Are you someone who can’t sit still? Dream of a new city every week? We have good news for you: SLP travel jobs offer speech language pathologists the chance to take short-term assignments in a variety of locations. These roles are perfect for those looking to combine their professional work with the excitement of travel.
In this article, we explore the different types of SLP travel jobs, the benefits they bring, and how you can qualify and find the best opportunities in the field of SLP travel jobs. Whether you’re seeking adventure or new professional experiences, a travel SLP job can provide both professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Key Takeaways
- Travel SLP jobs allow speech-language pathologists to combine their profession with travel, offering unique experiences in diverse environments and patient populations.
- These roles provide significant flexibility, with temporary assignments that enhance career opportunities and often come with competitive salaries, sometimes 20% higher than non-traveling positions (Tailored Healthcare Staffing).
- The demand for SLPs is projected to grow (Bureau of Labor Statistics), particularly in states like Texas and New York, which offer robust job opportunities and favorable compensation packages.
- Many employers offer flexible positions across many different cities, one of which is Coral Care. At Coral Care you do the work you love on your terms. You set your availability and travel radius, and they handle all the rest.
What are SLP Travel Jobs?
Speech language pathologists, or SLPs, have the opportunity to take on travel roles that offer flexibility and variety in their work environments. These travel jobs typically involve temporary assignments ranging from 8 to 13 weeks (Nomad Health), allowing SLPs to work in different locations and settings while enjoying flexible schedules. Recruitment agencies support travel SLPs with tailored opportunities and round-the-clock assistance during their assignments.
Despite the temporary nature of these jobs, travel SLP positions offer a similar level of job security to traditional roles, making them an appealing choice for many in the field. Whether you’re interested in working in medical facilities, schools, teletherapy, or in-home positions, travel SLP jobs provide a fulfilling career path with the added benefit of exploring new destinations.
Top SLP Travel Job Opportunities
The biggest draw to travel SLP jobs for most is the unique opportunity to combine their passion for speech therapy with a love for travel. These roles are perfect for professionals who enjoy new experiences and want to broaden their careers by working in various environments and with diverse patient populations.
Working as a travel speech language pathologist allows you to enhance your career objectives in ways that a traditional job might not. Travel assignments offer the adventure of exploring new places while providing invaluable experience to advance your career. Moreover, you get to learn from and work with some of the best specialists in the country, or in the world! The diverse environments and patient populations you’ll encounter can significantly enrich your professional skills and knowledge.
However, if you’re looking for the flexibility to travel whenever you’d like but don’t want to permanently hop from city to city, there are also SLP jobs that allow you the flexibility to travel, like Coral Care.
Coral Care offers SLPs the opportunity to do what they love on their terms across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Texas. The practice matches SLPs with patients across a specified travel range, offering the support of a full clinic while allowing for the flexibility and freedom of a private practice. No more worrying about recruiting patients, scheduling, billing, or insurance denying payouts, Coral Care works with your schedule, finds you patients, and pays you for every session, every time.
Benefits of Being a Travel SLP
In addition to the aforementioned draws to being a travel SLP, these positions offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing speech language pathologists to choose where and how long they want to work. This flexibility means you can take on assignments in locations that interest you, whether it’s a bustling city or a serene rural area. Additionally, working with agencies like Therapy Travelers or Coral Care enables SLPs to continue their clinical careers while exploring new destinations.
The demand for speech language pathologist jobs is projected to grow by 18% by 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, highlighting the significant need for professionals in this field. Regions with high populations and advanced healthcare systems, such as Texas and New York City, have a greater demand for travel speech language pathologists. This high demand translates to more job opportunities and the potential for career advancement.
Another notable benefit is the financial aspect. Travel SLP jobs often offer extra income, which can lead to a better work-life balance and more time off between assignments. This additional income allows SLPs to enjoy their off-time more fully, whether it’s traveling further or spending quality time with loved ones.
Types of SLP travel jobs
Travel SLP positions encompass a wide range of settings, providing speech language pathologists with opportunities to work in clinical environments, schools, private practices, and through teletherapy. Each setting offers unique experiences and challenges, allowing SLPs to develop a diverse skill set and adapt to different patient needs.
Let’s explore these settings in more detail:
Clinical settings
In clinical settings, travel SLPs are responsible for evaluating and treating various speech, language, and communication disorders, as well as swallowing difficulties (Mayo Clinic). These professionals develop treatment programs, train caregivers, and monitor patient progress, ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive care.
Travel SLPs can work in diverse clinical settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private clinics. Whether you want to be in sunny California, rural Kansas, or the bustling streets of Boston, there is always a need for SLPs.
The variety of clinical settings, from hospitals to in-home visits, allows SLPs to gain experience in different healthcare environments, enhancing their clinical competence. Not only do you get to choose where you work as a travel SLP, but also how and for whom you work.
School settings
One of the popular places for SLPs to work is within school districts. This is because over half of the SLPs in the country work in schools (ASHA), focusing on issues such as developmental delays and language disorders. In school settings, travel speech-language pathologists play a critical role in providing essential services to students, helping them overcome communication challenges and succeed academically. The school setting is particularly rewarding as it allows SLPs to make a significant impact on children’s lives.
Teletherapy
Teletherapy is an emerging field that allows speech therapists to provide services remotely, expanding access to therapy for patients regardless of location. This flexibility enables therapists to offer increased scheduling options and work with a wider range of clients. It also reduces travel time for therapists, allowing them to use their working hours more productively.
This method of speech therapy is particularly beneficial for those who may have difficulty accessing traditional services due to geographical or mobility constraints. However, there can be difficulties with teletherapy that may lead some SLPs to prefer in person work. An option for patients who have a hard time traveling to clinics, is for SLPs to travel to them, and they will often get paid quite competitively to do so!
Traveling to homes
Traveling to patients’ homes is another dynamic aspect of travel SLP jobs. When working with organizations like Coral Care, travel SLPs bring necessary materials for evaluations or treatments directly to clients’ homes to deliver clinic-quality care in-home.
At Coral Care, providers can establish their availability and preferred travel distances for in-home appointments. This flexibility allows SLPs to manage their schedules effectively while still providing high-quality care to their patients.
No matter where you decide to work, it’s essential to consider that setting a limited travel radius can reduce the number of accessible clients. On the other hand, having a flexible schedule can increase the number of patients you’re able to see, thereby increasing your earning potential significantly!
How to qualify for travel SLP jobs
If a flexible schedule, the ability to see new places on a monthly basis, and the opportunity to improve lives all over the country sounds appealing to you, then it is important to make sure your qualifications and credentials are in line. Most importantly, you need specific educational background, licenses, and certifications - all of which we dive into below.
Educational requirements
Travel speech-language pathologists always need a master’s degree from an accredited program. Additionally, completing a clinical fellowship is always necessary for certification and employment. During the fellowship, SLPs gain hands-on experience under a licensed professionals’ supervision, crucial for developing clinical competence.
Before obtaining licensure, speech-language pathologists are always required to complete a specific number of supervised practice hours (Massachusetts Government). Many employers prefer hiring SLPs who have at least one year of clinical experience, as this experience indicates a higher level of readiness to handle the responsibilities of a travel SLP job.
Licensure and certification
State-specific licenses are mandatory for travel SLPs to practice legally in their chosen states (SPGP). Licensure requirements vary by state, so it is essential for SLPs to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations of the state(s) where they plan to work. This ensures compliance and avoids any legal issues during assignments.
Beyond state licensure, additional certifications may be necessary depending on the travel job’s specific demands. These certifications can enhance an SLP’s qualifications and make them more competitive candidates for high-demand positions.
Finding the best travel SLP agencies
Finding the right travel SLP agency is crucial for a successful career. Not all agencies specialize in placing speech-language pathology, so thorough research is necessary. Reading reviews and testimonials from other SLPs can help assess the reputation of an agency and ensure it meets your professional needs.
Flexibility and adaptability are key, as travel SLPs may encounter varied workflows and documentation systems. Inquiring about the orientation and onboarding process can provide insight into the level of support you’ll receive at the start of your assignment.
While not a “travel SLP agency”, Coral Care is an alternative to traditional travel SLP jobs, granting SLPs the flexibility to choose where and when they work. With Coral Care, you can work on your terms, enjoying a schedule that works for you, whether it’s 5 or 20 hours a week. The platform offers a competitive compensation package, including payment for every session and free credentialing, scheduling, and billing support.
Salary expectations for travel SLPs
Travel SLPs can expect to earn salaries that are often 20% higher than those in non-traveling positions (Tailored Healthcare Staffing), a reason for many SLPs to consider working as a travel SLP in the first place. The average weekly salary for a travel speech language pathologist is $1,867 (ZipRecruiter), which reflects the premium benefits and top salaries offered in these roles.
Positions where SLPs travel to client homes also pay handsomely. Coral Care, for example, is dedicated to offering competitive rates to all providers, offering SLPs rates of $120 for initial patient evaluations, and then $80 for recurring patient sessions.
Overall, several factors will ultimately influence the salary for travel SLPs. For instance, SLPs with more experience and higher education levels typically have access to higher-paying positions. The more experience and unique skills you can offer as a SLP will lead to more opportunities and higher paid assignments.
Top locations for travel SLP jobs
Texas and New York City are two prime locations for travel SLP jobs. These areas offer numerous opportunities due to their high demand for speech-language pathology services and attractive compensation packages.
Here’s what makes these locations stand out.
Texas
Texas has a significant demand for travel SLPs due to its rapid population growth and diverse demographics. Major cities like Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas offer numerous opportunities for travel SLPs, providing competitive salaries and varied work experiences. This makes Texas an ideal location for professional development and career advancement.
Travel SLPs in Texas can enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to work in a variety of settings, from urban hospitals to rural clinics. The state’s growing healthcare demand ensures a steady flow of job opportunities, making it a top choice for many SLPs.
New York City
In New York City, travel SLPs can earn an average weekly salary of $2,105 (Vivian Health), which is notably above the national average. The city’s high demand for travel speech-language pathologists makes it an attractive option for those in the field. Working in NYC offers unique opportunities for professional growth and cultural enrichment, enhancing the overall experience for SLPs.
New York City provides a vibrant environment where travel SLPs can engage with a diverse patient population and network with other healthcare professionals. Considering the strong demand and high compensation, SLPs should actively seek out travel assignments in this bustling metropolis to maximize their career potential.
Ready to be a traveling Speech-Language Pathologist?
Travel SLP jobs offer a rewarding blend of professional development and personal adventure. Speech language pathologists can enjoy flexible schedules, explore new locations, and earn competitive salaries while making a significant impact on their patients’ lives. Whether working in clinical settings, in schools, or in homes, travel SLPs gain invaluable experience and broaden their horizons. By understanding the qualifications needed, finding the right agencies, and preparing adequately, you can embark on a fulfilling career as a travel speech language pathologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is continuing education important for physical therapists?
Continuing education is essential for physical therapists to maintain their licensure, stay current with emerging practices, and refine their skills in specialized areas. This commitment ultimately ensures high-quality patient care.
What are the benefits of joining professional organizations like APTA MA?
Joining professional organizations like APTA MA provides valuable networking opportunities, access to job boards, and expert resume reviews, all of which can significantly enhance your professional development and career prospects.
How can I apply for physical therapy jobs in Boston?
To apply for physical therapy jobs in Boston, ensure you prepare thoroughly for interviews using the STAR method, have examples of your achievements ready, dress professionally, and arrive early. This preparation will greatly enhance your chance of success.
What is the average salary for a physical therapist in Boston?
The average annual salary for physical therapists in Boston is approximately $115,201. This figure reflects the current market conditions for this profession in the area.
What qualifications are needed to become a physical therapist in Boston, MA?
To become a physical therapist in Boston, you must obtain a Doctoral degree from an APTA-accredited program, pass the NPTE, and complete a criminal background check. Meeting these qualifications is essential for practicing in this profession.
What makes Coral Care a unique employer for physical therapists?
Coral Care stands out as a unique employer for physical therapists by fostering a supportive environment, managing administrative tasks, and offering a flexible schedule that enables therapists to prioritize patient care effectively. This focus on work-life balance and streamlined processes enhances job satisfaction and productivity.
How can I stay informed about new physical therapy job openings?
Joining a talent community is an effective strategy to stay updated on new physical therapy job openings. This proactive approach allows you to receive timely notifications and networking opportunities.
What are some benefits of working as a physical therapist?
Working as a physical therapist offers competitive pay, comprehensive health benefits, and flexible work schedules, and extensive professional development opportunities. Physical therapists are also in high demand in many areas, making it a rewarding and strategic career choice.
What are the educational requirements to become a physical therapist?
To become a physical therapist, you need to obtain a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and successfully pass a state licensure exam. Meeting these educational requirements is essential for entering this rewarding profession.
What are the typical settings where physical therapists can work?
Physical therapists typically work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, home health care, and educational institutions. These diverse environments allow them to provide a wide range of services to meet patients' needs.
What are the top locations for travel SLP jobs?
Texas and New York City are top locations for travel SLP jobs, offering high demand, competitive salaries, and ample professional development opportunities.
What are the benefits of being a travel SLP?
Being a travel SLP offers flexibility in assignments, competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work in diverse environments with a variety of patient populations. These advantages can significantly enhance both your career and personal experiences.
What are the salary expectations for travel SLPs?
Travel SLPs can generally expect to earn about 20% more than their non-traveling counterparts, with an average weekly salary around $1,867, influenced by factors such as experience, location, and facility type.
How do I find the best travel SLP agencies?
To find the best travel SLP agencies, research those that specialize in placing SLPs, read reviews and testimonials, and compare their benefits. Inquiring about the orientation process will also help you gauge the level of support provided.
What qualifications do I need to become a travel speech language pathologist?
To become a travel speech-language pathologist, you need a bachelor's degree, a master's degree in speech-language pathology, and state-specific licensure, along with completing a clinical fellowship and gaining supervised practice hours. These qualifications will ensure you are well-prepared for the role.
What is the job outlook for SLPs in Boston?
The job outlook for SLPs in Boston is positive, with a projected growth rate of 18% nationally in employment from 2023 to 2033. This indicates a strong demand for speech-language pathologists.
How should I respond to a job offer as a SLP?
To respond to a job offer, request a written offer to clarify details, review it carefully, and, if necessary, respectfully negotiate terms. This approach ensures you have a clear understanding and can address any concerns.
What should I include in my resume for part-time SLP roles?
To enhance your resume for part-time SLP roles, include relevant experience, quantifiable achievements, and any volunteer work, while incorporating industry-specific keywords to optimize for automated screening systems. This approach will help you stand out to potential employers.
What places are hiring part-time SLPs?
Coral Care is an emerging leader and a great opportunity for those in search of part-time SLP work. No more worrying about patients, scheduling, billing, or insurance denying payouts, Coral Care finds you patients, and pays you for every session, every time.
What are the benefits of working part-time as an SLP?
Working part-time as a Speech-Language Pathologist offers flexibility, reduces stress, allows for continued education, and provides the opportunity to pursue other interests. These advantages can significantly enhance both personal and professional well-being.
How can I optimize my job search for part-time SLP positions?
To optimize your job search for part-time SLP positions, focus on using targeted keywords. Customize your resume for each application, and utilize specialized job boards to find the most relevant listings. This approach will enhance your chances of securing a position that fits your needs.
