A speech-language pathology assistant applicant who does not have the required clinical hours must obtain them through which plan?

The correct answer is the Clinical Deficiency Plan. This plan is designed specifically for applicants who do not meet the required clinical hour requirements necessary for certification in speech-language pathology. The objective is to outline targeted experiences that will help the applicant acquire the needed competencies through direct supervision and practical exposure to actual clinical settings.

Through the Clinical Deficiency Plan, the applicant will engage in activities that focus on addressing the specific gaps in their clinical training. This often involves a structured approach that includes identified goals, the type of clinical experiences needed, as well as timelines for completion.

While the other options may involve some aspects of clinical training or observation, they do not specifically cater to instances where an applicant must make up for a deficiency in clinical hours. The Clinical Observation Plan might emphasize observation rather than hands-on experience, and the Assistant Development Plan could relate more broadly to professional growth without focusing on filling specific gaps in clinical practice. The Clinical Experience Plan may imply a more general set of experiences without addressing the deficiencies identified in the applicant’s training. Therefore, for those needing to fulfill clinical hour requirements, the Clinical Deficiency Plan is the appropriate and structured pathway.