Speech therapy - what it is and what it's not

I often get this question from teachers & parents - "Well, why haven't you fixed him/her yet?" This question can be especially frustrating for SLPs. Some problems we deal with are fixable, for example, mild articulation delays/disorders. Some problems are more complex, and we are excited to see any amount of progress. Often with language difficulties that are concomitant with with other problems such as autism or cerebral palsy, we look toward mastering the next developmental skill. So, bottom line, what is our goal? To see our students make as much progress as possible. Can we always "fix" them? As much as it hurts me to say this, no. I am definitely a "fixer", which is why I believe I was drawn to this field. I am thrilled when I can "fix" a problem. It is what keeps me from getting burned out (especially those who you think will be slow to make progess but master goals quickly). I do wish I could wave a magic wand, but I just haven't found it yet.