Currently, it is acceptable for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants, COTAs, and Physical Therapy Assistants, PTAs, to become licensed and provide direct therapy under the supervision of fully licensed practitioners. However, it isn't acceptable for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, SLPAs, to practice.  All three require at least an Associate's degree and supervision. It is becoming difficult to hire Speech-Language Pathologists, especially in a school system. Allowing Speech-Language Pathologist Assistants to become licensed in Virginia and to provide direct services would be of great benefit to better serve our patients.