How Speech-Language Therapists and Audiologistss Can Help You
Communication and hearing are fundamental to connecting with the world around us. Whether you're concerned about a child's speech development, experiencing hearing difficulties, or recovering from a stroke, South Africa's speech-language therapists and audiologists are here to help.
Not sure which professional you need? Read on to understand what each specialist does and how they can support you or your loved ones.
- Speech-Language Therapists (Speech Therapists)
What They Do
Speech-language therapists assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders. They work with people of all ages to help them speak clearly, understand language, communicate effectively, and swallow safely.
Who They Help
Babies and toddlers with feeding difficulties or delayed speech development
Children who struggle with pronunciation, stuttering, or understanding instructions
School-aged children with reading and writing challenges linked to language
Adults recovering from stroke, brain injury, or living with neurological conditions
People with voice problems (hoarseness, vocal strain)
Anyone with swallowing difficulties that affect eating and drinking safely
Common Conditions Treated
Speech sound disorders (difficulty pronouncing words clearly)
Language delays and disorders (trouble understanding or using words)
Stuttering (fluency disorders)
Voice disorders (chronic hoarseness, vocal nodules)
Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)
Communication challenges related to autism, cerebral palsy, or Down syndrome
Speech and language problems after stroke or head injury
Accent modification (for professional or personal reasons)
When to See a Speech-Language Therapist
Your child isn't talking by age 2 or is difficult to understand
Your child struggles to follow instructions or express their needs
You or a loved one has difficulty swallowing food or liquids
Speech has changed after an illness, injury, or surgery
Persistent hoarseness or voice strain affects daily life
Stuttering impacts confidence or communication
- Audiologists
What They Do
Audiologists are healthcare professionals who specialise in hearing and balance disorders. They assess hearing function, diagnose hearing loss, fit and manage hearing devices, and provide rehabilitation to help people hear and communicate better.
Who They Help
Newborns and infants needing hearing screening and early intervention
Children with hearing loss affecting speech and learning
Adults experiencing hearing difficulties in conversations or noisy environments
Older adults with age-related hearing loss
People with tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)
Anyone with balance or dizziness problems
Workers exposed to occupational noise needing hearing protection and monitoring
Common Conditions Assessed and Treated
Hearing loss (congenital, age-related, noise-induced, sudden)
Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or humming sounds in the ears)
Balance disorders and vertigo
Ear infections affecting hearing
Processing difficulties (trouble understanding speech in noise)
Ear wax management
Custom hearing protection for musicians, industrial workers, swimmers
Services ProvidedComprehensive hearing assessments (adults and children)
Newborn hearing screening
Hearing aid selection, fitting, and ongoing management
Cochlear implant assessment and mapping
Tinnitus management programs
Balance and dizziness assessments
Custom hearing protection and earplugs
Hearing conservation programs for workplaces
When to See an Audiologist
You or your child didn't pass a hearing screening
You frequently ask people to repeat themselves
You struggle to hear conversations in restaurants or group settings
Family members complain the TV volume is too loud
You experience ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in your ears
You have dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems
You've been exposed to loud noise and notice hearing changes
You want to prevent hearing damage (custom ear protection)
- Hearing Aid Acousticians
What They Do
Hearing aid acousticians are specialists trained in selecting, fitting, and maintaining hearing aids and assistive listening devices. They focus on ensuring you get the most appropriate hearing technology for your lifestyle and hearing needs, with ongoing support and adjustments.
Who They Help
Adults with hearing loss needing hearing aid devices
People seeking affordable hearing solutions and device maintenance
Anyone wanting hearing aid repairs, adjustments, or upgrades
Individuals needing assistive listening devices for TV, phone, or specific situations
Services ProvidedHearing assessments for hearing aid fitting
Hearing aid selection and recommendations based on lifestyle
Precise hearing aid fitting and programming
Ongoing adjustments and fine-tuning
Hearing aid repairs and maintenance
Custom ear moulds
Assistive listening devices (TV streamers, amplified phones)
Battery supply and accessories
Hearing aid cleaning and servicing
When to See a Hearing Aid Acoustician
An audiologist has recommended hearing aids and you want fitting options
Your current hearing aids need adjustment, repair, or replacement
You want a second opinion on hearing aid options
You need ongoing hearing aid maintenance and support
You need accessories or assistive devices to complement your hearing aids
The Difference Between Audiologists and Hearing Aid Acousticians
Both professionals can assess hearing and fit hearing aids. Audiologists have broader diagnostic capabilities including balance testing, cochlear implants, and medical audiology. Hearing aid acousticians specialise specifically in hearing aid technology and fitting. Many people see an audiologist for initial diagnosis and may work with either professional for hearing aid fitting and ongoing care.
Finding the Right Professional for You
All SASLHA members are registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
How to Choose
Search our member directory by location, specialisation, or language
Check their areas of expertise - many professionals specialise in specific age groups or conditions
Contact them directly to discuss your needs and ask about:
Experience with your specific concern
Assessment and treatment approaches
Fees and medical aid coverage
Appointment availability
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Discussion of your concerns and medical history
Assessment using specialised tests appropriate for your age and condition
Clear explanation of findings in language you understand
Recommendations for treatment, therapy, or devices if needed
Treatment plan outlining goals, frequency, and expected duration
Questions answered - don't hesitate to ask anything!
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're seeking help for yourself, your child, or a family member, South Africa's speech-language therapists, audiologists, and hearing aid acousticians are ready to support your communication and hearing health journey.