SLPA Supervision Requirements

The Washington Administrative Code (WAC) establishes clear standards for supervising Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs).

Supervisor Qualifications

An SLPA must be supervised by a speech-language pathologist who is either:

• Licensed under chapter 18.35 RCW, or
• Certified as an educational staff associate (ESA) by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

(Source: WAC 246-828-112)

Supervisor Definitions

• Direct Supervision– The supervisor is physically present on-site and observes task performance.
• Indirect Supervision - The supervisor provides guidance and oversight but does not need to be physically present.

(Source: WAC 246-828-025)

Tasks Requiring Direct Supervision

The following activities must be performed with the supervisor physically present:

• Participating in parent conferences, case conferences, or interdisciplinary team meetings.
• Assisting during evaluation and assessment procedures.

(Source: WAC 246-828-112)

Tasks Allowed Under Direct or Indirect Supervision

The supervising speech-language pathologist may authorize these tasks under either level of supervision:

• Conducting speech-language and hearing screenings without interpreting results.
• Documenting performance and reporting to the supervisor.
• Implementing treatment plans and protocols, including IEPs and IFSPs developed by the supervisor.
• Preparing materials, scheduling activities, and performing other clerical tasks.
• Checking and maintaining equipment.
• Signing treatment notes and related documentation, as directed.

(Source: WAC 246-828-112)

Prohibited Tasks

SLPAs are not permitted to

• Perform diagnosis, evaluation, or clinical interpretation.
• Screen or diagnose feeding or swallowing disorders.
• Develop or modify treatment plans.
• Implement therapy outside the treatment plan.
• Select caseloads.
• Discharge patients, clients, or students.
• Refer patients, clients, or students for additional services.

(Source: WAC 246-828-112)

Clinical Experience Requirement for Certification

SLPA applicants must complete 100 hours of supervised experience within one year, with at least 50 hours under direct supervision.

(Source: WAC 246-828-617)