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SLP Assistants


Governor Kelly signed HB2761 on April 3, 2026, enacting licensure for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants. You can read the bill HERE. It goes into effect Jan 1, 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions about SLPAs in Kansas

What is an SLPA?  

A Speech Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs) works under a licensed Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) and is actively involved in providing treatment for patients with various communication disorders. SLPAs play a support role and can be used to increase the availability, frequency, and efficiency of services.  

What’s the difference between an SLPA, a speech para, and an aide? 

SLPAs require formal training with minimal academic and clinical preparation as specified by the state’s licensing body. A speech para is a person without the minimum qualifications necessary to be considered an SLPA. Paras may have some training, usually provided by the supervising SLP. Paras assist with activity preparation, transporting students from class to the speech therapy room, assisting with teletherapy technology issues and providing direct services according to a plan developed by a licensed speech-language pathologist. A speech aide typically has no formal training and performs clerical or logistical support tasks only. 

Will SLPAs be used to replace SLPs? 

No. SLPAs are intended to support – not replace – SLPs. They help enhance service availability and efficiency but cannot perform tasks that require clinical judgment. For example, SLPAs cannot write intervention goals or interpret evaluation results.  

What educational requirements will be necessary to become licensed in Kansas as an SLPA? 

  • A bachelor's degree in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) from a regionally accredited institution; OR a bachelor’s degree in another field AND 24 hours of core coursework in CSD; OR completion of an SLPA program from a regionally accredited institution (e.g., an associate’s degree, a technical training program, a certificate program) 

  • Evidence of a supervised clinical experience that consists of 100 clock hours of supervised clinical fieldwork with direct client contact/clinical practicum that meets the following requirement:

  • Hours may be completed via an academic practicum or on the job with a currently licensed speech-language pathologist  

What practicum hours will be needed to be licensed in Kansas as an SLPA? 

Applicants must complete a minimum of 100 hours of clinical fieldwork under the supervision of a licensed SLP. 

Will ASHA certification be required to be a licensed SLPA in KS? 

No.  ASHA certification will not be required for Kansas licensure; however, it may be required by some employers and specific insurance carriers.   

Will SLPAs in Kansas have to take an examination? 

No. A state-specific exam will not be required for licensure in Kansas, but those pursuing ASHA certification must pass the ASHA Assistants Certification Exam. 

Will there be continuing education requirements for SLPAs in Kansas? 

Yes. SLPAs will be required to complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain licensure.

How will I apply to become a licensed SLPA in Kansas? 

Applicants will apply through the licensing body for Kansas, currently the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), and provide documentation of educational qualifications, completed clinical hours, and supervision. 

What will the requirements be for the supervising SLP? 

  • Hold a current Kansas license 

  • Have at least 2 years of experience (after the CFY) 

  • Complete at least two hours of professional development in the area of supervision - one time requirement

  • Complete at least one hour of professional development in the area of ethics every three years. 

  • Meet all billing eligibility requirements for state/employer 

Will remote supervision be allowed? 

Yes, tele-supervision be permitted as long as it meets state guidelines for frequency and quality. 

What will happen if supervision requirements are not met? 

Failure to meet supervision requirements can result in disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation for both the SLPA and supervising SLP. 

Can an SLPA supervise another SLPA? 

No. Only licensed SLPs who meet the minimum standards to be supervising SLPs can supervise SLPAs. 

How does billing look for the SLPA in Kansas? 

SLPAs cannot bill independently. Services must be billed under the supervising SLP’s credentials, and Medicaid/insurance rules must be followed. Currently, Kansas Medicaid does not reimburse for services provided by an SLPA in the school setting.  

Can an SLPA be supervised by more than one SLP? 

Yes, but each supervising SLP must meet all supervision requirements and document their role. 

Can the SLP have more than one SLPA under their license? 

Yes,  SLPs can supervise up to 2 full-time or 3 part time SLPAs.  

Which populations fall within the scope of practice for SLPAs? 

SLPAs can work with a variety of populations, including children and adults. Populations depend on the work setting. However, most SLPAs in Kansas work in schools, early intervention, or private practice.   

What will be the scope of practice for the SLPA in Kansas? 

The supervising SLP assumes full responsibility for all services provided or omitted by the SLPA. Under the direction of their supervising SLP, SLPAs may: 

  • Conduct speech-language or hearing screenings (without interpretation) using protocols developed by the SLP. 

  • Provide direct treatment to clients identified by the SLP. 

  • Follow and implement documented treatment plans. 

  • Document client progress, collect data, and prepare therapy materials. 

  • Assist during assessments and with clerical tasks (e.g., charts, records). 

  • Maintain equipment and verify annual audiometric calibration. 

  • Support research, in-service training, and public relations efforts. 

  • Submit documentation/treatment notes for SLP review and co-signature. 

  • Coach caregivers on communication strategies as directed. 

  • Deliver teletherapy services under SLP guidance. 

  • Collaborate with team members in compliance with HIPAA and FERPA. 

Will SLPAs be allowed to provide telepractice services in Kansas? 

Yes, SLPAs may provide telepractice services under supervision and in accordance with state and ASHA guidelines. 

Will the SLPA be able to perform screenings and evaluations? 

SLPAs may assist with screenings, but cannot perform evaluations or interpret results. 

What will an SLPA not be able to do in Kansas?  

SLPA must not: 

  • Perform or interpret diagnostic tests or evaluations. 

  • Make decisions or represent the SLP in IEP, eligibility, or interdisciplinary meetings. 

  • Independently share assessment results or interpretive information with clients or families. 

  • Create, modify, or sign treatment plans or official documents without SLP co-signature. 

  • Work with clients without a documented treatment plan or proper training. 

  • Identify, recommend, refer, or discharge clients from services without SLP involvement. 

  • Provide interpretive information from SLP reports. 

  • Present themselves as a speech-language pathologist. 

  • Advertise or promote services independently. 

  • Conduct feeding or swallowing therapy.  

  • Treat medically fragile individuals. 

Will an SLPA be able to conduct feeding and swallowing treatment in Kansas? 

Feeding and swallowing treatment is outside the SLPA scope of practice and must be performed by a licensed SLP.