Overall description

In Portugal, a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) is a professional responsible for the assessment, diagnostic, prevention, treatment and scientific study of human communication and related disorders, as well as feeding and swallowing. This includes not only all functions associated with the comprehension and expression of the oral and written language but also other forms of non-verbal communication.

Organisation of SLT in the country

SLPs work in a variety of settings, such as: 

• Public and private hospitals

• Health care centers

• Therapeutic and rehabilitation centers
• National Health Service
• Public and private schools
• Early intervention teams
• Special centers for children with disabilities
• Private clinics
• Health care centers for the elderly
• Freelancing

Public obligation / private practise

Due to the fact that public authorities are obliged to provide the treatment any citizen may need, free of charge for the individual, there is no agreement with social security or insurance companies about reimbursement of speech and language therapy.

Over the last years few speech and language therapists (SLT) have established private practises. Clients/patients who choose to have therapy under private management will have to pay the full cost themselves.

License

All SLPs must be registered with the Health Professions Council in order to practice in Portugal.

Recognition of professional qualifications obtained abroad

In order to practice speech therapy in Portugal, all international SLPs must have their diplomas recognized by the Health Professions Council and must be fluent in written and oral Portuguese language.

The professional salary

SLPs’ salary varies according to the number of working hours, academic degree obtained and type of institution.

Professional association

Associação Portuguesa de Terapeutas da Fala (APTF, Portuguese Association of Speech Therapists) was founded in March 11^th of 1978 and is the only professional entity in Portugal that regulates the SLP profession.

For further information:

http://www.aptf.org/

Author / reference