Educational Standards Board of the American Speech Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
- Complete a Supervised Professional Experience (SPE) period in speech and language pathology.
- Successful completion of the NTE Specialty Area Test in speech and language pathology administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Supervised Professional Experience (SPE)
To qualify for Connecticut licensure, you must complete a period of supervised professional experience:
- 36 weeks and 1,080 hours of full-time employment or 48 weeks and 1,440 hours of part-time employment under the supervision of a licensed speech and language pathologist.
- Supervision must include at least 6 sessions per month, totaling 4 hours, with at least 2 hours of direct, on-site observation.
Documentation Requirements
Applicants must arrange for the following documents to be submitted directly to the licensing office:
- A master's or doctorate transcript verifying the award of a degree in speech and language pathology.
- Verification of completion of the Supervised Professional Experience.
- Verification of successful completion of the NTE, if applicable.
- Verification of Certificate in Clinical Competency from ASHA, if applicable.
- Verification of all licenses held, current or expired, from each state.
Application Process and Fees
Applications are only accepted online. The application fee is $200, with a renewal fee of $205 and a reinstatement fee of $200. For applicants licensed in another US state for at least four years, a license may be issued if all other criteria are met.
Continuing Education Requirements
Connecticut licensees must participate in continuing education activities:
- Complete a minimum of 20 hours of qualifying continuing education within the preceding 24-month period.
- Qualifying activities include workshops, online courses, and journal studies accepted by ASHA or other approved organizations.
- Licensees must retain records of attendance for at least three years and submit them upon request.
Exemptions and Waivers
First-time license renewals are exempt from continuing education requirements. Licensees not engaged in active practice may apply for an exemption, provided they do not engage in professional practice until requirements are met.
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