Finding the right therapist: Where Can You Find My Qualifications, Competencies, and Credentials?

You may have noticed lots of titles at the end of my name, but what do these mean? In this week's chapter, let’s take a look, demystify and break it all down.

You may notice on my website and email sign-off (if you’ve ever emailed me or received my newsletter), my name looks something like this:

• Stephanie Kerr-GuestSpeech & Language Therapist, BSc Hons, mRCSLT, mASLTIP, HCPC Registered

The first bit is my name, and this is the name you would use to search for me on professional databases.

As an off-piste tidbit, when I married, I adopted a double-barrelled name, adding my husband's surname to my maiden name. It seemed like a great idea at the time but has caused a few headaches—though I wouldn’t change it! 😊

Anyway, let's step away from my off topic interruption; back to the titles and letters:

• Speech & Language Therapist

This is my professional title, which is legally protected.

• BSc Hons

This stands for Bachelor of Science with Honours, which shows I completed an undergraduate degree focused on diagnosing and supporting people with speech, language, and communication difficulties.

• mRCSLT

This is the abbreviation for my Membership of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). While not mandatory, it reflects my commitment to personal professional development and contributing to the wider profession.

• mASLTIP

The "m" stands for Member, and ASLTIP is the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice. This body supports therapists working independently, like myself. Although membership isn’t mandatory, I choose to be part of ASLTIP to contribute to the community and stay connected with independent practice developments. You can find me listed on the ASLTIP directory.

• HCPC Registered

This means I’m registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). It’s the gold standard, ensuring I have the necessary qualifications and skills to practice as a speech and language therapist. You should only work with a therapist who is actively registered with the HCPC.

I also break down these titles in my FAQ page.

Next week, I’ll be continuing to explore how to find the right therapist and showing you how and where you can check the qualifications and credentials I’ve talked about today

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We all have our unique communication style. I am powered by dyslexia, and I have big heartfelt stories to share that might include small typos and errors. I'd love for you to embrace and own your own unique communication style too.