Section 1399.170.15 - Requirements for the Supervision of the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant(a) The supervising speech-language pathologist (hereinafter called "supervisor") is responsible for designing and implementing a supervisory plan that protects client care and maintains the highest possible standards of quality. Treatment of the client remains the responsibility of the supervisor.(b) Any person registering a speech-language pathology assistant with the Board shall meet all of the following requirements:(1) Possess and maintain a current, active, and unrestricted California license as a speech-language pathologist as required in Section 2532 of the Code and Section 1399.160.3 of California Code of Regulations or may hold a current, active, and unrestricted professional clear, clear, or life clinical or rehabilitative services credential in language, speech and hearing, or speech-language pathology services credential issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, and have at least two years of full-time experience or 3,120 hours providing services as a licensed or credentialed speech-language pathologist. "Full-time experience" as used in this section means the individual works a minimum of thirty (30) hours per week for at least thirty-six (36) weeks in a calendar year.(2) Immediately notify the assistant of any disciplinary action, including revocation, suspension (even if stayed), probation terms, inactive license, or lapse in licensure, which affects the supervisor's ability or right to supervise.(3) Ensure that the extent, kind, and quality of the clinical work performed is consistent with the training and experience of the person being supervised and be accountable for the assigned tasks performed by the speech-language pathology assistant. The supervisor shall review client/patient records, monitor and evaluate the ability of the assistant to provide services to the particular clientele being treated at the setting where the service is being provided, and ensure compliance with all laws and regulations governing the practice of speech-language pathology.(4) Provide direct supervision that consists of on-site observation and guidance at least twenty (20) percent per week of the speech-language pathology assistant's work schedule for the first ninety (90) days following initial licensure. The supervisor shall maintain a record in the speech-language pathology assistant's personnel file that verifies that the speech-language pathology assistant meets the requirements in this subdivision.(5) Complete not less than six (6) hours of continuing professional development in supervision training prior to assuming responsibility as a supervisor, and three (3) hours in supervision training of continuing professional development every four (4) years thereafter. Continuing professional development training obtained by a Board-approved provider that meets the course content listed below may be applied towards the continuing professional development requirement for licensees set forth in Section 1399.160.3 of the California Code of Regulations. The content of such training shall include, but is not limited to:(A) Familiarity with supervision literature through reading assignments specified by course instructors;(B) Improving knowledge and understanding of the relationship between the speech-language pathologist and the assistant, and the relationship between the speech-language pathologist and the client;(C) Structuring to maximize supervision, including times and conditions of supervision sessions, problem solving ability, and implementing supervisor interventions within a range of supervisory modalities including live, videotape, audiotape, and case report methods;(D) Knowledge of contextual variables such as culture, gender, ethnicity, and economic issues; and(E) The practice of clinical speech-language pathology including the mandated reporting laws and knowledge of ethical and legal issues.(6) Maintain records of course completion in supervision training for a period of two years from the speech-language pathology assistant's renewal date.(7) Review with the speech-language pathology assistant the laws and regulations pertaining to supervision and practice of speech-language pathology assistants.(8) Develop a plan for the speech-language pathology assistant to complete twelve (12) hours of continuing professional development every two years through state or regional conferences, workshops, formal in-service presentations, independent study programs, or any combination of these concerning communication disorders.(9) Provide the speech-language pathology assistant with a plan for how to handle emergencies.(10) Assume responsibility for all services provided to clients by the speech-language pathology assistant that is being supervised.(c) The supervisor shall provide to the Board within thirty (30) business days from the start date of supervision a signed "Responsibility Statement for Supervisors of a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant" (DCA-SLPAHADB-SPA-110, Rev. 01/2024), which is hereby incorporated by reference. This form verifies the supervisor's compliance with the requirements set forth in this article. The supervisor shall provide a copy of the completed form to the assistant within forty-five (45) business days from the commencement date of supervision.Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 16, § 1399.170.15
Note: Authority cited: Sections 2531.95 and 2538.1, Business and Professions Code. Reference: Sections 2530.2 and 2538.1, Business and Professions Code.
Note: Authority cited: Sections 2531.95 and 2538.1(a), Business and Professions Code. Reference: Sections 2530.2(f), 2538.1(b)(5), (6), (7) and (9), Business and Professions Code.
1. New section filed 4-10-2001; operative 4-10-2001 pursuant to Government Code section 11343.4(Register 2001, No. 15).
2. Change without regulatory effect amending subsection (b)(2) filed 10-28-2015 pursuant to section 100, title 1, California Code of Regulations (Register 2015, No. 44).
3. Amendment of section and NOTE filed 3-19-2024; operative 7/1/2024 (Register 2024, No. 12).