What is an SLPA expected to do when assisting in screenings and assessments?

An SLPA plays a supportive role in the process of screenings and assessments, which includes setting up the testing environment as advised by the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). This task ensures that the assessment can proceed smoothly and in an organized manner, following the specific guidelines provided by the SLP.

Creating an appropriate environment for testing is critical because it helps minimize distractions, ensures that all necessary materials are readily available, and can contribute to the overall comfort of the individuals being assessed. This preparation is essential for obtaining accurate and valid assessment results. The SLPA’s responsibilities in this context are focused on facilitation and support, rather than on the interpretation or independent conduct of assessments, which should always be supervised by the SLP.