American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

**About the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)** The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association for [234,000 members, certificate holders, and affiliates](https://www.asha.org/research/memberdata/) who are audiologists; speech-language pathologists; speech, language, and hearing scientists; audiology and speech-language pathology assistants; and students. Audiologists specialize in preventing and assessing hearing and balance disorders as well as providing audiologic treatment, including hearing aids. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) identify, assess, and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders. Learn about the [differences between professional associations and unions](https://www.asha.org/about/professional-associations-and-unions/). **Vision** Making effective communication, a human right, accessible and achievable for all. **Mission** We are a dynamic community of audiologists, speech-language pathologists, scientists, assistants, and other affiliated professionals, dedicated to transforming lives. Through?partnership and?collaboration,?we advance science, foster?excellence in education and professional practice, establish?standards, and advocate for accessible and quality care for?all.? **Core Values** - We are two professions, with a shared purpose, that are stronger together. - Scientifically based professional practice advances the discipline of human communication sciences and disorders. - Collaboration,?diversity, equity, inclusion, innovation, and integrity are essential and indispensable in our work. - We are member-centric and people-focused at our core.