What is a Communicative Disorders Assistant Anyway?

Communicative Disorders Assistants (CDAs) are formally trained support personnel who assist with the delivery of speech-language pathology and/or audiology services.

CDAs work under the supervision of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) or audiologists.

Education:

In addition to an undergraduate degree or post-secondary diploma, CDAs hold a post-graduate certificate from a recognized Communicative Disorders Assistant college program.

During their formal training, CDAs complete coursework in speech, language and hearing development, as well as communication disorders that can impact people of all ages.

Employment:

Just like SLPs and audiologists, CDAs work in a variety of treatment settings from hospitals and schools to private clinics and government programs.

CDAs are qualified to carry out a wide range of clinical tasks including: providing therapy to target speech and/or language goals as set by the supervising SLP, creating materials for use in therapy, home programs and classrooms, and conducting speech, language and hearing screenings.

Professional Association:

CDAs in Canada have their own professional association – Communicative Disorders Assistant Association of Canada (CDAAC, for short).

This association provides continuing education and networking opportunities for CDAs, advocates for the CDA profession, and educates the public on topics related to speech, language and hearing.

To read more about CDAs, you can visit:

• Ontario Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
• Communicative Disorders Assistant Association of Canada
• Ontario Colleges

At Aurora Speech Clinic, we have several wonderful CDAs providing therapy under SLP supervision.

Please let us know if you have any questions or if you or your family member would benefit from our services!