At Allegheny Alliance, we are committed to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by providing comprehensive, person-centered therapy services that enhance communication, social interaction, and swallowing safety. As a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), you will assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders to improve functional communication and daily living skills. Your role will align with Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) regulations, ensuring best practices in service delivery for individuals receiving waiver-funded supports.
Key Responsibilities
Comprehensive Assessment & Diagnosis
- Conduct speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing evaluations using standardized tools, clinical observations, and caregiver input.
- Assess individuals for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) needs and recommend appropriate communication devices and strategies.
- Formulate individualized, functional diagnoses that align with person-centered goals outlined in the Individual Support Plan (ISP).
Individualized Treatment Planning & Intervention
- Develop and implement evidence-based therapy plans tailored to the individual’s communication, cognitive, and swallowing needs.
- Provide speech sound production therapy, expressive and receptive language intervention, social communication training, fluency therapy, and cognitive-communication rehabilitation.
- Implement AAC interventions, training individuals and caregivers in device use and communication strategies.
- Address dysphagia (swallowing disorders) through safe feeding strategies, texture modifications, and mealtime management plans.
- Ensure that therapy promotes increased independence, self-advocacy, and community participation.
Education & Training for Individuals & Caregivers
- Provide training to families, caregivers, and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) on communication strategies, AAC implementation, and safe swallowing techniques.
- Educate individuals on self-advocacy skills, empowering them to express wants, needs, and preferences effectively.
- Offer feeding and swallowing education to support safe eating habits and reduce aspiration risks.
Collaboration & Consultation
- Work closely with Occupational Therapists (OTs), Physical Therapists (PTs), Behavioral Specialists, Support Coordinators, and educators to provide comprehensive, interdisciplinary care.
- Consult with school staff, vocational providers, and community organizations to ensure appropriate accommodations and communication supports in various environments.
- Advocate for individuals by helping them access assistive technology, community resources, and employment supports.
Progress Monitoring & Compliance
- Regularly assess progress using outcome measures and adjust therapy plans as needed.
- Maintain detailed documentation in accordance with ODP regulations, Medicaid billing guidelines, and HIPAA requirements.
- Participate in ISP meetings, providing input on communication goals and functional progress.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Licensure
- Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program.
- Current Pennsylvania Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) license or eligibility for licensure.
- Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
- CPR certification (required); additional specialty certifications in AAC, dysphagia, or neurogenic communication disorders preferred.
Experience & Skills
- Experience working with individuals with IDD in home, school, vocational, or community-based settings preferred.
- Knowledge of ODP-funded services, waiver programs, and ISP development.
- Strong clinical assessment, diagnostic, and intervention skills for speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders.
- Familiarity with AAC devices, sensory-based communication approaches, and mealtime management strategies.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills for working with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
- Ability to adapt therapy approaches to support individuals with complex needs.
Additional Requirements
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (as travel to community and residential sites may be required).
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Why Join Allegheny Alliance?
✅ Make an Impact – Empower individuals with IDD to communicate effectively and participate fully in their communities.
✅ Collaborative Team – Work with dedicated professionals in a supportive, person-centered environment.
✅ Professional Growth – Access training, mentorship, and continuing education in AAC, dysphagia, and IDD-focused therapy.
✅ Flexible Work Settings – Provide therapy in community-based, residential, and home environments.
Apply today to help individuals with IDD find their voice and live more independent, connected lives!
