Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee - Newark, NJ

Regulating Communication Health: Audiology and Speech Committee

The Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee, housed within the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs at 124 Halsey Street, is the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the professions of audiology and speech-language pathology in the state. This committee serves a vital public protection role by ensuring that the specialists who diagnose and treat hearing, balance, speech, and swallowing disorders are fully qualified and adhere to strict professional standards. Whether you are a parent seeking help for a child's speech delay or an adult requiring hearing aids, this board ensures the practitioner you visit is licensed and competent.

Licensing and Certification

The primary mandate of the Committee is to manage the licensure of professionals. It rigorously reviews the credentials of applicants to ensure they have met the Master's or Doctoral level educational requirements and have passed the necessary national examinations (such as the Praxis). The Committee issues licenses for:

• Audiologists: Specialists in hearing and balance disorders. Notably, licensed audiologists in NJ are now permitted to dispense hearing aids without a separate dispenser's license, simplifying the process for consumers.
• Speech-Language Pathologists: Professionals who treat speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders.

Consumer Protection

The Committee is empowered to investigate complaints filed by consumers against licensees. These complaints may involve allegations of professional misconduct, negligence, fraud, or unlicensed practice. If a violation of the state's laws or regulations is found, the Committee can take disciplinary action, ranging from fines and reprimands to the suspension or revocation of a license. This mechanism ensures accountability within the healthcare system and provides a recourse for patients who have received substandard care.

Staying Current

To maintain their license, professionals must engage in Continuing Education (CE). The Committee audits licensees to ensure they are keeping up with the latest advancements in their field, requiring specific credit hours during each biennial renewal period. This ensures that New Jersey residents receive care that reflects current best practices and scientific evidence.

Visiting the Board

The Committee operates out of the Division of Consumer Affairs building in downtown Newark. While the office is accessible for public board meetings, most administrative tasks—such as license renewals, address changes, and complaint filings—are most efficiently handled through the Division's online portal. Visitors to the physical location should be prepared for security screening, including bag checks and ID verification.