What is the main focus of a speech therapist in a client's care?

A speech therapist primarily focuses on assessing and improving a client’s ability to communicate. This involves evaluating various aspects of speech and language, including articulation, fluency, voice quality, and the understanding of language. The therapist works with clients who may have difficulties due to a range of reasons, such as developmental delays, neurological disorders, or trauma.

By assessing the client's communication abilities, the speech therapist can identify specific challenges and create tailored intervention strategies. These strategies may include exercises, techniques to enhance communication skills, and methods to improve cognitive-communication abilities, all aimed at helping clients express themselves more effectively.

While administering medication, monitoring chronic conditions, and evaluating dietary needs are important aspects of healthcare, they fall outside the primary responsibilities of a speech therapist. These duties are typically handled by other healthcare professionals such as nurses, doctors, and dietitians, who specialize in those areas. This distinction clarifies the specialized role of the speech therapist within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.