Speech-Language Pathologist

The Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) at Serenity Oaks IRF evaluates and treats patients with communication, cognitive-communication, swallowing, and voice disorders in the inpatient rehabilitation setting. The SLP develops individualized treatment plans, contributes GG cognitive scores to the IRF-PAI process, and serves as a core IDT member providing expert clinical guidance on communication and dysphagia management. This role requires close collaboration with nursing, dietary, and other therapy disciplines to ensure safe swallowing, effective communication, and successful discharge planning for every patient.

2. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform comprehensive speech-language pathology evaluations including communication, cognitive-communication, voice, fluency, and swallowing assessments.
• Develop and implement individualized SLP treatment plans with measurable, patient-centered goals.
• Provide evidence-based speech therapy interventions including aphasia treatment, dysarthria management, cognitive rehabilitation, and dysphagia therapy.
• Conduct and interpret clinical swallowing evaluations (CSE) and coordinate videofluoroscopic swallow studies (MBSS) or FEES as clinically indicated.
• Develop and communicate dietary texture and liquid consistency recommendations in collaboration with the RD and nursing team.
• Complete and document GG cognitive scores within required timeframes per IRF-PAI requirements.
• Participate actively in weekly IDT meetings; communicate SLP findings, goal progress, and discharge recommendations.
• Provide patient and family education on communication strategies, swallowing safety, and home programs.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of evaluations, daily notes, progress summaries, and discharge records in the EHR.
• Coordinate with nursing on dysphagia management, safe feeding techniques, and aspiration precautions.
• Coordinate with dietary on modified texture diets and thickened liquid preparation.
• Contribute to the IRF-PAI process in collaboration with the Rehabilitation Program Director.
• Participate in QAPI activities and contribute to SLP quality improvement initiatives.
• Maintain ASHA CCC-SLP certification and continuing education in evidence-based SLP practice.

3. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Required: Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) or equivalent graduate degree from a CAA-accredited program.
• Required: Completion of ASHA Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) or equivalent.
• Required: Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA required or in process at hire.
• Preferred: One (1) or more years of SLP experience in inpatient rehabilitation or acute care.

4. LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION & REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

• Required: Current, unrestricted Speech-Language Pathologist license issued by the Louisiana Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (LBESPA).
• Required: Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA, or completion expected within 9 months of hire per CFY timeline.
• Required: Current BLS/CPR certification (AHA or Red Cross).
• Preferred: Specialty certification in dysphagia or brain injury rehabilitation.
• Required: Louisiana SLP license verified through LBESPA prior to and throughout employment.

5. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Expert knowledge of speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders in rehabilitation populations.
• Proficiency in clinical swallowing evaluation (CSE) and interpretation of instrumental swallowing studies.
• Knowledge of GG cognitive scoring and IRF-PAI documentation requirements.
• Understanding of dysphagia diet texture frameworks (IDDSI) and safe feeding protocols.
• Proficiency with EHR documentation in an inpatient rehabilitation setting.
• Strong IDT communication skills; ability to translate SLP findings for non-SLP team members.
• Knowledge of aphasia treatment, AAC strategies, and cognitive rehabilitation frameworks.
• Understanding of CMS 60% Rule diagnoses with SLP implications (stroke, TBI, brain tumors).
• Commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered SLP practice.
• Ability to provide effective patient and family education on communication and swallowing safety.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Inpatient Rehab Hospital: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) (Required)

Work Location: In person