Everybody knows someone who has had communication difficulties at some point in their life. Whether it's a toddler learning their first words, a loved one recuperating from a stroke or even a friend attempting to minimise their stutter, the path to discovering one's voice can be both tough and gratifying. Suffice to say, in these particular situations, a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) is typically providing guidance behind the scenes.

SLPs play an indispensable role in assisting people of all ages who have difficulty communicating and swallowing. While SLPs are commonly associated with paediatric care, their competence goes far beyond that. SLPs also specialise in managing and treating complex conditions that often affect older adults, including aphasia (a language disorder caused by damage in specific areas of the brain), dysarthria (a motor speech disorder), and dysphagia (a swallowing disorder). These challenges are especially common in individuals who experienced a Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA), more commonly known as a stroke, as well as in individuals with neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and motor neurone diseases.

In addition to these, SLPs provide vital support through augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for individuals who are unable to use their verbal language effectively. They also work with those experiencing voice disorders, helping them restore or enhance their vocal abilities for clearer and more effective communication. SLPs also provide training and education to other professionals as well as family members and primary caregivers. Collaboration with specialists from several disciplines is crucial in a multidisciplinary environment. In fact, SLPs collaborate with a myriad of other professionals, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers and more.

To facilitate liaison and promote professional development between SLPs, the Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (ASLP) was founded. ASLP is a professional association launched in 1985 and registered with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations. ASLP brings together qualified SLPs in Malta and students studying to qualify in the field of Human Communication Sciences & Disorders. ASLP is a vehicle through which professional views can be disseminated to other organisations and public institutions, creating opportunities to raise public awareness regarding SLPs.

ASLP organises several CPD events and training workshops, for Speech Language Pathologists, other professionals, and the general public. In 2023, ASLP collaborated with the Speech Language Centre, within Primary Healthcare to present the first national Speech Language Pathology conference in Malta. The conference explored the latest advances in speech and language therapy, education, research and practice. It was funded through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector.

Within the professional community, the ASLP is well-established, with affiliations in various significant organisations that promote and further the field of speech-language pathology. It collaborates with the Malta Health Network and the Malta Federation of Professional Associations, both of which are essential in fostering excellence and teamwork in professional practice and healthcare. Furthermore, ASLP is affiliated with the International Association of Communication Sciences and Disorders (IALP), which offers a global forum for exchanging information in the field of communication sciences, and the European Speech and Language Therapy Association (ESLA), which advocates for SLPs throughout the whole continent.

ASLP is also engaged in a project aimed towards the development and production of an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) application in the Maltese language. This application, KomunikAPP, is designed to support Maltese individuals with complex communication needs by providing a tailored communication system in their native language. Currently, those requiring a robust communication device are only limited to English-based software system, which might not fully meet their needs, particularly if Maltese is their one and only language. The new Maltese AAC app will be available on IOS and Android, and will bridge a significant gap, offering a more accessible tool for individuals seeking to enhance their ability to connect and communicate with their loved ones.

If you or a loved one is concerned with communication or swallowing, contacting an SLP directly is the recommended course of action. An SLP can offer personalised counsel and treatment targeted to your specific needs.

Association of Speech and Language Pathologists (ASLP) are full members of Malta Health Network www.maltahealthnetwork.org

Terrence Mifsud is a SLP and an ASLP committee member