Speech pathologists are trained to help people who have trouble communicating. This might be because of difficulties making sounds or using words to convey ideas, stuttering, voice problems like hoarseness, or birth conditions such as cleft lip and palate. They can also help people who have dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing food and drink. Speech pathologists work in a range of settings including hospitals, schools, community health centres, and private practice. Some speech pathologists have specialised areas of interest like autism spectrum disorder, hearing impairment or cerebral palsy. A speech pathologist can help to find the best way for a person to communicate. This might be through improved speech, signs and symbols, or assisted communication methods.