Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Speech Pathology)

What is Allied Health?

Allied health covers a range of complementary health services to medicine. An Allied Health professional may be a:

• Speech pathologist
• Physiotherapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Acupuncturist
• Kinesiologist

Allied Health professionals usually have a number of Allied Health Assistants who help those professionals complete their day to day work.

What is Speech Pathology?

Speech Pathology is the science of helping people speak more effectively. Speech pathologists often work with children, teaching them to overcome lisps, stutters or other direct client care in order to help them communicate through speech, as well as in the aged care industry as an alternative specialisation option. Speech pathologists work all over Australia, from Victoria to Darwin

What is a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance?

A Cert IV is one step above a Certificate III, and the final step before moving into the realm of diplomas. They’re typically taught through TAFE in Australia. A Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance teaches you everything you need to know to start as a speech pathology assistant, physiotherapy assistant, occupational therapy assistant or other Allied Health professional. If you choose to specialise in speech pathology, you may complete your work placement in a speech pathologists office or school, or enrol in future studies in speech pathology.  During a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance you will need to complete a number of core units, as well as some elective units, which may include learning about:

• Community rehabilitation programs
• Mental health 
• Fitting of assistive equipment
• Maintenance of client health 
• HLTAHA001 Assist with an allied health program 
• HLTAAP002 Confirm physical health status
• CHCLEG003 Manage legal and ethical compliance
• HLTWHS002 Follow safe work practices for direct client care
• CHCCCS002 Assist with movement 
• HLTAID003 Provide first aid
• BSBMED301 Interpret and apply medical terminology appropriately (Australian)
• CHCCOM005 Communicate and work in health or community service
• HLTAAP001 Recognise healthy body systems
• CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people

Why should I study a Certificate IV in Allied Health (Speech Pathology)

Studying an HLT43015 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance is the first step into a career in the health industry. If you’re looking at becoming a speech pathologist, there are always options for recognition of prior learning (RPL) which means the study you did for your Certificate IV may allow for a credit transfer, meaning less study in the future. There are a number of options for part-time or full-time learning, as well as online study and face-to-face study options. International students should inquire with CRICOS before trying to enrol in a course.

For more information about tuition fees, alternatives like physiotherapy programs, entry requirements and more, enquire about a specific course listed above!